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24
Nov '24

Table of Blessings 2024

Posted on Nov 24, 2024 by Ken Durham in General, Table of Blessings |

24
Nov '24

 

Welcome to a time of thanksgiving as brothers and sisters share how God has been faithful and gracious in their lives. They share to honor Him and His name…
 
 
Host:  Pastor Ken Durham  (0:06)
 
 

Testimonies:

 
Caleb Plumhoff (2:52)
 
Kevin, Bree & Kevin Michael (Bean) & Samantha Jane (5:00)
 
Tina Durham (11:23 & 35:42)
 
Kolby, Leah & Lincoln Durham (12:00)
 
Mararet Richardson (36:34)
 
Pastor Jerry Ingalls (54:15)

 

 
 
(These times will only work with the first testimonies video below)
 

You can watch the testimonies by clicking HERE.

 

You can watch the entire service by clicking HERE.

 
 

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27
Oct '24

What If…?

Posted on Oct 27, 2024 by Ken Durham in General, Sermon Notes, Special Message |

27
Oct '24
John 14:1-27(NLT)
 

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”

“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!”

Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.”

Jesus replied, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you?  Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me.  Just believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. Or at least believe because of the work you have seen me do.

 I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

If you love me, obey my commandments.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.  He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.  No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you. Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Since I live, you also will live. When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

Judas (not Judas Iscariot, but the other disciple with that name) said to him, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?”

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.  

Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me.”

 
 

As you have read through the Bible, (and I am hoping you have at least once), have you noticed how many times people question God?

 

They do so by either their actions or their words, but still, it is showing doubt.  (ie)   Adam/Eve (Tree), Moses (Leader), Samuel (King), Peter (boat)

 

In the Book of James, he warns us not to doubt or waiver in our belief. When we do, we become unstable in all our ways. Many times in our own lives, we find ourselves questioning God with “But, God, what if…?” (give some examples)

 

I am not saying that we can’t have questions. We need to take that original question “But, God, what if…?” and pose it as “What if…? But God can!”

 

In our scripture reading today, we find the disciples with Jesus at the Last Supper, the last Passover meal that they will share with Him. He has been with them for over three years, and He was making sure that they were ready for what was coming next. He had already served them by washing their feet and telling them how no one who is a believer is better than anyone else, slave or free. He was assuring them of the promise of a heavenly home with the Father.

 

SMH Question from Thomas in verse 5: “How do we know the way?”

        My response: Come on, man! Where have you been last 3 years?

        Jesus’ response: I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one

comes to the Father except through me.

 

SMH statement from Phillip in verse 8: “Show us the Father, and then we will be satisfied.”

        My response: Come on, man! Where have you been last 3 years?

        Jesus’ response: Have you not seen Me? Heard what I said?

Now just believe it!

 

Are we any different? Have we been asking the “I should already know this” type questions? We need to take God at His word! We do that by doing asking ourselves the following questions:

  1. What if we have FAITH?
  2. What if we show LOVE?
  3. What if we live by the SPIRIT?

 

1. What if we have FAITH?

 

“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. 13 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14 Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!”

John 14:12-14        

Additional Scriptures:    Matthew 17:20; Matthew 21:21; Mark 11:22-23; Luke 17:6

Song Illustration:      “I Speak the Name” (Katy Nicole)

(V1).  I speak the name of Jesus over you
In your hurting, in your sorrow, I will ask my God to move
I speak the name ’cause it’s all that I can do
In desperation, I’ll seek Heaven, And pray this for you

(V2).  I speak the name of all authority
Declaring blessings, every promise He is faithful to keep
I speak the namе no grave could ever hold
Hе is greater, He is stronger, He’s the God of possible

 

2. What if we show LOVE?

 

John 14:15     

“If you love me, obey my commandments.”

 

John 13:34-35    

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”

 

Difference between world and believers:

Not just being good/loving person, but it comes from a personal relationship with Him.

 

John 14:23

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.”

 

 Cannot please man & truly serve God

 

Galatians 1:10

“Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.”

 

3. What if we live by the SPIRIT?

 

The Promise of the Holy Spirit and what He will do in our lives.

John 14:26-27     

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”

 

Galatians 5:16-17  

“So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.”

 

Galatians 5:24-25 

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.”

 

I want to make it clear that these are not my words, or me manipulating the different scriptures to prove my point. I pray that you have heard from God’s Word what He wants every one of us to do, me included! He promises that if we seek Him, we will find Him and He will help us to grow.
 
 
(Video links should activate within a few days)

You can watch this week’s message by clicking HERE.

You can watch the entire service including music by clicking HERE.

 
 
 

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29
Sep '24

The Heart of the Father

Posted on Sep 29, 2024 by Ken Durham in General, Sermon Notes, Special Message |

29
Sep '24

The Heart of the Father: Lesson’s Learned From Sabbatical

John 1:1-4; 16-18

 
Today’s message is going to be different from the normal type in that we will be sharing things that God spoke to our hearts during the 14 weeks (or 100 days, according to Jerry’s calendar) of our Sabbatical. (Side note: Tina only got 11 weeks, because she had to go back to school) But one of the first things they told her was that she looked very relaxed and refreshed, which is what this time was intended to be for both of us.

 

A sabbatical is supposed to be a time of rest.

~O.T. work the fields for 6 years, then give them a year

off.

~In the academic world: A time to be free of teaching duties and to do research, travel and writing.

 

~For us: A time of rest, reflection on the past years of ministry, and seeking God for what’s next. And sometimes I can be a slow learner!

 

So, in order to find what to do, I had to go back to the beginning…

 

Please stand for the reading of God’s Word:

 

John 1:1-4, 16-18 (NLT)

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He existed in the beginning with God. 3 God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. 4 The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone…From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us.”

 

I love how John takes us back to the beginning, just like Genesis, where it all started. So since Jesus was there at the beginning, and we are created in their image, think about the first heartbeat of Adam when life was breathed into him! He was in rhythm with the Father’s heart.

 

~When a baby is born, the first thing they want for the new parents to do is have skin time, but actually, it is a way for the baby to hear their heartbeat…a sound very familiar to them as they were in the womb.

 

~According to John 13:23, the disciple John was leaning on Jesus’ chest as they were around the table at the Last Supper. I believe it was so he could hear his Master’s heart.

 

ILLUS: Stethoscope

-need to close out sounds of the world

-need to be quiet yourself

-The Twelve Disciples has Jesus with them, and they

Still struggled to know the Father’s heart.

 

John 14:9-11

“Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” 9 Jesus *said to him, “Have I been so long with you, and yet you have not come to know Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves

In the English language we have these little connecting words call “prepositions”. Their purpose is to create a phrase that shows direction, connection or relationship between elements in a sentence. I had an ‘ah ha’ moment during this time away. I needed to quit having conversations AT God and have conversations WITH God.

-Still bring all my needs to Him

-Express how I am feeling

-BUT…Take the time to be quiet &

listening for His response.

 

  • Lesson learned: Listen for HIS HEARTBEAT. Quit being busy doing the things OF God or things FOR God, and start doing things WITH God, fully led by the Holy Spirit which is IN We just need to listen!

 

Song: “Abide” Aaron Williams (see words below)

 

  • Tina’s Takeaway

 

  • Lesson learned: Jesus took time to get away, even during a busy time. Need to be more like Him.

 

Why: Prioritize relationship with God over public

Ministry (Luke 6:12)

Personal Time with God (Matt. 6:6)

Encountering God more deeply in silence. (Mk 1:35)

Able to express authentic emotions privately

Get away from worldly distractions (Luke 5:16)

Maintain spiritual disciplines

 

Prayer over congregation:

Gracious God, thank you for wanting us close by so we can hear Your heartbeat. Cure our spiritual restlessness each morning to wait upon You. Help us live each and every day with Your power and grace so we can become the people after Your own heart.

 

Song: “Heart of Worship”
 
 
 

Abide

For my waking breath for my daily bread
I depend on You, I depend on You
For the sun to rise for my sleep at night
I depend on You, I depend on You

You’re the way the truth and the life
You’re the well that never runs dry
I’m the branch and You are the vine
Draw me close and teach me to abide

Where the Spirit leads as I’m following
I depend on You, I depend on You
For the victories still in front of me
I depend on You, I depend on You

You’re the way the truth and the life
You’re the well that never runs dry
I’m the branch and You are the vine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
Be my strength my song in the night
Be my all my treasure my prize
I am Yours forever Your mine
Draw me close and teach me to abide

When I pass through death as I enter rest
I depend on You, I depend on You
For eternal life to be raised with Christ
I depend on You, I depend on You

You’re the way the truth and the life
You’re the well that never runs dry
I’m the branch and You are the vine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
Be my strength my song in the night
Be my all my treasure my prize
I am Yours forever Your mine
Draw me close and teach me to abide

Here I am Lord
Would you teach me to abide
Teach me
Would you teach me

I depend on You, I depend on You
Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You

Oh, oh

I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You
I depend on You, I depend on You
 

 

Written by: Aaron Williams, Aaron Keyes, Jake Fauber
Album: Abide
Released: 2021
 
 
 
 
 
You can watch this week’s message by clicking HERE.
 
