Pilgrim Nazarene Church, Pleasant Grove, AL

February 2012 calendar

2012-01-23T13:10:00.000-06:00

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2011-12-31T10:22:00.002-06:00

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Sunday School Lesson for March 6, 2011

2011-03-01T19:54:00.004-06:00

(Sorry for the long absence!)

Here is the topic for this Sunday's lesson:

"What is God Like?"

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 145:1-20

Key verse:

"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable." Psalm 145:3

~Things to consider~

Background Scriptures:

Psalms 5:4-6; 33:6-11; 90:1,2; 147:3-8; Isaiah 40:12-15; Jeremiah 32:17-24

Points of Interest:

The Greatness of God (Psalm 145:1-6)

The Attributes of God (Psalm 145:7-10)

The Reign of God (Psalm 145:11-13)

The Righteousness of God (Psalm 145:17-20)

Devotional Reading:

Psalm 139:1-10

Adult Sunday School lesson for March 14, 2010

2010-03-12T10:30:00.002-06:00

We are so thankful to the Lord for how he has touched our teacher! God has so miraculously placed his hand on Bro. Ferguson, giving him a speedy recovery from the heart surgery. Thank the Lord!

Recently we made a change in Sunday School Material--

The topic for this Sunday's lesson is: "The Christian Way of Life"

The Key Verse is: "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Colossians 3:17

The Scripture Lesson is found in:

Colossians 3:5-17

Points for consideration:

I. Put Off the Old (Col. 3:5-9)
II. Put On the New (Col. 3:10-14)
III. Live a Christian Life (Col. 3:15-17)

I trust these lessons will continue to bless your heart.

Adult Sunday School Lesson for Februay 28, 2010

2010-02-23T19:47:00.002-06:00

The topic for this Sunday's lesson is

"Sin and Repentance"

The Scripture Lesson is found in 2 Chronicles 33:9-16

The Golden Text is, "If we confess our sins, he is faithul and just to forgive us ur sis, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I John 1:9

Daily Devotional Readings:
Monday - Judah's Worst King - 2 Chronicles 33:1-9
Tuesday - A Tardy Repentance - 2 Chronicles 33:10-20
Wednesday - Reaping the Harvest - Galatians 6:7-10
Thursday - A Call to Repentance - Isaiah 1:10-20
Friday - Blessedness of the Forgiven - Psalm 32:1-5
Saturday - Not Forsaken - Psalm 94:11-22
Sunday - Reproving in Love - Proverbs 3:7-12

Notes of Praise

2010-02-23T19:29:00.002-06:00

On the sidebar, you may have noted a few prayer requests from last week. I would like to report that those that underwent surgery came through with great success! We are rejoicing with the Fergusons and Beaches that Bro. Ferguson's by-pass surgery was very successful! Praise the Lord! The doctors were amazed that he was in such good shape physically. He is home from the hospital now, and on the road to recovery.

Sis. Ann had oral surgery last Tuesday. Thank the Lord, this was also a success. How good it is that the family of God can band together to pray for the needs of each other with confidence that our prayers are heard and answered! What a mighty God we serve!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-12T12:01:00.001-06:00

O Love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in Thee.

I give Thee back the life I owe, That in Thine ocean depth its flow

May richer, fuller be.

O Light that followest all my way, I yield my flick'ring torch to Thee.

My heart restores its borrowed ray, That in Thy sunshine's blaze its day

May brighter, fairer be.

O Joy that seekest me through pain, I cannot close my heart to Thee.

I trace the rainbow through the rain, And feel the promise is no vain

That morn shall tearless be.

O Cross that liftest up my head, I dare not ask to fly from Thee.

I lay in dust life's glory dead, And from the ground there blossoms red

Life that shall endless be.

George Matheson

Adult Sunday School Lesson for February 14, 2010

2010-02-07T21:30:00.001-06:00

The topic for next Sunday's lesson is

"God's Man Dies Victoriously"

The Scripture lesson is found in Deuteronomy 32:44-52

The Golden Text is, "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord...their works do follow them." Revelation 14:13

Daily Bible Readings:

Monday - The Song of Moses - Deuteronomy 32:1-43
Tuesday - Moses Views Canaan - Deuteronomy 34:1-8
Wednesday - The Story of Moses - Hebrews 11:23-28
Thursday - Spiritual Victory - Romans 8:35-39
Friday - The Victor's Shout - I Corinthians 15:53-58
Saturday - Victory in Death - II Timothy 4:6-8
Sunday - Moses Transfigured - Matthew 17:1-8

Special Prayer Request

2010-02-06T18:22:00.004-06:00

Hello, Church Family,
I am coming to you with yet another prayer request. It seems Bro. "Dad" Ferguson had a mild heart arrest while working in the yard. He will be having tests run next Tuesday on the treadmill and all that goes along with that. In the mean time, he is battling more than ordinary fatigue. Pray that God will give him the strength both now and next week.

