Give What You Have #86

John 6:8-9
8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to Him,
9 "There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these for so many people?" (NAS)

Has God ever used you to serve others? The young lad left home with a lunch of five barley l0aves and two fish. It was not a large amount of food, but likely just enough to satisfy his own hunger. Jesus had asked the disciples to feed the thousands of people who had come to hearJesus teach the words of life. As the multitude became hungry Jesus knew He needed to feed them. The disciples were overwhelmed with the task of meeting people needs beyond their means. They checked around and found a young lad with five loaves and two fish. Their response was simply; “what are these for so many people.” Jesus knew He could use this young lad and his lunch to meet a great need.

Do you know God can use your life to bless many? God has chosen to use you in His mighty plan. A young lad with a small amount of food fed 5000 with food left over. He merely gave what he had into the hands of Jesus. Will you give what you have into His hands and allow Him to use your life to meet needs and glorify God? You may not see that you have much to give, but remember the disciple’s evaluation of the lad’s lunch was, “What are these for so many people.” In God’s hands you can be used of God also.

I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.

_______________________________Today's Personal Note From Dennis

Four weeks ago I was in a semi-coma with a serious case of meningitus and today I got my camper out, met with two pastors and visited two coffee shops, went grocery shopping with Sandy and ate like there was no tomorrow. What a difference a few weeks make. God is good. I am the best I have been in over two years. THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS!!!!

Saturday I preached a funeral for a friend and member of Church on Mill. He was a wonderful man with a super family. I have known him and his family for almost 20 years. He was always laughing, playing tricks and was a constant tease. For that reason this little story has got to be told.

During the time of my message somone's cell phone went off. I was waiting for them to turn it off when I realized it was my own phone in my pocket. I quickly reached in my pocket, flipped the lid to shut the call off. Ten seconds later it rang again. By then the congregation was laughing. I said, "Well it is my phone and I am going to answer it."

It was my friend Don from Louisiana. I told him I was in a funeral. I called him back later in the day and told him not only was I in the funeral but was preaching when he called. We had another laugh. I am so glad people are forgiving and can laugh at my mistakes. None of his family will ever forget his funeral and ME EITHER.

I pray God will bless you today by using your life for His glory.

Tired of Waiting #85

Colossians 1:9-11
9 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
10 so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; (NAS)

The Pastor, the mother of preschoolers, the contractor, the school principal, the doctor and the farmer all prayed the same prayer, “Lord, give me patience, but please hurry up about it.” Ever need patience? Ever wish God would give you more patience but you are a little tired of waiting?
The Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossian church to assure them he was praying for them and desired that they know God’s will, and walk in such a way that their lives would please God. In order for that to be accomplished they needed God’s power to receive the patience. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit, not a contrived mental state or emotion derived from your determination. Pray for the Holy Spirit to be your power and to fill your life with God’s patience. You might need it even today.

I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.

__________________________Today"s personal note from Dennis

Praise the Lord! I am back among the living. If you are not up on the latest in my struggle with cancer check out Roger's blog site www.dgwhealthnews.blogspot.com

Sandy and I were able to be back at church Sunday the 14th. It was good to see everyone. Both of us have a desire to be able to again teach and preach. We are expecting God to open those doors and give us health to serve Him. I cannot thank you enough for your prayers during the past three weeks. With a great God, your prayers, support from family and friends and great doctors. I am able to be up and going. I am even back driving. Watch out. God is so good. He continues to open doors for me to share my story of God's grace and love. I jump through every open door He gives me. Keep up your prayers.

Sandy received a glowing report from the doctor about her cyst. It was benign. PTL! We are looking forward to having some time without crisis. Durng that time we hope to see some of you and maybe do some ministry.

God bless you today and may you find patience, hope, peace, love and joy in all you do. -DGW