You can watch the entire service including music by clicking HERE.
 
 
 

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01
Jun '24

Hymn: He Was Nailed to the Cross for Me

Posted on Jun 1, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

01
Jun '24

Today’s song focus :

He Was Nailed to the Cross for Me

 

Colossians 2:13-14 (NASB95)

 

“ When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your

flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our

transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees

against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having

nailed it to the cross..”

 

Born in 1856, Frederick A Graves was raised in a Christian family. His father passed away when he was 6 and his mother passed when he was 9, leaving him orphaned. While being raised by family friends, he was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 14. He left home at 21 and was a talented musician. He studied Bible and music in Chicago and Northfield, MA where he met his wife, Vina.. After hearing evangelist John A. Dowie, he experienced a permanent healing of his epilepsy which provided the backdrop for his writing over 43 hymns and gospel songs.


He was nailed to the cross for me,

He was nailed to the cross for me.

On the cross crucified, for me He died.

He was nailed to the cross for me

 

We need to wake up and thank Jesus for the sacrifice that He made for us. While there were physical nails used to hold His body on the cross, it was His love for us that held Him there. He loved us so much that He demonstrated it by spreading His arms wide. Thank You for the cross, Lord!
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

He was nailed to the cross for me

 
What a wonderful, wonderful SaviorWho would die on the cross for meFreely shedding His precious lifebloodOh, that the sinner might be made free
 
He was nailed to the cross for meHe was nailed to the cross for meOn the cross crucified for me, oh, He diedHe was nailed to the cross for me
 
You know He was wounded for ourOur transgressions, yes, He wasAnd He carried that day our sonsHe carried our sons too, yes, He didYou know He’s the healer, thank God He isFor every, for every sicknessThis He came to this world to doPraise God, yes, yes He did
 
So He gave His life for others (oh, praise God, yes)In Redeeming this whole world from sin (thank God)And He’s gone to prepare a mansion (praise God, yes, He is)That at last we may enter in (oh, thank the Lord)
 
He was nailed to the cross for meHe was nailed to the cross for meOn the cross crucified for me, yes, He diedHe was nailed to the cross for me
 
He was nailed to the cross for meHe was nailed to the cross for meOn the cross crucified for me, He diedHe was nailed to the cross for meOn the cross crucified for me, He diedHe was nailed to the cross for me
 
Thank You, JesusThank You, JesusI want every thank You, LordThat You was nailed to that cross for me
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jimmy Lee Swaggart

 

 

 

 


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25
May '24

Hymn: Child of Love

Posted on May 25, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

25
May '24
Today’s song focus :

Child of Love

1 John 3:1 (NASB95)

 

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”

 

Released originally in July of 2020, WE THE KINGDOM’s female lead singer Franni Rae Cash said this song “was a breakthrough back into the child-like place in her heart.”* It reminds us of the power of God’s endless love to bring about transformation and redemption in each of our lives. Because of that, we can hold fast to the promise the nothing can separate us from His amazing love! That is why we can declare with confidence that we are His child!


I’m gonna climb a mountain,
I’m gonna shout about it.
I am a child of love.
 
​I found a world of freedom,
I found a friend in Jesus,
I am a child of love

 

We need to wake up and let this song be our source of encouragement in our journey through this life. These words will help you to find strength as you begin to fully understand just how much God loves you! Find your identity in Him today!
 
 
 
If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.
 
YOUTUBE:
If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.
 
 
 

If you would like to hear this hymn, click HERE.

 
 

Child of Love

 
I was walking the waysideLost on a lonely roadI was chasing the high lifeTryna satisfy my soul
 
All the lies I believed inLeft me crying like the rainThen I saw lightning from HeavenAnd I’ve never been the same
 
I’m gonna climb a mountainI’m gonna shout about itI am a child of loveI found a world of freedomI found a friend in JesusI am a child of love
 
I’ve felt the sting of the fireBut I saw You in the flamesJust when I thought it was overYou broke me out of the grave
 
I’m gonna climb a mountainI’m gonna shout about itI am a child of loveI found a world of freedomI found a friend in JesusI am a child of love
 
I am a child of love, yeah, ohI am a child of love
 
Nothing can change the wayYou love meNothing can change the wayI belong to YouYes I doNothing can separate
 
Nothing can change the wayYou love meNothing can change the wayI belong to YouYes I doNothing can separate
 
I’m gonna climb a mountainI am a child of loveI found a world of freedomI am a child of love
 
I’m gonna climb a mountainI’m gonna shout about itI am a child of loveI found a world of freedomI found a friend in JesusI am a child of love, oh yeah
 
Yeah, I am a child of loveI am a child of love
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Andrew Bergthold / Edmond Martin Cash / Franni Cash / Martin Cash / Scott Mctyeire Cash
Child Of Love lyrics © Capitol Cmg Paragon, We The Kingdom Music
 
 

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18
May '24

Hymn: Holy Spirit

Posted on May 18, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

18
May '24

Today’s Hymn Focus :

Holy Spirit

Acts 1:8 (NASB95)          

 

“but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you

shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even

to the remotest part of the earth.”

 

Bryan and Katie Torwalt wrote this song inspired by the Book of Acts chapter 2, celebrating the coming of the Holy Spirit to the disciples on the day of Pentecost. Sung as a prayer asking God to send the Holy Spirit to comfort, protect and guide, it encourages us to trust in the third person of the Trinity to take us through the struggles of this life by finding our strength and peace in God’s amazing love.

Holy Spirit, You are welcome here.

Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere. 

Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for

to be overcome by Your presence, Lord

 

We need to wake up and realize that the Holy Spirit is gentle, never forcing His way into or upon our lives. We have to surrender daily to listening to God’s heart that can be heard through the Holy Spirit’s voice and leading. That is where we find the hope and peace that God provides along the way.

 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

Holy Spirit

 
There’s nothing worth moreThat will ever come closeNothing can compareYou’re our living HopeYour presence, Lord
 
I’ve tasted and seenOf the sweetest of loveWhen my heart becomes freeAnd my shame is undoneYour presence, Lord
 
Holy Spirit You are welcome hereCome flood this placeAnd fill the atmosphereYour glory GodIs what our hearts long forTo be overcomeBy Your presence, Lord
 
There’s nothing worth moreThat will ever come closeNothing can compareYou’re our living HopeYour presence, Lord
 
I’ve tasted and seenOf the sweetest of loveWhen my heart becomes freeAnd my shame is undoneYour presence, Lord
 
Oh, Holy Spirit You are welcome hereCome flood this placeAnd fill the atmosphereYour glory GodIs what our hearts long forTo be overcomeBy Your presence, Lord
 
Oh, Holy Spirit You are welcome hereCome flood this placeAnd fill the atmosphereYour glory GodIs what our hearts long forTo be overcomeBy Your presence, Lord
 
Overwhelm us with Your presence GodOverwhelm us nowOh, beautiful name
 
Let us become more awareOf Your presenceLet us experience the gloryOf Your goodnessLet us become more awareOf Your presenceLet us experience the gloryOf Your goodness
 
Let us become more awareOf Your presenceLet us experience the gloryOf Your goodnessOh Lord!
 
Holy Spirit You are welcome hereCome flood this placeAnd fill the atmosphereYour glory GodIs what our hearts long forTo be overcomeBy Your presence, Lord
 
Oh, Holy Spirit You are welcome hereCome flood this placeAnd fill the atmosphereYour glory GodIs what our hearts long forTo be overcomeBy Your presence, Lord
 
Lift your voice tonightLift your hunger tonightCry out for more, for moreDon’t be satisfiedTo where you’ve beenDon’t be contemptPraise Him for moreHunger for more tonightYeahOh more, more of GodMore of Him
 
Oh, Holy Spirit You are welcome hereCome flood this placeAnd fill the atmosphereYour glory GodIs what our hearts long forTo be overcomeBy Your presence, LordYes
 
Tell Him tonightTell Him tonightHow hungry you areLift your voiceLift your voice tonight
 
So hungry, so hungry for moreCan’t stay where I’ve beenCan’t stay where I’ve beenWanna go deeperWanna go deeperYeahYour presence
 
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Katie Torwalt / Bryan Torwalt
Holy Spirit lyrics © Capitol Cmg Genesis, Jesus Culture Music
 
 

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11
May '24

Hymn: A Thousand Amens

Posted on May 11, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

11
May '24

Today’s song focus :

A Thousand Amens

 

Lamentations 3:22-23 (NASB95)

 

“The Lord’s loving kindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;

Great is Your faithfulness.”