Praise notes

2010-02-03T18:47:00.002-06:00

Just a quick update on Mom Snodgrass. She came through surgery beautifully. The doctor was very pleased, and she is home resting comfortably. I know she will appreciate your continued prayers that the recovery process will continue to go smoothly. Thank you so much ~ we have a wonderful church family!!

Adult Sunday School Lesson for February 7, 2010

2010-01-31T22:43:00.000-06:00

The topic for this coming Sunday's Lesson is

"The New Home In Canaan"

The Golden Text - "Thou shalt bless the Lord thy God for the good land which he hath given thee." Deuteronomy 8:10

The Scripture Lesson - Deuteronomy 6:3-15

Daily Bible Readings:
Monday - Walk in His Ways - Deuteronomy 3:11-20
Tuesday - Our Chief Duty - Deuteronomy 6:1-9

Wednesday - Remembering the Lord of Life - Deuteronomy 6:10-25

Thursday - Basis of a Happy Home - Psalm 128

Friday - True to Home Training - II Timothy 3:14-17

Saturday - God's Love for the Home - Deuteronomy 11:13-28

Sunday - God Protects His People - Psalm 121

Special Service Sunday Evening

2010-01-28T12:00:00.001-06:00

We are looking forward to continuing our "5th Sunday Fellowship" with our Brothers and Sisters in Christ from Tuscaloosa's Greater Faith Tabernacle and Jasper's Pilgrim Nazarene Church. The service will be held at the Jasper PNC this Sunday evening at 6:00 pm. This is a wonderful evening of worship with special singing, testimonies and good preaching. This gathering has been such an encouragement and blessing to our congregation. You will not want to miss this service, and if you need directions to the church in Jasper, leave a comment to this post, or call our pastor, Bro. Jones (205) 637-7540.

A Visit from Penn View Bible Institute

2010-01-27T22:14:00.002-06:00

We were so happy to host the Ladies Trio from PVBI in a special service last Saturday night. The trio consists of Susanna Shafer, Amy Loper and Rachel Clough with Michelle Durkee accompanying on the piano. These ladies surely blessed our hearts with their vibrant blend of voices and their unmistakable love for the Lord. It is so refreshing to see young people serving God with all their hearts.

Adult Sunday School for January 31, 2010

2010-01-26T22:12:00.000-06:00

The topic for this Sunday's Lesson is

"Results of Yielding to Temptation"

Golden Text: "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." James 1:8

The Scripture Lesson: NUMBERS 24:10-19

Daily Bible Readings:
Tuesday - God Speaks to Balaam - Numbers 22:8-14
Wednesday - The Enemy Offers Bribes - Numbers 22:15-18
Thursday - Grounds of Temptation - Numbers 22:19-21
Friday - God Shows His Anger through an Animal - Numbers 22:22-30
Saturday - God's Word is Sure - Numbers 23:16-26
Sunday - The Dominion of Christ - Numbers 24:15-19

Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow...

2010-01-22T19:41:00.003-06:00

As many of you know, there have been many prayers going up for our dear brother in Christ, Bro. Joe Owens and the surgery he was facing this week. I am happy to report that the surgery was a success, and there is no cancer! Rejoice with us as we join with the Owens family in giving praise to our Great Physician!

Adult Sunday School Lesson for January 24, 2010

2010-01-20T22:01:00.002-06:00

The topic for this Sunday's lesson is "The Sin of Jealousy and Envy."

Golden Text: "Charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up. Doth not behave itself unseemly." I Corinthians 13:4-5

The Scripture Lesson: Numbers 12:1-16

Daily Bible Readings (for the rest of the week):

Thursday - A Murmuring People - Exodus 16:1-21
Friday - An Impious Feast - Daniel 5:1-9
Saturday - The Sin of Leprosy - Number 12:10-16
Sunday - God's Deliverance - Ephesians 4;17-32

Happy New Year

2010-01-18T20:40:00.003-06:00

Hello, Church Family ~
What a privilege it is to serve our Savior in this new year - 2010! Did you think you would ever see this day? Personally, I never did, because I was so certain that our Lord's return would be way before now! Well, now, more than ever, His coming is near! The excitement is building!
We have been busy in our corner of the world these days. God has certainly blessed us with a wonderful pastor and family! We have just blossomed under the ministry of Bro. Robert Jones, and Sis. Penny, Jillayne, Branden and Alissa have brought new spark to our congregation!
Our Sunday School Department is taking off. We are excited about the possibilities and opportunities right at our fingertips! God has great things in store for us.
We have some events to look forward to...In the very near future, Penn View's Ladies' trio will be here to hold us a service THIS Saturday evening at 7:00. You won't want to miss this--they always present an outstanding performance, and all the glory belongs to the Lord! Also, we are looking forward to our spring revival with Rev. Dan Durkee. I will be posting the dates shortly. The Ladies of the church are planning another breakfast get-together on February 20. Mark your calendar and plan to join us!
As always, if you have any suggestions of what you would like to see on our blog, please do not hesitate to send me an email. I will do my best to keep things current (my New Year's resolution!). God bless you all!