 

In 2009, Tim Timmons wanted to create a song that would be powerful and uplifting while inviting believers to praise and worship God. Reflective of the traditional Doxology, it also highlights the concept of God’s unfailing love, faithfulness and the assurance that we can always rely on His mercy and grace. It goes further to tell of God’s kindness that brings comfort, restoration and wholeness to all who worship Him.


Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him, all creatures here below
Praise Him above, Ye heavenly Host
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

 

We need to wake up to these facts that when we acknowledge God’s faithfulness, we will find healing and restoration in His loving kindness. His love and kindness not only brings forgiveness for our sins, but every area of our lives because He is our source of healing power.
 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 
 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 
 

A Thousand Amens

Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him, all creatures here below
Praise Him above, Ye heavenly Host
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

Unfailing love comes with the morning
It’s Your faithfulness we sing at night
It’s Your kindness Lord that leads to our healing
All glory to our maker and a thousand amens
Yeah, yeah, ooh

Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him, all creatures here below
Praise Him above, Ye heavenly Host
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

Unfailing love comes with the morning
It’s Your faithfulness we sing at night
It’s Your kindness Lord that leads to our healing, ooh
All glory to our Maker and a thousand amens
Yeah, yeah

Unfailing love comes with the morning, yeah, yeah
It’s Your faithfulness we sing at night
It’s Your kindness Lord that leads to our healing, oh
All glory to our Maker and a thousand amens

Amen, amen, amen, amen
Amen, amen, all glory to our Maker
Amen, amen, amen, amen
Amen, amen, all glory to our Maker
(Amen)

Amen, amen, amen, amen
Amen, amen, all glory to our Maker
Amen, amen, amen, amen
Amen, amen, all glory to our Maker
(We will praise Your name, oh God)

Amen, amen

 

 


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04
May '24

Hymn: Nothing But The Blood

Posted on May 4, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

04
May '24

Day 1509

Today’s song focus :

Nothing But The Blood

 

1 John 1:7 (NASB95)              

 

“but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light,

we have fellowship with one another,

and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

 

A popular Baptist preacher and educator during the mid to late 19th century, Robert Lowry provided many texts and tunes for the hymns coming from the United States. Noted as a classical gospel song, it takes the main theme of the blood of Jesus and carries it thru the entire song, driving home its importance in the gospel message. Like David in some of the Psalms, he used the call-response pattern in the verses to engage the singer.

 

Oh precious is the flow that makes me white as snow

No other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus

 

We need to wake up and realize that it was for OUR SIN that Jesus shed His blood to provide the ultimate sacrifice. There is NOTHING that we could ever have done to restore our relationship with Father God. It is His precious blood that washes away our sin and makes us whole again. Thank Him for that gift today!

 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

Nothing But The Blood

 
  1. What can wash away my sin?
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
    What can make me whole again?
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
    • Refrain:
      Oh! precious is the flow
      That makes me white as snow;
      No other fount I know,
      Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
  2. For my pardon, this I see,
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
    For my cleansing this my plea,
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
  3. Nothing can for sin atone,
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
    Naught of good that I have done,
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
  4. This is all my hope and peace,
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
    This is all my righteousness,
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
  5. Now by this I’ll overcome—
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
    Now by this I’ll reach my home—
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
  6. Glory! Glory! This I sing—
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus,
    All my praise for this I bring—
    Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
 
 

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28
Apr '24

The Heart of a Servant

Posted on Apr 28, 2024 by Ken Durham in General, Sermon Notes, Special Message |

28
Apr '24

(Pt 2 in The Heart series)

The Heart of a Servant

Galatians 5:13-14

 

 

 
In our world today, we are being pushed to have a self-serve mentality…at the checkout in the grocery and department stores, at the gas pump, and now, even at fast food restaurants with kiosks or phone apps to place our orders to get our food. We are also being encouraged to seek out whatever makes us happy or will help us move up in our career as a way to have the best life possible. SELF-SERVING! Which then creates a very SELFISH and ENTITLED mindset in our society.

 

That is why we as a church are not to follow the world, but to set the example for them to follow. When Jesus called the disciples, He told them to “Come! Follow me…” In doing so, they were to give up their own wants and desires and to learn from the Master so they could become true disciples. We, too, are to surrender everything to Jesus and learn from Him what a true disciple is and how we are to live that out in our lives.

 

In today’s scripture, we find Paul writing to the people of Galatia to not be like the world, but to be what Christ told His disciples to be. They were allowing the things of the world to distort the message of the Gospel. Galatians 5 starts off with this reminder:

 

“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.”

 

Freedom from the slavery of sin and selfishness is not something we can do on our own, I don’t care how much will power you have. It is only through Christ’s redemptive sacrifice and love that we can truly be free. And what is so cool about that it is a FREE GIFT for anyone who chooses to accept it. With it should come a real change in our hearts…

 

Galatians 5:13-14

“ For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14 For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.””

 

 

Love comes from the heart, and true love comes from God. When we love Him as He first loved us, then we are able to love others. So, in order for this to happen, we have to have that change from a self-serving heart to a heart that serves others.

 

Today, we are going to look at:

  • WHAT DOES IS MEAN TO HAVE THE HEART OF A SERVANT
  • HOW CAN WE DEVELOP THE HEART OF A SERVANT
  • WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING THE HEART OF A SERVANT

 

1. What does it mean to have the heart of a servant?

 

The heart of a servant is a reflection of God, embodying compassion and love (agape), not seeking its own glory, focuses on others and finds joy in lifting up the broken, bringing hope to the hopeless, all while being selfless.

 

A. Example of that type of heart from the Bible.

 

John 12:1-3:

“Jesus, therefore, six days before the Passover, came to Bethany where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 So they made Him a supper there, and Martha was serving; but Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. 3 Mary then took a pound of very costly perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”

 

The job of washing feet was one assigned to the lowest of slaves. Because of wearing sandals and traveling on dirt roads, when a guest came to the house, they would be offered a basin of water to wash their own hands as they prepared to sit down for a meal, but it was the servant that took care of washing their feet. They would wash the feet of the guests because they would be reclining around the table. This would mean that another guest’s feet would be close to where they were reclining. Some people’s feet just naturally smell bad from their own sweat, but what if they had stepped in something on the roadway in their travels (we call them ‘landmines’ aka ‘droppings’ from animals) Have you ever traveled behind a horse and buggy in Amish country?!?

 

 

Mary’s action was one that showed both humility and devotion to Jesus. The use of the alabaster jar of nard, a very expensive perfume was to demonstrate her total surrender to Him by giving her all. In Matthew and Mark’s writings about this event, they mentioned that she also anointed His head.

 

Mark 14:8 states:
 
She has done what she could; she has anointed My body beforehand for the burial.”

 

She was serving out of love for Jesus, with total disregard of what others might have thought or were even saying out loud. She was selflessly serving Jesus.

 

B. Another example from the Bible:

 

John 13:3-5:

“Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God, 4 got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself. 5 Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”

 

This was just six days after the previous story. These men had shared other Passover meals together, as well as other times of sitting down to share a meal. You would have thought that the disciples would have remembered this important part of caring for the guests at a meal. But we all know that they did not have any servants, so they probably figured it would be ‘every man for themselves’. Jesus was the one to get up from the table and take care of this. He did this out of love for each of them, even the one who was going to betray Him!

 

John 13:15-17:

For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”

 

Jesus had already had a similar discussion with the disciples when they were concerned about what position they would hold when Jesus established His kingdom.

 

Mark 10:42-45:

“Calling them to Himself, Jesus said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them. 43 But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; 44 and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

 

So, if the Savior of the world did that for us, why are we not doing the same thing for Him and for each other?

 
 
 
 
2. How can we develop the heart of a servant?

 

A. Recognize we cannot achieve this on our own.

 

Philippians 2:1-4:

“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.”

 

We need the power of the Holy Spirit and His guidance. We are not naturally wired this way. Man is by nature a sinner (Romans 3:23). We have to surrender our own wants, desires and ambitions to selflessly put the needs of others ahead of our own.

 

Have the right attitude

 

Philippians 2:5-7:

“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.”

 

Jesus surrendered totally to the Father’s will. He was not motivated by personal gain or recognition, but wanted people to see the Father’s love and compassion in everything that He said and did. He wanted to bring God glory! Are we not to do the same?

Look at David, known as a man after God’s own heart. He demonstrated his love for his fellow man and his faith in God’s promises when he went out to face Goliath.

 

1 Samuel 17:37a:

“…The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”

 

3. What are the benefits of having the heart of a servant?

 
A. It aligns our hearts with God’s heart and His desire to love and serve others.

 

John 13:34-35:

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

 

If we are going to talk the talk, we have to walk the walk. They will know that we love them when we show that we love them. That is why we need to the Holy Spirit to help us discern when we are to love gently, or love strongly, even in spite of how they are treating us.

 
B. We are then able to see beyond ourselves and cultivated a spirit of gratitude and contentment as we find purpose and fulfillment in serving instead of “what do I get out of this?”

 

Philippians 2:14-18:

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing; 15 so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. 18 You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.”

 

Paul was encouraging them to rejoice in everything (all things), even when he himself was being tried and tested. He was making this challenge to every believer. In many of his letters, Paul called himself a “bondservant”
A bondservant is defined in the time of the New Testament as someone who voluntarily moved from slave to this position to serve the master for the rest of their life because they loved them and wanted to give their lives to them.
 

When we become a Christian, we are freed from the slavery of sin and are to serve Christ as our Lord and King, not out of duty, but out of love.

When Jesus was with the disciples, He never asked them to do something that He was not willing to do Himself. He told them what He wanted them to do, He showed them how to do it, He did it with them, He sent them out to do it and come back to give him a report so He could rejoice with them, then He told them they were to continue to do the work when He left. That type of role model is a “servant leader”.

 

ILLUS: Jim Baich, my brother-in-law; Pastor Jerry (how fortunate we are!)

 

So today I have told you:

  • What it means to have the heart of a servant
  • How we can develop the heart of a servant
  • What the benefits are of having the heart of a servant.

 

All of this starts with the heart! When we put our heart in alignment with God, we are able to recognize who we are in the relationship, get rid of the pride that would cause us to stumble and embrace the humility necessary to serve Him and how we are to serve others. We need to view serving others as a way of living and that it is an expression of worship to God. There is an old hymn “Joy in Serving Jesus” and the chorus say:

 

There is joy, joy, joy in serving Jesus, Joy that throbs within my heart

Every moment, every hour, As I draw upon His power,

There is joy, joy, joy that never shall depart

 

As followers of Christ, we all called to imitate Him, His servant heart, and strive to live selflessly and love abundantly. You will find that THAT is where you will find joy in your life. When we are Christ-centered, then we are able to be other-centered and not be self-centered.
 
 
 
 
(Video links should activate within a few days to a week)
 

You can watch this week’s message by clicking HERE.

 

You can watch the entire service including music by clicking HERE.

 

 
 

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27
Apr '24

Hymn: Build My Life

Posted on Apr 27, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

27
Apr '24

Day 1502

Today’s worship song focus :

Build My Life

 

Luke 6:47-48 (NASB95)          

 

“Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show
you whom he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a
foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that\
house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.”

 

Written and recorded by Paul Barrett in 2018, this worship song quickly rose become a powerful anthem of the church. The words declare who we are to put our trust in and how our faith will stand strong, even through the storms that may come our way. As we sing this song, we are recognizing who is the ultimate architect and foundation of our lives. We demonstrate our faith and trust in Him alone, knowing He will provide us with His love, strength and purpose.
 

I will build my life upon Your love, it is a firm foundation.

I will put my trust in You alone, and I will not be shaken.

 

We need to wake up to the fact that God is deserving of all our praise and adoration. When we humble ourselves to His plans and His ways, we will find that we are truly living a life of service to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

I Will Build My Life

 
Worthy of every song we could ever singWorthy of all the praise we could ever bringWorthy of every breath we could ever breatheWe live for You, oh, we live for You
 
Jesus, the Name above every other nameJesus, the only One who could ever saveWorthy of every breath we could ever breatheWe live for You, we live for You
 
Holy, there is no one like YouThere is none beside YouOpen up my eyes in wonderAnd show me who You areAnd fill me with Your heartAnd lead me in Your love to those around me
 
Jesus, the Name above every other nameJesus, the only One who could ever saveWorthy of every breath we could ever breatheWe live for You, oh, we live for You
 
Holy, there is no one like YouThere is none beside YouOpen up my eyes in wonderAnd show me who You areAnd fill me with Your heartAnd lead me in Your love to those around me
 
And I will build my life upon Your loveIt is a firm foundationAnd I will put my trust in You aloneAnd I will not be shakenAnd I will build my life upon Your loveIt is a firm foundationAnd I will put my trust in You aloneAnd I will not be shaken
 
Holy, there is no one like YouThere is none beside YouOpen up my eyes in wonderAnd show me who You areAnd fill me with Your heartAnd lead me in Your love to those around me
 
I will build my life upon You
 
Lead me in Your love
 
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Matthew James Redman / Kirby Kaple / Brett Steven Younker / Joseph Patrick Martin Barrett / Karl Felix Martin
Build My Life lyrics © Worshiptogether.com Songs, Sixsteps Music, Said And Done Music,
Thank you Music Ltd., Capitol Cmg Genesis, Bethel Music Publishing, Housefires Sounds, Kaplemusic
 
 

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20
Apr '24

Hymn: Blest Be the Ties That Bind

Posted on Apr 20, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

20
Apr '24

Today’s worship song focus :

Blest Be the Tie that Binds

 Galatians 3:28 (NASB95)          

 

 

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is

neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

 

John Fawcett was born in 1740 and was orphaned at the age of twelve. Upon hearing a message from evangelist George Whitefield at the age of 16, he felt a call to full time ministry. He received his training in the Baptist Church where he was later ordained as a minister in Wainsgate, Yorkshire. He later married his wife Mary, and they led a small rural church in Wainsgate. The church grew, as did his reputation as a pastor, and he was asked to move to a larger church in London. On the day they were to leave, his wife said she could not go, and he felt the same. So they unpacked their wagon and stayed. The following Sunday, he wrote this hymn to go along with his sermon.

 

Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love;

The fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above.

 

We need to wake up to the realization that it is the love of God that binds our hearts to one another. We need to have the determination to love people through every circumstance, even those that try to pull us apart. We will find that it will make us stronger and that we are truly loving as God loves us.

 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 

Blest Be the Tie That Binds

 
1 Blest be the tie that binds
our hearts in Christian love;
the fellowship of kindred minds
is like to that above.
 
2 Before our Father’s throne
we pour our ardent prayers;
our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
our comforts and our cares.
 
3 We share our mutual woes,
our mutual burdens bear,
and often for each other flows
the sympathizing tear.
 
4 When we are called to part,
it gives us inward pain;
but we shall still be joined in heart,
and hope to meet again.
 
5 This glorious hope revives
our courage by the way;
while each in expectation lives
and waits to see the day.
 
6 From sorrow, toil, and pain,
and sin, we shall be free;
and perfect love and friendship reign
through all eternity.
 
 

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13
Apr '24

Hymn: Speak to the Mountains

Posted on Apr 13, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

13
Apr '24

Today’s worship song focus :

Speak to the Mountains

 

I John 4:4 (NASB95)          

 

“You are from God, little children, and have overcome them;
because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.

 

Chris McClarney wrote this song from a season of personal struggles in his own life. After experiencing moments of fear, doubt and uncertainty, he wanted to share a message of hope, faith and unwavering belief in God’s ability to overcome every obstacle in our lives. Reminding his fellow Christian believers of the transformative power of speaking faith-filled words over our lives. By declaring God’s promises and standing firm in our faith, we are able to shift our perspective and find that we can overcome any obstacle that we may encounter.
 