God's Picture of Sin - Sunday School Lesson

2009-07-24T09:44:00.002-05:00

Lesson-3 For July 19, 2009,. . . Text Romans 1:18-19

"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness (UN-God-likeness) of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness."
Paul comes to the central theme of this Epistle, that of showing the absolute need of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and its power to bring full salvation from the pollutants of man's fallen nature; and transforming him into a new creation.
Man's continual resistance to God's justice and righteousness will sooner or later bring eternal judgment; His holiness demands it. Even Israel, when backslidden from the holy commandments were no better off than all the heathen nations around her, even with all the promises and privileges given them through the covenant God made with them. The wrath of a Holy God demanded judgment from an offended and just and holy law given them. Especially such irreligiousness and immorality of conduct and life of a people God chose to be an example of His grace and mercy and love to a lost world.
Page-19. . . "Mankind is Responsible and Accountable For His Actions"
It is a reprehensible deed to hinder the propagating of the gospel light under any circumstances. Both to those who once knew and tasted the truth and those who walk in darkness never having known.
Yet John 1:9 speaks of that "true light which gives light" (conscience) to every man coming into the world." Great light or less Light, man is held accountable to it before a Holy and just God.
Page-21_ "Leaving The Natural Use," The nature and power of sin gravitates to unnatural passions of body and mind, it is a downward spiral that deadens conscience and all control towards satisfying passions of the lust of the body and the mind; degrading themselves until shame of sin is removed and becomes a natural expression of their nature. It is not a pretty picture of any society of people anywhere.
Hope eternal to all men everywhere. . . "The love of God Reaches. . . God is ever searching for lost sheep to save them, but His help is limited until the lost cry out to Him in their utter despair. His salvation can and does reach to the lowest hell and can pull them out of the darkest pit where sin has driven them. Creating a new heart and life in them. . ." For God so loved the world that he gave His only Son, that whosoever believes on Him shall have eternal life" (Life in Him).
There is absolutely no other means of eternal salvation, the Lamb alone can and will save all who cry out to Him. God's displeasure and wrath will fall on all sin and unrighteousness, but wants so very much to save the sinner if he will turn to Him seeking forgiveness and help.
Teacher: Bro. D.L. Ferguson

"The Gospel of Christ is for All" (Romans 1:13-17; Acts 28: 28-31)

2009-07-15T10:19:00.002-05:00

Our lesson started with our teacher, Bro. Snodgrass, explaining to the class the burden he has concerning Christians in the church today being more engaged in the demands of life than being aware of the opportunity the Holy Spirit often makes available to us for gospel outreach in the world we live in.
Our growth and spiritual welfare can be greatly advanced in the word of our testimony in every opportunity the Spirit opens to us in the daily events of our lives, in the work place and various task we set ourselves to do in the day, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, and what it means to us.
Verse 14. "I am debtor." Both to Greeks and to barbarians (to the cultured and to the uncultured), both to the wise and the foolish, I have an obligation to discharge and the duty to preform and a debt to pay.
The burden we have is the complacency of the age to forget our obligation, duty and debt to share the "Good News" to others as to what the Lord has done for us.
"And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached (proclaimed) in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." (Matt. 24:14).
Testimony: Acts 11:24. . . "For (Barnabas) was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and FAITH: and much people was added into the Lord." This lesson was a challenge to the reality of the gospel being "The dynamics of action:" for we are debtors to that message in the world.
(submitted by Bro. Don Ferguson)

Cooking out, eating together, celebrating...

2009-07-12T14:11:00.008-05:00

Since the last post, there have been a few changes in our congregation. Our new pastor and family - Robert and Penny Jones, Jillayne, Branden and Alissa - are here on site, and we are flourishing under their ministry!

We are so glad Kindal made it home safely. It feels good to have here back here where she belongs!

July 3rd, Allen and Jennifer opened their home to us, and we all gathered there for a cookout. Bebo had his cadillac grill there, and believe me ~ there was a lot more than hot dogs to eat ~ the beef tips were to die for!! We also had chicken, (you'll have to ask Bebo for the recipe!) fish and hamburgers from the grill.and along with the other food the ladies prepared, there was a feast that beat all others!

The kids had so much fun playing in the water toys. There were other yard games and volleyball, homemade icecream, Sis. Penny's awesome lemon dessert,

and then we all gathered around the piano and sang. What wonderful fellowship we all have as the family of God!

Don't you just love Sunday School!

2009-04-26T23:33:00.006-05:00

The 10 Commandments were brought to life this past Sunday as the children attempted to illustrate each Commandment. What a privilege to present the "living" Bible to these precious kids! I hope you enjoy these pictures.

I. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (Asya is praying to God)

II. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image. (Matthew is thinking about things people might place before God, and hopefully he will see that God should ALWAYS come first)

III. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain. (Reid is showing us that he will not say those words that displease God. We should only say God's name with reverence and respect.)

IV. Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy. (Jake and Tara are holding their Hymnal and Bible to show what we do in church, and to remember that Sunday is a special day reserved for worship.)

V. Honor thy father and mother. (Tara is kissing Mrs. Connie (her mother) showing her love.)

VI. Thou shalt not kill. (Oh NO! Did Matthew just kill Tara?!?!)

VII. Thou shalt not commit adultery. (Jake and Asya posed to remind us that marriage is between a man and a woman, and they should stay true to each other for all of their lives.)

VIII. Thou shalt not steal. (Matthew is taking some "precious" jewels from Asya's bag.)

IX. Thou shalt not bear false witness. (Uh oh! She thinks she found the culprit, but Matthew would rather lie and deny it than 'fess up!)

X. Thou shalt not covet. (All the kids are reaching for the toys even though they do not belong to them.)

Well, that's a peek into our Sunday School hour this morning. Hope you enjoyed it as much as the kids did!

New Schedule for Sunday (April 26th)

2009-04-25T09:34:00.004-05:00

What a beautiful spring we are having!! God is so good!

There has been a change in the schedule for Sunday morning. We will be gathering in at 11:00 am, and starting the service. At the time for the morning message, we will disperse to our Sunday School classes. Bro. Ferguson will be teaching the adult class, and the children will go to their classes downstairs. If you have any questions, please send me an email-- conniesnodgrass@bellsouth.net.

We will be looking forward to seeing you in the morning! God bless you each one.

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T22:37:00.001-05:00

A special Easter blessing to our church family and friends. May God bless each one of you as you celebrate our Lord's resurrection - the birth of our salvation!
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Our New Pastor!

2009-04-06T22:17:00.003-05:00

We are so pleased to welcome our new pastor and family--

Robert and Penny Jones, Branden, Jillayne, and Alissa! We just had a wonderful week of revival with Bro. Jones as the evangelist, and the spirit of unity was so beautiful. They are going to be such an asset to our church and our community. You can sense that they have a love for souls and a heart for outreach. We enjoyed this special time getting acquainted with them and their sweet family. Last Sunday, was especially good. After Bro. Jones preached a stirring message about the thief on the cross, we had communion together. Sunday night was so encouraging, then at the close of the service, the congregation gathered around the Jones family and prayed for God's Spirit to move and guide and direct as we take this new turn together.

Congratulations are in order!!

2009-03-25T20:27:00.000-05:00

Well, a week ago Tuesday, a beautiful baby boy came to bless the home of Allen & Jennifer Humphrey. He was 8 lb. 12 oz. and healthy as can be! Reid and Jake are the proud big brothers. We are so happy to welcome baby Cole Alex!
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Heaven is brighter today.

2009-03-15T17:35:00.001-05:00

Bro. Morris Snodgrass went to be with Jesus this past week. It was a difficult thing to walk into the sanctuary this morning and view the gaping hole on the 2nd seat. We will miss him more than words can say. God's presence was very real and comforting. Bro. Carver sang "Consider the Lilies" which is such a sweet reminder of our Father's love. Bro. Robert Jones' message reminded us that Jesus is praying for us so that we can make it through these dark times.

The arrangements have been made as follows:

Patterson-Forest Grove Funeral Home
1498 5th Ave.
Pleasant Grove, AL 35127

Viewing - Monday evening 5 - 8 PM
Funeral - Tuesday morning 11 AM

More information can be found at www.pilgrimnazarene.org.

Thank you for your prayers at this time.
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Adult Sunday School Lesson for March 8th

2009-03-03T16:05:00.004-06:00

Well, it looks like there are just a few more lessons in our study of the minor prophets. Next Sunday will take us to the book of Micah. If you don't have a quarterly, you can access more information and study helps on the side bar under the heading "Adult Sunday School."

A brief interruption to spring...