Why would I worry when giants come calling my name?
My God is so much bigger than troubles I face

 

We need to wake up our worship and allow this song to ignite our faith and provide us with a renewed peace and confidence that God is bigger than any of our circumstances and experience the profound shift in our perspective of who is truly in control! His name is I AM!
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 

Speak to the Mountains

 
Why would I worryWhen giants come calling my name?My God is so much bigger than troubles I faceWhy would I hungerFor power or riches or fame?Oh, ’cause my God is so much better than all of these things
 
So I won’t be shakenI won’t be movedMy God is faithfulHis promise is trueSo I’ll speak to the mountains“Oh, it’s time to move‘Cause my God is bigger, better, stronger, greater than you”
 
My enemies scatter‘Cause they know the battle is doneMy God is stronger, the victory’s already wonYeah, He died for my ransomAnd rose up on the third dayOh, ’cause my God is greater than death, hell, and the grave
 
Oh, I won’t be shakenOh, I won’t be movedMy God is faithfulHis promise is trueSo I speak to the mountains“Oh, it’s time to move‘Cause my God is bigger, better, stronger, greater than you” oh
 
There’s no mountain too highNo valley too lowThere’s no fear that I haveHe doesn’t already knowThere’s no problem too bigThere’s no weapon too strong
There is nothing for God that’s impossible
 
There’s no mountain too highNo valley too lowThere’s no fear that I haveHe doesn’t already knowThere’s no problem too bigThere’s no weapon too strongThere is nothing for God that’s impossible(Nothing’s impossible)
 
I won’t be shakenNo, I won’t be movedMy God is faithful (oh, He’s so faithful)His promise is trueSo I speak to the mountains“Oh, it’s time to move‘Cause my God is bigger, better, stronger, greaterBigger, better, stronger, greaterBigger, better, stronger, greaterBigger, better, stronger, greaterBigger, better, stronger, greater than you”
 
 
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Ben Cantelon / Chris McClarney / Jane Williams / Whitney Taylor Medina
Speak To The Mountains lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing, Essential Music Publishing

 


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06
Apr '24

Hymn: God of Wonders

Posted on Apr 6, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

06
Apr '24
Seize the Moment – Day 1481
 

Today’s worship song focus :  

God of Wonders

 

Psalm 148:13 (NASB95)          

 

“Let them praise the name of the Lord,
For His name alone is exalted; His

glory is above earth and heaven.”

 

This song was written in early 2000 for the City on a Hill worship album by Steve Hindalong and Mark Byrd. Upon hearing the opening chords and Marc singing “hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth” Steve felt a stirring in his soul that this song had to have a loftier language than what they were typically inclined to use. Wanting the song to be a clear declaration of Who God is and what He means to us, the words seemed to flow quickly onto the paper. They asked Max Powell of Third Day to sing lead on this song which spread quickly throughout the Christian community as an anthem of worship.
 

God of wonders beyond our galaxy, You are holy, holy                                          

The universe declares Your majesty, You are holy, holy                                           

Lord of heaven and earth, Lord of heaven and earth.

 

We need to wake up to the fact that the Maker of all creation wants to share an intimate relationship with each of his children! When we call out His name, the Savior recognizes our voice. For not only do we know the Shepherd’s voice, but He knows ours as well!
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

God of Wonders

 
Lord of all creationLord of water, earth and skyThe heavens are your TabernacleGlory to the Lord on high
 
God of wonders beyond our galaxyYou are holy, holyThe universe declares Your majestyYou are holy, holyLord of heaven and earthLord of heaven and earth
 
Early in the morningI will celebrate the lightAs I stumble in the darknessI will call your name by night
 
God of wonders beyond our galaxyYou are holy, holyThe universe declares Your majestyYou are holy, holy
 
Lord of heaven and earthLord of heaven and earthLord of heaven and earthLord of heaven and earth
 
Hallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earth
 
The God of wonders beyond our galaxy (You)You are holy, holyPrecious Lord, reveal Your heart to meFather, holy, holy (Lord God Almighty)
 
The universe declares Your majesty (You are holy)You are holy (yes you are), holy (holy You are)Holy (Jesus saves), holy
 
Hallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earthHallelujah! To the Lord of heaven and earth
 
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Steve J. Hindalong / Marc Byrd
God of Wonders lyrics © Never Say Never Songs, Meaux Mercy Publishing, Storm Boy Music, New Spring Publishing Inc
 
.

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30
Mar '24

Hymn: House of the Lord

Posted on Mar 30, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

30
Mar '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1474

Today’s worship song focus :

House of the Lord

Psalm 122:1 (NASB95)     

 

“ I was glad when they said to me,

“Let us go to the house of the Lord.”
 

Written in 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, Phil Wickham created this powerful song of worship as an anthem for all believers. Wanting to connect the church to the heart of God with the invitation to experience his love and grace, Phil composed the beautiful lyrics, moving melody and powerful instrumentals to remind the church that it is more than just a physical building. It is to be a place where we gather to worship, be encouraged, and experience the presence of God.

 

There’s joy in the house of the Lord,

There’s joy in the house of the Lord today       

And we won’t be quiet, We shout out Your praise.                                               

There’s joy in the house of the Lord,

Our God is surely in this place                

And we won’t be quiet,

We shout out Your praise.

 

We need to wake up and prepare our hearts for worship as we gather together tomorrow to celebrate Easter Sunday! We need to join our voices with other believers in declaring “He is Risen! He is risen indeed!” So shout out your praise!

 

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

House of the Lord

 
We worship the God who wasWe worship the God who isWe worship the God who evermore will beHe opened the prison doorsHe parted the raging seaMy God, He holds the victory
 
There’s joy in the house of the LordThere’s joy in the house of the Lord todayAnd we won’t be quietWe shout out Your praise
 
There’s joy in the house of the LordOur God is surely in this placeAnd we won’t be quietWe shout out Your praise(Oh-oh, oh) we shout out Your praise(Oh-oh, oh)
 
We sing to the God who healsWe sing to the God who savesWe sing to the God who always makes a way‘Cause He hung up on that crossThen He rose up from that graveMy God’s still rolling stones away
 
There’s joy in the house of the LordThere’s joy in the house of the Lord todayAnd we won’t be quietWe shout out Your praise
 
There’s joy in the house of the LordOur God is surely in this placeAnd we won’t be quietWe shout out Your praise
 
We were the beggarsNow we’re royaltyWe were the prisonersNow we’re running freeWe are forgiven, acceptedRedeemed by His graceLet the house of the Lord sing praise
 
‘Cause we were the beggarsNow we’re royaltyWe were the prisonersNow we’re running freeWe are forgiven, acceptedRedeemed by His graceLet the house of the Lord sing praise
 
There’s joy in the house of the Lord (there is joy in the house)There’s joy in the house of the Lord todayAnd we won’t be quiet (oh yeah)We shout out Your praise (I wanna shout out Your praise)
 
There’s joy in the house of the Lord (there is joy)Our God is surely in this place (there is joy)And we won’t be quietWe shout out Your praise (we gonna shout out Your praise)
 
There’s joy in the house of the LordThere’s joy in the house of the Lord todayAnd we won’t be quietWe shout out Your praise (we gonna shout out Your praise)
 
There’s joy in the house of the Lord (there is joy, there is joy)Our God is surely in this place (joy in this place)And we won’t be quiet (we won’t be quiet)We shout out Your praise
 
We shout out Your praiseThere is joy in the house, there is joy in the house todayWe shout out Your praiseWe shout out Your praise
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jonathan Smith / Phil Wickham
House of the Lord lyrics © Be Essential Songs
 
 
 
 

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23
Mar '24

Hymn: Hosanna (Praise is Rising)

Posted on Mar 23, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

23
Mar '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1467

Today’s worship song focus :

Hosanna (Praise is Rising)

Mark 11:8-10 (NASB95)

 

 

“And many spread their coats in the road, and others spread leafy branches which
they had cut from the fields. Those who went in front and those who followed were
shouting: “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord; Blessed is
the coming kingdom of our father David; Hosanna in the highest!”

 

Inspired by a desire to write a song that expresses adoration and a surrender to God, Paul Baloche and Brenton Brown teamed up to create this powerful and impactful song. It encourages believers to be like those who proclaimed Jesus’s entry into the city, lifting up their voices in recognition and declaring who the Messiah is as the one who came to save us, our Lord and Savior!

 

Hosanna hosanna
You are the God who saves us
Worthy of all our praises
Hosanna hosanna.
Come have Your way among us
We welcome You here Lord Jesus
 

We need to wake up and make this song one that we sing all week long as we prepare for Holy Week with the start of Palm Sunday tomorrow. Use this powerful song as part of your personal worship and express your love and adoration to God for sending us the Blessed Messiah! Let your praise rise up!