2009-03-03T09:45:00.001-06:00

What a beautiful sight awaited us as Sunday morning dawned! Who would have thought that Birmingham would be the setting for a winter wonderland! Well, those of you familiar with the South and their capabilities regarding wintery roads know that safe passage is highly doubtful! There are no plow or salt trucks, so unless you have chains on your tires, you take your life in your hands when you venture out. With all that in mind, we thought it best to worship the Lord in the comfort of our own homes! (We sure missed that good Sunday School lesson, Bro. Scott!!) The sun did finally come out in the afternoon, and true to form, warmed up the earth and started to shine down on all the cute little "Frosty's" that seemed to pop up in several yards! We felt very safe in attempting travel to the evening service.

God gave us such a wonderful service Sunday evening. His presence was so sweet. Bro. Ferguson unburdened his heart to us and stressed the importance of continuing to "abide in Christ," and allowing God to lead us by the still waters. That is where I want to be!

Some exciting things are happening here in Pleasant Grove. We will be able to make some announcements here shortly, so stay tuned. God is certainly moving in our midst!
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Prayer request

2009-02-22T22:04:00.002-06:00

A quick update to the special prayer requests--Ann Vance is home from the hospital and recovering. The process is going to be slow, but hopefully steady. She said to greet everyone at church for her. She misses you all. Please keep her in your prayers, and I know she would like to hear from you! Feel free to contact me for her phone number or address. conniesnodgrass@bellsouth.net

Also, Kindal Beach is going to meet with her doctor in Guam on Tuesday. Don't forget to pray for her!

Ya'll have a good week!

Next Sunday's Adult Sunday School lesson

2009-02-22T22:01:00.000-06:00

The lesson for March 1st is about Jonah learning that disobedience is destructive. Check out the column on the left side for more study helps for this lesson.

Preacher's Meeting

2009-02-22T22:00:00.001-06:00

Preacher's Meeting this year was in Shreveport, Louisiana. Rev. Walter Hedstrom was the evangelist, and the Lord helped him to do a tremendous job. He brought many resourceful ideas and tools to the preacher's in attendance. A highlight of our time together was the 5th Anniversary Celebration and Banquet held at Camp Bethany--the place where the PNC was born. We had such a meaningful time of fellowship, reminiscing and blending together. We all came away encouraged and challenged, ready to stay in the battle for souls.

PNC 5th Anniversary Celebration and Banquet

2009-02-22T21:58:00.001-06:00

Preacher's Meeting 2009

2009-02-22T20:50:00.001-06:00

More Prayer Requests...

2009-02-19T09:26:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! I'm coming to you with another update, and I'm adding another request to the list. Aren't you glad that nothing is too hard for God?!

Ann Vance had surgery on her knee yesterday. If I understand it all, the surgeon went into her knee and replaced the implant with a temporary medicated one, drained the infection, and the plan is to go back in after a period of time and put the permanent implant back in. Hopefully this will fix the problem. Please pray for Ann and David. This will be the 6th surgery on her knee since last July. They are depressed as they try to deal with it all, but as I spoke with David this morning, he said that he knows the God is looking out after them. I know they appreciate your prayers. If you would like to have more information about how to contact them, please let me know. You can email me at conniesnodgrass@bellsouth.net. I can give you her hospital information as well as her cell phone number.

Another request that has been brought to our attention is Tommy Gray's dad, Mr. Gray. Tommy is the father of the children that have been coming to Sunday School. Mr. Gray has been battling cancer, and recently, he has taken a turn for the worse. Tommy has asked that we remember him in our prayers. Let's surround these people with our love and ask God to be especially close to meet their every need.

Praising God for His help!

2009-02-17T16:23:00.000-06:00

Thank you for your prayers! I have an update on a few of the needs previously posted.

As it turns out, Dad Snodgrass has a bad sinus infection and is taking treatment for that. Thank the Lord they were able to diagnose the problem and get him on the mend!

The Lord was with Mary Beth today. Your prayers mean so much!
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Prayer Requests

2009-02-17T10:46:00.000-06:00

Hello, again. I am coming to you again with another call for prayer.
Please pray for Bro. Morris Snodgrass as he has battled a very bad cold for the past couple of weeks, but his condition has worsened considerably over the past several days. He is on his way to the doctor today. His family is very concerned. Please pray for him!
An update on Sister Ann Vance - her knee is infected and she will be going in for surgery tomorrow, the 18th. She is in a lot of pain right now, and I know she appreciates your prayers.
I would also like to mention Mary Beth Davis and ask you to remember her in your prayers today in a special way.
Thank you for continuing to remember Kindal Beach as you pray. Things don't seem to be moving along in an efficient way for her healing, and she still needs to be covered with prayer.
One more thing. Please remember to pray for our Preacher's Meeting this week, and please pray for your pastor as he leads this meeting.
Aren't you glad we serve a prayer answering God? Just remember that the ultimate answer to any prayer we may have is His presence in the midst of our trials. He makes His love known to us by coming along side of us at those difficult times and holding is up and giving us strength.
I will keep the blog updated as we receive reports on these needs.
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Next Sunday's Lesson for the Adult class

2009-02-17T10:05:00.000-06:00

The Sunday School lesson for February 23rd is about Hosea as he tells of God's forgiving love. You will find more information on the column on the left hand side. If there is anything in this passage that speaks to you, please share it with us. Just click on the word "comment" as it appears right below this post, and you will be directed to a dialog box where you can type a note.

Sunday Services

2009-02-17T08:08:00.000-06:00

We had a beautiful Sunday for gathering to worship. This being the day after Valentine's Day, we all had our thoughts geared toward our loved ones or sweethearts whatever the case may be. Thank you to Ann Vance for decorating the bulletin board. It looks so nice and tells us that God sees us as His special Valentine -- a unique message from John 3:16. Bro. Steve preached from I Corinthians 13 both services, delving into each verse and expounding it's meaning. What an awesome standard of love we have to live up to--and we can! with God's grace and sanctifying power. If you were there and would like to share some of your thoughts, please feel free to do so. God bless each one of you!

Upcoming Bible College Choir concerts

2009-02-17T07:44:00.000-06:00

Do you remember how much we enjoyed having UBC choir here last year? Well, there are a couple of concerts coming up in the near future, and I thought you might like to know about them.

God's Bible School choir
February 19th -- this Thursday -- Woodhaven Church of the Nazarene, Tuscaloosa, AL -- 7:00 pm -- (513) 256-8075

February 20th -- this Friday -- Bible Methodist Campgrounds, Pell City, AL -- 7:30 pm -- (256) 362-8446

you will thoroughly enjoy this choir!

Union Bible College choir

March 27 -- Bible Methodist Campground, Pell City, AL -- 7:00 pm -- (205) 884-1708

you will be blessed as you worship with these young people!

My utmost for His highest - today's reading

2009-02-07T11:51:00.001-06:00

I thought today's reading was outstanding. I hope you enjoy the meat of this like I did.

THE DISCIPLINE OF DEJECTION "But we trusted . . . and beside all this, to-day is the third day . . ." Luke 24:21
Every fact that the disciples stated was right; but the inferences they drew from those facts were wrong. Anything that savours of dejection spiritually is always wrong. If depression and oppression visit me, I am to blame; God is not, nor is anyone else. Dejection springs from one of two sources - I have either satisfied a lust or I have not. Lust means - I must have it at once. Spiritual lust makes me demand an answer from God, instead of seeking God Who gives the answer. What have I been trusting God would do? And to-day - the immediate present - is the third day, and He has not done it; therefore I imagine I am justified in being dejected and in blaming God. Whenever the insistence is on the point that God answers prayer, we are off the track. The meaning of prayer is that we get hold of God, not of the answer. It is impossible to be well physically and to be dejected. Dejection is a sign of sickness, and the same thing is true spiritually. Dejection spiritually is wrong, and we are always to blame for it. We look for visions from heaven, for earthquakes and thunders of God's power (the fact that we are dejected proves that we do), and we never dream that all the time God is in the commonplace things and people around us. If we will do the duty that lies nearest, we shall see Him. One of the most amazing revelations of God comes when we learn that it is in the commonplace things that the Deity of Jesus Christ is realized.
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Prayer Request

2009-02-06T08:25:00.000-06:00

Today, I would like to bring your attention to another matter of prayer. As you know Ann Vance has had a lot of trouble with her knee. Even after many surgeries throughout the past 8 months, she still is experiencing much pain and difficulty walking. Today (Friday), she is going to see the doctor once again to try to pinpoint the cause of pain. Please pray for her healing!

Sunday Services

2009-02-03T12:56:00.001-06:00

It was such a joy to have the Truitts with us on Sunday. They were an inspiration to us all! Bro. Steve preached a very timely message on Sunday morning. Let me share a few points from that message with you.

Ridicule, Revenge, and Retaliation:
Handling Criticism
Nehemiah 4:1-23 and 6:1-14

1. Characteristics of a Destructive Critic

Their attacks are personal (Neh 2:19; 6:2). A person who has your best interest at heart will correct you, but you will know they are doing it out of love.
They question your motives (2:19; 6:6). The harder you try to keep your motives pure, the more others will call them into question.
They spread rumors (6:6-8). You may be the last one to hear the rumor.
They run with other critics (4:1-2). An honest critic will love you enough to speak to you in private and try to resolve the problem.
They resist change.
They have a human perspective (4:2 and 4). What Nehemiah was undertaking was humanly impossible. But his perspective convinced him that he had better things to do than fight with Sanballet.
They are sarcastic (4:3). Sarcasm is a ploy to belittle you and what you are doing.
They use intimidation (6:9, 10-13). People use intimidation to get you to compromise what you believe. Remember this: God is bigger than your critics!
They try to discourage those around you (4:10, 12, 16-23). Destructive critics will try to turn your friends against you.