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 

Hosanna (Praising Rising)

 
Praise is rising, eyes are turning to You, we turn to YouHope is stirring, hearts are yearning for You, we long for You‘Cause when we see You we find strength to face the dayIn Your presence all our fears are washed away, washed away
 
Hosanna, HosannaYou are the God who saves us Worthy of all our praisesHosanna, HosannaCome have Your way among usWe welcome You here, Lord Jesus
 
Hear the sound of hearts returning to You, we turn to YouIn Your Kingdom broken lives are made new, You make us new‘Cause when we see You we find strength to face the dayIn Your presence all our fears are washed away, washed away
 
Hosanna, HosannaYou are the God who saves us Worthy of all our praisesHosanna, HosannaCome have Your way among us We welcome You here, Lord Jesus
 
‘Cause when we see You, we find strength to face the dayIn Your Presence all our fears are washed away‘Cause when we see You, we find strength to face the dayIn Your Presence all our fears are washed away, washed away
 
Hosanna, HosannaYou are the God who saves us Worthy of all our praisesHosanna, HosannaCome have Your way among us We welcome You here, Lord Jesus
 
Hosanna, HosannaYou are the God who saves us Worthy of all our praisesHosanna, HosannaCome have Your way among us We welcome You here, Lord Jesus
 
Hosanna, HosannaHosanna, Hosanna
Source: LyricFind
 
Songwriters: Brenton Brown / Paul Baloche
Hosanna lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing, Integrity Music
 

 


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16
Mar '24

Hymn: The Blessing

Posted on Mar 16, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

16
Mar '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1460

Today’s worship song focus :

The Blessing

 Numbers 6:24-26 (NASB95)

 
 
 
“ The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;  
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’

 

Taken from the priestly benediction of Numbers 6 and the prayerful blessing of Psalm 67, Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, Steven Furtick and Chris Brown created this anthem of hope and encouragement for all believers in the spring of 2020. We are reminded of God’s faithfulness and unfailing love for us with this message of peace and assurance even in the middle of our chaos.

 

The Lord bless you and keep you

Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you

The Lord turn His face toward you

And give you peace                  

 

We need to wake up and be reminded of this declaration of favor, peace and God’s presence in and over our lives! And by singing the “Amens”, which literally means ‘so be it’ or ‘let it be so’, we are joining our faith with others that we want this for our lives and their lives as well.
 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ55mDL7dA0

 

The Blessing

 
The Lord bless you and keep youMake His face shine upon you and be gracious to youThe Lord turn His face toward youAnd give you peace
 
The Lord bless you and keep youMake His face shine upon you and be gracious to youThe Lord turn His face toward youAnd give you peace
 
Amen, amen, amenAmen, amen, amen
 
The Lord bless you and keep youMake His face shine upon you and be gracious to youThe Lord turn His face toward youAnd give you peace
 
Amen, amen, amenAmen, amen, amenAmen, amen, amenAmen, amen, amen
 
May His favor be upon youAnd a thousand generationsAnd your family and your childrenAnd their children, and their children
 
May His favor be upon youAnd a thousand generationsAnd your family and your childrenAnd their children, and their children
 
May His favor be upon youAnd a thousand generationsAnd your family and your childrenAnd their children, and their children
 
May His favor be upon youAnd a thousand generationsAnd your family and your childrenAnd their children, and their children
 
May His presence go before youAnd behind you, and beside youAll around you, and within youHe is with you, he is with you
 
In the morning, in the eveningIn your coming, and your goingIn your weeping, and rejoicingHe is for you, he is for you
 
He is for you, he is for youHe is for you, he is for youHe is for you, he is for you
(Amen, amen)
 
Amen, amen, amenAmen, amen, amen
 
May His favor be upon youAnd a thousand generationsAnd your family and your childrenAnd their children, and their children
 
May His presence go before youAnd behind you, and beside youAll around you, and within youHe is with you, he is with you
 
In the morning, in the eveningIn your coming, and your goingIn your weeping, and rejoicingHe is for you, He is for you
 
Ohh
 
He is for you (ohh)
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Chris Brown / Steven Furtick / Cody Carnes / Kari Brooke Jobe
The Blessing lyrics © Worship Together Music, Capitol Cmg Paragon,
Be Essential Songs, Kari Jobe Carnes Music, Writers Roof Publishing
 
 
 

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09
Mar '24

Hymn: Praise

Posted on Mar 9, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

09
Mar '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1453

Today’s worship song focus

Praise

Psalm 150:6 (NASB95)     

 

 

“ Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!

Praise the Lord!”

 

Released in the fall of 2023, Brandon Lake, Chandler Moore and Elevation Worship wanted to create a song that would establish a feeling of joy and celebration. Taken from today’s scripture, as long as we are breathing, we have a reason to praise the Lord. In good times or bad, we are to praise. Praise is not only to bring glory to God, but also a powerful weapon against our enemies and a source of strength. This demonstrates our declaration of faith whether we feel God’s presence or not. When we praise, we not only remind ourselves that He is always with us, but we also put the enemy on notice that God is there too!
  
As long as I’m breathing, I’ve got a reason to praise, Oh my soul                          
Praise the Lord, Oh my soul. I won’t be quiet, my God is alive                                
How could I keep it inside, Praise the Lord, oh my soul               

 

We need to wake up and make this an anthem of encouragement, especially during challenging times. This song is a reminder that we are not alone and it helps us to shift our focus from the circumstance to the fact that God is in control! This is a truth we should not keep to ourselves!

 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

Praise

 
Let’s go, one, two, heyLet everything that has breathPraise the Lord (you got it), praise the LordLet everything, let everything that has breathPraise the Lord, praise the Lord
 
I’ll praise in the valley, praise on the mountain (yeah)I’ll praise when I’m sure, praise when I’m doubtingI’ll praise when outnumbered, praise when surrounded‘Cause praise is the waters my enemies drown in
 
As long as I’m breathingI’ve got a reason toPraise the Lord, oh my soul (c’mon)Praise the Lord, oh my soul
 
I’ll praise when I feel it, and I’ll praise when I don’t (yeah)I’ll praise ’cause I know You’re still in control‘Cause my praise is a weapon, it’s more than a sound (more than a sound)Oh, my praise is the shout that brings Jericho down (yeah)
 
As long as I’m breathingI’ve got a reason toPraise the Lord (c’mon), oh my soulPraise the Lord, oh my soulI won’t be quiet, my God is aliveSo how could I keep it inside? (I gotta)Praise the Lord, oh my soul(Yeah, praise the Lord)
 
C’mon let me see that dance, put a dance on it tonight (yeah)If you’re grateful, c’monHey, hey, yeah
 
I’ll praise ’cause You’re sovereign, praise ’cause You reignPraise ’cause You rose and defeated the graveI’ll praise ’cause You’re faithful, praise ’cause You’re truePraise ’cause there’s nobody greater than YouI’ll praise ’cause You’re sovereign, praise ’cause You reign (you reign)Praise ’cause You rose and defeated the graveI’ll praise ’cause You’re faithful, praise ’cause You’re truePraise ’cause there’s nobody greater than You
 
Praise the Lord, oh my soul(C’mon, c’mon, c’mon, c’mon)Praise the Lord, oh my soul (praise the Lord, oh my soul)Praise the Lord, oh my soulPraise the Lord, oh my soulI won’t be quiet, my God is aliveHow could I keep it inside? (How could I)I won’t be quiet, my God is aliveHow could I keep it inside? (I won’t keep quiet)I won’t be quiet, my God is aliveHow could I keep it inside? (I gotta)Praise the Lord, oh my soul
 
Jump, jump, jump, jump, jumpLet everything that has breath (hey, hey)Praise the Lord (hey, hey), praise the LordLet everything, let everything (c’mon, c’mon)that has breath (c’mon, c’mon)Praise the Lord (c’mon, c’mon)Praise the Lord (Let everything), let everything (if you got breath in your body)That has breath (if you got breath in your body)Praise the Lord (praise the Lord, c’mon) praise the Lord(Let everything), let everything that has breath (that has breath)(Praise the Lord)Praise the Lord (praise), praise the Lord
 
 
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Brandon Lake / Chandler Moore / Chris Brown / Cody Carnes / Pat Barrett / Steven Furtick
Praise lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing, Essential Music Publishing

 

 

 


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03
Mar '24

Heart of a Child

Posted on Mar 3, 2024 by Ken Durham in General, Sermon Notes, Special Message |

03
Mar '24

Heart of a Child

Matthew 18:1-5

 
 
Over the past few weeks, we have been on a journey through the scriptures. And while today’s message is not part of Pastor Jerry’s series, we are still accountable to this 90 day challenge, so I need to ask these questions:

 

  • Are you currently up to 2 Corinthians 9? Y or N
  • Are you using the S.O.A.P technique? Y or N
  • Pray and meditate on the Lord’s prayer? Y or N
  • Did you memorize Matthew 11:28-30? Y or N
  • Did you work with Jesus (not for Him),do everything for His glory, and truly abide with Him? Y or N

 

Today’s scripture was one of those that “jumped out” at me during this current challenge. The disciples have been with Jesus now for over two years. They had heard His teachings, witnessed His miracles and had even seen thing happen in their own time of ministry. But this scripture points out just how ‘human’ the disciples were…and it can also be found in Mark 9:33-37 and Luke 9:46-48.

 

Turn to Matthew 18:1-5.
 

About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.  And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.”

 

The other Gospel accounts say that the boys were “discussing” (Mark) or “arguing among themselves” (Luke). In their minds, they saw Jesus establishing His kingdom on earth while He was on earth. They saw Him gaining popularity with the people, so they were jockeying for position in this new Kingdom. Jesus used this example of a young child to set these boys straight.

 

I don’t know about you, but ‘adulting’ can be tough sometimes and I would love to be like a little child with no responsibilities. To be able to be carefree, play games and enjoy life. I remember playing with my boys when they were kids, and now being able to repeat that with my grandkids.

Playing games like “Peek-a-boo”    (tell ‘dad joke’ here)

 

Or “Hide-n-seek”, not the one where you tell them to go hide, and then ‘forget’ to go seek them…but where they are able to use their creative thought processes to find a spot to hide where you would least expect to find them.

 

Adam and Eve were the first ones to play Hide and Seek…not a good outcome. But God came up with a plan to seek and save that which was lost.

 

So for today, I would like for each of you to find the ‘inner child’ inside each and every one of us and become the child of God we are called to be. Let’s look at the scriptures on how we have our own version of ‘Hide and Seek’:

 

  1. Hide His Word (Psalm 119:11)
  2. Hide to seek (Matthew 6:6)
  3. Seek to find (Matthew 6:33)

 

1. Hide His Word

 

Psalm 119:11:  “I have hidden your word in my heart,
    that I might not sin against you.”

 

Much like when you save money back in a safe place to be able to buy a big ticket item, the same is true when we mediate and memorize God’s Word.

 

But once they are discovered, we are not to keep them to ourselves. When we make them a part of our lives, it needs to be shared and be evident in everything that we do.

 

Psalm 78:4:    “We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders.”

 

This echoes Deuteronomy 6:1-9; Deuteronomy 11:19 & Proverbs 23:13-14.

 

       How will they know unless we tell them???

 

2. Hide to Seek

 

Matthew 6:6:  “But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”

 

Find a place to get away from the distractions of this life.

       Jesus did it, so you need to also!!! (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16)

 

              Bible, paper and pen

              Turn off the music, the phone, any distraction.

              There is a time for the music/worship, but you also need the “BE STILL” time.

 

ILLUS:     Intentional Time:  Sabbatical: Katie Kinnaird

TBH….this is a difficult one for me.

Does not come naturally for me. I have to be intentional!
 
 

3. Seek to Find

 

Matthew 6:33:   “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”

 

       Other translations…”Seek FIRST..”

 

       The worlds says there is a proper order for things…. First things first!

 

*This idiom is used to tell someone that more important things should be done before less important things.

 

With God, we are told to keep Him first, seek Him and we are promised that we will find Him.

 

Matthew 7:7-8:  “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

 

This is in no way a one and done thing

We have to daily be working on this, especially for us slow learners!

 

The benefit of seeking and finding…

 

John 14:21:  “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

 

God never hides from us. He will hide us under His wings (Ps. 17:8),
He will hide us in the cleft of the rock (Ex 33:22)
and promises to draw near to us as we draw near to Him (James 4:8).
He has given us the free will to choose to seek Him, and that is what we have to do. (Ps. 119:2).

 

No matter how “old” we get, may we always have the heart of a child that is humble and full of faith.
 
 
 
 
 

To watch the video for this message, click HERE.

 
 
 

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02
Mar '24

Hymn: First Things First

Posted on Mar 2, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

02
Mar '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1446

Today’s worship song focus :

First Things First

Revelation 2:4-5a (NASB95)     

 
 
 
But I have this against you,
that you have left your first love.
Therefore remember from where you have fallen,

and repent and do the deeds you did at first;”

 

The brotherly trio of Caleb, Jordan and Josh Ward make up the group “Consumed by Fire”. They grew up traveling with their father who was an evangelist, serving others through church planting and medical missions. After their father had a catastrophic stroke, the boys took a hiatus to care for him. Following his passing in the spring of 2022, they reemerged with a fresh passion and commitment to the calling of their ministry through song. Jordan said this song “spearheaded the creation of a new direction for us… We’re saying, ‘Lord, we want what You want.’”

 

First thing’s first I seek Your will Not my own
Surrender all my wants to you Keep the first thing first

 

We need to wake up and take the words of this song as a prayer for our own lives. By returning our hearts to our first love, Jesus, we are then moved to love others in the way that He loves us!

 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 

First Things First

 
All the things that I have held dearThe vanities that whispered in my earWhat would I do if they all disappeared
 
Riches and fame and all that they could buyI’ve come to find they never satisfyWhat would I gain if my soul’s the price
 
I don’t wanna love what the world lovesI don’t wanna chase what the world doesI only want youI only want you
 
First thing’s firstI seek Your willNot my ownSurrender all my wants to youKeep the first thing firstTo live Your truthWalk Your waysSet my eyesLord I fix my face on youAll my desires reversedTo keep the first thing first
 
I give it allMy life an offeringMy heart is yoursSo have Your way in meYour kingdom’s all I wanna seek
 
I don’t wanna love what the world lovesI don’t wanna chase what the world doesI only want youI only want you
 
First thing’s firstI seek Your willNot my ownSurrender all my wants to youKeep the first thing firstTo live Your truthWalk Your waysSet my eyesLord I fix my face on youAll my desires reversed
To keep the first thing first
 
To keep the first thing firstAll my desires reversedTo keep the first thing firstTo keep the first thing first
 
First thing’s firstI seek Your willNot my ownSurrender all my wants to youKeep the first thing firstTo live Your truthWalk Your waysSet my eyesLord I fix my face on youAll my desires reversedTo keep the first thing firstTo keep the first thing firstTo keep the first thing first
 
All my desires reversedTo keep the first thing first
 
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jordan David Ward / Caleb Paul Ward / Jake Hess / Grant Timothy Bias
 

 

 

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24
Feb '24

Hymn: Every Move I Make

Posted on Feb 24, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

24
Feb '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1439

Today’s worship song focus :

Every Move I Make

 

Psalm 139:1-3 (NASB95)     

“ O Lord, You have searched me and known me.

2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;

You understand my thought from afar.

3 You scrutinize my path and my lying down,

And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.”

 

Written by David Ruis and recorded by David Crowder Band in 1999, this energetic song of worship reflects our faith and trust in God’s plan. We are reminded that He is our guide, our protector and our source of strength because of His constant presence in our lives.

 

            Every move I make, I make in You, You make me move Jesus

            Every breath I take I breathe in You.

            Every step I take I take in You, You are my way Jesus

            Every breath I take I breathe in You.

 

We need to wake up and live our lives in alignment with God’s will each day. Then you will find joy and purpose as you surrender your will to His and move the way He wants for you. For He is the One who orders our steps.
 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPvnZILn6EY

 

Every Move I Make

 
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
 
Every move I make, I make in you
You make me move, (Jesus)
Every breath I take I breath in you
Every step I take, I take in you
You are my way (Jesus)
Every breath I take I breath in you
 
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
 
Every move I make, I make in you
You make me move, (Jesus)
Every breath I take I breath in you
 
Every step I take, I take in you
You are my way (Jesus)
Every breath I take I breath in you
 
Waves of mercy Waves of grace
Everywhere I look I see your face
Your love has captured me
Oh my God, this love, how can it be?
 
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
 
Every move I make, I make in you
You make me move, (Jesus)
Every breath I take I breath in you
 
Every step I take, I take in you
You are my way (Jesus)
Every breath I take I breath in you
 
Waves of mercy Waves of grace
Everywhere I look I see your face
Your love has captured me
Oh my God, this love, how can it be?
 
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
Na Na Na, Na Na Na Na Na Na
 
 
 

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17
Feb '24

Hymn: Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Posted on Feb 17, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

17
Feb '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1432

Today’s worship song focus :

Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Isaiah 58:11 (NASB95)     

 
 
 
 
“ And the Lord will continually guide you,

And satisfy your desire in scorched places,

And give strength to your bones;

And you will be like a watered garden,

And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.”

 

Today’s hymn was written in 1745 by William Williams, originally in Welsh, and later translated into the song we know today. Williams was studying to be a doctor when he encountered the preaching of Howell Harris, which led to his conversion. It was then that he gave up his studies to seek his ordination in the Established Church. He used the beautiful imagery of the Old Testament book of Exodus to show God’s guidance and provision through the strife and how it continues today.

 

              Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah, Pilgrim through this barren land.

              I am week, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand.

 

We need to wake up and affirm in our own lives that God provides for us and redeems all wrong in the world. Hold fast to His promises that are yes and amen! No matter what you are facing, He is there to guide you through it!
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 

Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

 
1.
Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,
Pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but Thou art mighty;
Hold me with Thy powerful hand.
Bread of heaven,
Bread of heaven,
Feed me now and evermore;
Feed me now and evermore.
 