2. How to Handle Destructive Critics and Criticisms

Prayer. When criticized, ask God if the criticism is just. Pray for the courage to change. Pray for those who are doing the criticizing. Pray for humility and the ability not to take things personal. Pray for wisdom, strength, and discernment to keep doing what you know is right.
Perspective. When you remind yourself God is in control, you recognize criticism for what it is and don't allow it to dissuade you.
Persistence. The best way to prove a critic wrong is to outlast him, doing what you know God has called you to do. Many times the race doesn't go to the swift, but to the one who perseveres.

Are you going through a time when it seems everything you try is being met with opposition? Do you feel like your critics are being destructive instead of constructive? Recognize that when you step out on faith, follow God, and try to make a difference, you will be criticized. Expect it and deal with it through prayer, keeping the proper perspective, and being persistent.

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We were privileged to have Bro. Troy Truitt preach for us Sunday night. A few young people from our Jasper church were with us for the service. Bro. Troy took his text from I Peter 5:6-8 and left a few points for us to think about:

Do NOT follow God by feelings.
Don't forfeit your faith.
Don't fall or faint - Galatians 6:9, Hebrews 2:1
Determine to make it!

And don't forget I John 2:1. We serve a merciful God who will be with us every step of the way. If you were with us, I trust you enjoyed the services. Feel free to leave a note, just click on the word "comment." We would love to hear from you.

Prayer List for 2009

2009-02-01T22:55:00.001-06:00

Bro. Scott Beach has maintained a prayer list for the church for several years. Here is an updated list. If you have any requests you would like to add, please let me know. We will try to update this regularly -- especially as we receive answers to these prayers. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16b

Prayer List 2009

Brother and Sister Snodgrass (Our Pastor and His Wife) and their children.

Mom and Dad Snodgrass- Their health, David, Kim and DJ, Jeremy, Steve, Ruth and boys. Mike, Edie and boys.

Bebo and Mary Beth Davis

Allen, Jennifer, Reid, and Jake Humphrey- Allen’s schooling. Sis. Jen’s pregnancy

Larry and Linda Carver

Paul, Lacy, and Lane Carver

Dad Ferguson- Pray for his health and as he teaches the adult class.

Scott and Trina Beach - pray for Scott as he takes his turn teaching the adult class.

Bro & Sis. Freeman

Ann and David Vance

June Chapin (special unspoken)

Special Events
Revival - March 31st - April 5th, Rev. Robert Jones, evangelist
Preacher's Meeting - February 17-19
Youth Camp - June 15th - 19th
Family Camp - July 27th - August 2nd

Military Personnel

Kindal Beach- in Guam (God’s protection) Spiritual and physical need.

Special Needs

Will, Kandi & Nate - Kandi's pregnancy
David and Jessica Davis
Brandon and Carlin Allen
Caleb, Amanda & Aiden Davis
Todd, Liz and baby (Southerland)
Donya and her daughter Alyssa
Kindal and Travis Beach
Rick and Becky Skiles and their children Clayton, Samantha, Chance, Cody, Lexis.
Jimmy & Stephanie Rossman & Shayla

Physical Needs

Bobby Carver (depression) Teresa, Rebecca, Bailey. Pray for this family.
Greg and Debbie Shields.
Bro. Bryan & Sis. Linda Shields
Bro. John Dowd & Family
Sis. Harbison
Lacy’s mom Kay
David & Ann Vance
Jane Ann Curry

Our Families, Our Friends and Friends of the Church

Steve and Debbie Foshee
Andy and Emma and their new family
Bro. and Sis. Harbison
Sis. Phebe Everhart & family
Bro. and Sis. Yancey and their West Virginia church.
Bible Holiness Church Silvis Illinois and their pastor, Bro. Ken Beach
Katelyn, Courtlyn, Asya, Matthew & Dylan
Tommy and Audra Gray
VBS children
Bro. & Sis. Troy Truitt and Family
Bro. Don Bates Family (passing of his Daddy)

Anniversary Celebration

2009-02-01T22:23:00.001-06:00

Youth Camp Service with the Truitts

2009-01-31T00:19:00.000-06:00

We had a great turn-out for our PNC Youth Camp service. Rev. Troy Truitt, his wife, Jennifer, and their family -- Lauren, Luke, Tyler, Travis, Andrea and Alex, came to present the cause of our Youth Camp, and we had a really great time! Our PNC churches from Jasper and Pell City joined us for the evening. This youth camp has been in existence for the past 3 summers, and we have seen tremendous results among our young people because of it. We are called upon to invest in our church of tomorrow, and our youth camp is a wonderful place to put your support. Youth Camp has proven to be a great place for our young people to meet new friends who also want to serve God. We also know that God's presence is very real that it penetrates even the stoutest heart. If you are interested in learning more about the Youth Camp, check out this website www.pilgrimnazarene.org.

Thanks for praying - but don't give up now!

2009-01-31T00:09:00.000-06:00

Thank you for praying for Kindal Beach. She was able to meet with her doctors this week, and they explained the need for surgery, but there are still more delays. This is cause for much frustration -- both physically and emotionally, so please continue to make this a matter of prayer.

Special Prayer Request

2009-01-25T20:39:00.000-06:00

This week, Kindal Beach will be in Hawaii seeing a specialist about her knee and the problems she has been having. Unfortunately, this has been a long, drawn-out process, and she desperately needs some answers. Please hold her up in prayer, and we will keep you posted as to the outcome of these doctor visits. Thank you! We serve a prayer-answering God!

Today's Message

2009-01-25T20:21:00.000-06:00

We had wonderful services today. This morning, especially, God came and met with us as we were singing "It Will Be Worth It All." How wonderful it is to worship with God's people!

Today, Bro. Snodgrass preached both sermons on "Forgiveness." This is a lost art, I'm afraid. Here are a few points from the message:

How to Truly Forgive...

Make certain you have first received and experienced God's forgiveness in your own heart.
Write out your feelings of resentment and bitterness on a piece of paper. Then give what you have written to God.
Choose to forgive the person who wronged you.
Keep on forgiving.
Continue growing in Christ.

Feel free to express your thoughts on today's messages. Just click on the word "comment" under this post and you should be directed to the box where you can type your comments.

Happy Birthday and Anniversary!

2009-01-24T11:30:00.000-06:00

I thought you might like to know of the upcoming birthdays:

January
Birthdays
20th - Jennifer Humphrey
27th - Reid Humphrey (4 years)

Anniversaries
21st - Glen & June Chapin
29th - Bro. & Sis. Freeman

February
Birthdays
11th - Asya Hollis (6 years)
23rd - DJ Snodgrass (4 years)

Anniversaries
5th - Larry & Linda Carver

Ladies' Breakfast/Brunch

2009-01-22T16:47:00.000-06:00

Saturday, January 17th, the ladies of the church met at Cracker Barrel for a time of fellowship. We had such a nice time visiting with each other and getting better acquainted with those who have just recently come to be a part of our congregation. There were about 12 of us at the table (which included our sweet Jake) =) I'm so glad for chances like these to band together in friendship. It's wonderful to worship together, but it's also nice to be able to sit and chat over a good cup of Cracker Barrel coffee. Right, Ann? =) "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God..."

Christmas Program 08

2009-01-22T16:34:00.000-06:00

Our Christmas program was a wonderful success this year. We were so pleased to welcome 40 people to the service! Thanks to everyone who joined us that morning. There were 11 children and young people participating and they all did a fantastic job. The theme was "Christmas --Past, Present, and Future." This was not in the "Dicken's" sense, but as it really happened.

Christmas Past was presented as the manger scene with Asya Hollis as "Mary," DJ Snodgrass as "Joseph," Jake Humphrey and Nathan Walker as Shepherds, Reid Humphrey and Matthew Gray as Wise Men, and Katelyn Gray, Tara and Katelyn Snodgrass as Angels. This was all in a beautiful stable built just for this program.

Christmas Present was presented as a typical home scene with Dylan Hollis and Courtlyn Gray portraying a harried couple trying to make ends meet, and yet make Christmas meaningful.

Christmas Future was presented as a scene in heaven with the angels telling us that some day we will celebrate our Savior's gift to us around the throne of God. I can't wait for that day!

They all did so well singing and acting their part. We are so blessed to have a great group of children and young people that have a desire to please Jesus.

Christmas Program 08

2009-01-22T16:30:00.001-06:00

A Reason to Celebrate!

2009-01-22T12:44:00.000-06:00

January is a month for milestones! It just recently came to my attention that Bro. & Sis. Jesse Freeman will be celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary on January 29th. We will certainly want to get together to help them celebrate. I also was made aware of the fact that Glen and June Chapin will be celebrating their 54th Wedding Anniversary that same week! This will be a lovely "Tournament of Roses!"

With that in mind, everyone is invited to the parsonage for a carry-in meal on Sunday, February 1st, for the purpose of celebrating these milestones. I will be sending a separate email to those of you whose email addresses I have outlining more details in regards to the meal. I trust you all will have a wonderful weekend. See you Sunday!