2.
Open now the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing waters flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer,
Strong Deliverer,
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.
 
3.
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside;
Death of death, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises,
Songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee;
I will ever give to Thee.
 
(Repeat 3)
 
Ending
Songs of praises,
Songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee;
I will ever give to Thee.
 

©2002 2037 Music (ASCAP).admin. by The Loving Company.Used by permission. All rights reserved.

 
 
 
 

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10
Feb '24

Hymn: Everlasting God

Posted on Feb 10, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

10
Feb '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1425

Today’s worship song focus :

Everlasting God

 

Isaiah 40:31 (NASB95)     

 

“Yet those who wait for the Lord

Will gain new strength;

They will mount up with wings like eagles,

They will run and not get tired,

They will walk and not become weary.”

 

Written in the summer of 2006 by Lincoln Brewster and Brenton Brown, this song was inspired by the passage in Isaiah 40 and a season of personal struggle in Brenton’s life. Carrying a powerful message of hope and encouragement, we, the worshipper, are reminded of God’s everlasting nature and His promise that He will provide the strength and renewal for us when we put our trust in Him.

 

You are the everlasting God, the everlasting God, You do not faint

You won’t grow weary, You’re the defender of the weak

You comfort those in need, You lift us up on wings like eagles.

 

We need to wake up and quit rushing through the day. Take the time to put God first and wait in His presence. Remember that resting in Him will provide you with His unwavering strength so that you are not relying on yourself and your strength alone.

 
 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

Everlasting God

 
Strength will rise as we wait upon the LordWe will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the LordStrength will rise as we wait upon the LordWe will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
 
Our God, You reign foreverOur hope, our strong Deliverer
 
You are the everlasting GodThe everlasting GodYou do not faintYou won’t grow weary
 
Strength will rise as we wait upon the LordWe will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the LordStrength will rise as we wait upon the LordWe will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
 
Our God, You reign foreverOur hope, our strong Deliverer
 
You are the everlasting GodThe everlasting GodYou do not faintYou won’t grow weary
 
You’re the defender of the weakYou comfort those in needYou lift us up on the wingsLike eagles
 
Our God, You reign foreverOur hope, our strong Deliverer
 
‘Cause You are, You are the everlasting GodThe everlasting GodYou do not faintYou won’t grow weary
 
You’re the defender of the weakYou comfort those in needYou lift us up on the wingsLike eagles
 
From everlasting to everlastingGod, You are everlasting
 
 
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Brenton Brown / Ken Riley
Everlasting God – Low Key Performance Track
Without Background Vocals lyrics
© Thank You Music Ltd.
 
 
 
 

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03
Feb '24

Hymn: They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love

Posted on Feb 3, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

03
Feb '24
Seize the Moment – Day 1418
Today’s worship song focus :

They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love

John 13:35 (NASB95)            

 

“ By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

 

A favorite song of the late 1960’s and early 70’s, it was written by a young Catholic priest by the name of Peter Raymond Scholtes. Taken from the words that Jesus gave His disciples in John 13, Scholtes wanted to show the connection between the church and its role in the life of the world. While it had a folk style of music, he wanted to connect the faith story of the church’s young people to the disheartened landscape of the culture in America.

 

And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

 

We need to wake up and take to heart the words of this song. It is an important part of the message of grace, hope and love that we are to share with our part of the world and beyond. That is when we will truly see our mission of transforming stories through the gospel of Jesus Christ being fulfilled.

 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click HERE

 
 

They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love

 
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord.
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord.
And we pray that all unity, may one day be restored.
 
(Chorus)
And they’ll know we are Christians,
By our love, by our love.
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
 

We will walk with each other, will walk hand in hand,
We will walk with each other, will walk hand in hand,
And together we’ll spread the news, that God is in our land

 

We will work with each other, we will work side by side,
We will work with each other, we will work side by side
And we’ll save each man’s dignity, and guard each man’s pride.

 

All praise to the Father, from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, God’s only Son
And all praise to the Spirit, Who makes us one.

 

 
 

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27
Jan '24

Hymn: Revelation Song

Posted on Jan 27, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

27
Jan '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1411

Today’s worship song focus will be

Revelation Song

Revelation 4:8 (NASB95)

 

“ Each of these living beings had six wings, and their wings were covered all
over with eyes, inside and out. Day after day and night after night they keep on
saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty— the one who always
was, who is, and who is still to come.”
 
Written from a heartfelt desire to truly see the throne room of heaven being filled with worship, Jennie Lee Riddle began writing this song in the middle of “being a mom”…changing diapers, caring for kids and getting ready to make a spaghetti dinner. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, she began writing the words that painted a picture of what Revelation 4:8 describes and what it might look like. The words flowed as she became lost in her worship of the Most High God:

 

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, Holy, Holy is He
Sing a new song to Him who sits on Heaven’s mercy seat

 

We need to wake up with a new hunger and desire for more of God in our lives. Immerse yourself in worship today. Empty yourself of your own selfishness and allow the Holy Spirit to fill you up afresh and anew with the love and joy that can only come when we join with the angels in declaring “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty!”

 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 
 

Revelation Song

 
Worthy is the Lamb who was slainHoly, holy is HeSing a new song to Him who sits onHeaven’s mercy seat
 
Worthy is the Lamb who was slainHoly, holy is HeSing a new song to Him who sits onHeaven’s mercy seat
 
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God AlmightyWho was and is and is to comeWith all creation I sing praise to the King of kingsYou are my everything and I will adore You
 
Clothed in rainbows of living colorFlashes of lightning rolls of thunderBlessing and honor strength and glory and power beTo You the only one who’s King
 
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God AlmightyWho was and is and is to comeWith all creation I sing praise to the King of kingsYou are my everything and I will adore You
 
Filled with wonder awestruck wonderAt the mention of Your nameJesus Your name is power, breath and living waterSuch a marvelous mystery
 
OhOh, You’re worthy, mysteryYou are worthy
 
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God AlmightyWho was and is and is to comeWith all creation I sing praise to the King of kingsYou are my everything and I will adore YouI will adore You
 
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Jennie Lee RiddleRevelation Song lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing, Downtown Music Publishing, Integrity Music, TuneCore Inc.
 
 
 

 


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20
Jan '24

Hymn: Lavish

Posted on Jan 20, 2024 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

20
Jan '24

Seize the Moment – Day 1404

Today’s worship song focus will be

Lavish

 

Psalm 23:1-2 (NASB95)

 

                                                           

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside quiet waters.”       

 

Written and released in 2017 by Francesca Battistelli, Jeremy Redmon & Mike Weaver, it is easy to see that this song is based upon Psalm 23. It’s important to remember that before we had hymn books, the early church sang the scriptures. Just read through the book of Psalms and see the description of the chapters where it says “To the choirmaster: for the flutes. A Psalm of David” (Psalm 5). In fact, the word ‘psalm’ means a sacred song or hymn, especially one in which expressions of praise and thanksgiving are prominent.*

 

You are my shepherd, I shall not want.    

You make me lie down in green pastures.     

You lead me beside still waters

You restore my soul

 

We need to wake up each day with a song of praise in our hearts and on our lips. Think about how much better your day would go if you did this instead of grumbling at the alarm clock. God loves you and wants you to always have the best day, even when it may be dark and gloomy. Can you think of a better way to start your day?  

 
 
 

If you would like to receive a personal phone call today, all you have to do is dial the phone number below right now and one of us will call you soon.

 

YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.

 
 
 

If you would like to listen to this song, click on this link:

 

Lavish

 

You are my shepherd, I shall not want
You make me lie down in green pastures
You lead me beside still waters
You restore my soul

And though I walk through the valley
I won’t fear death’s shadow
Because I know You are with me

And the banner that’s over me
Is the love that has set me free
‘Cause You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me
And Your love conquers all my fear
Because Jesus You’re always near
‘Cause You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me

You pour out Your Spirit ’til I overflow
With peace in the midst of my trouble
You’re more than enough for my struggle
You are all I need

And though I walk through the valley
I won’t fear death’s shadow
Because I know You are with me

And the banner that’s over me
Is the love that has set me free
You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me
And Your love conquers all my fear
Because Jesus You’re always near
Oh You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me

Goodness and mercy will follow me all of my days
And I’ll make my home in Your presence now and always
Goodness and mercy will follow me all of my days
And I’ll make my home in Your presence now and always

And the banner that’s over me
Is the love that has set me free
‘Cause You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me
And Your love conquers all my fear
Because Jesus You’re always near
‘Cause You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me
‘Cause You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me
‘Cause You lavish Your love
You lavish Your love on me

 
 
 

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