December 20, 2009

 

NIGHT OF NIGHTS     In the tiny town of Bethlehem, Born in a stable, an infant lie. While he slept his first dreamless night, A whole universe of stars passed by. When Jesus Christ our Savior was born Most of the angels began to sing, Of peace, and good will to all mankind, And alleluia to earth's new king. There were those angels, who did not sing, For they had passed through the devil's gate. They knew this young lad belonged to God, And for them salvation was too late. So let's rejoice, and sing with great cheer, That night when Jesus slept without fear. For our Lord's birthday comes once a year, On that night of nights we hold so dear. ~ Tom Zart ~

December 13, 2009

PLEASE LORD Please Lord I am down on my knees Help me now Lord help me please Times are rough, and the air is thick Help me now Lord I am sick I pray to you Lord help me now I don't know how to escape Lord tell me how Please help me get out of this mess Please Lord I want to be blessed I pray to you now Lord I also pray then When will this end Lord please tell me when The stress is catching up to be Please save me Lord and set me free I pray to you now Lord you are everywhere Where do I go Lord please tell me where I am lost right now unable to see Please Lord be here to guide me I pray to you now Lord up in the Sky Why must we suffer Lord please tell me why I know you are there making us strong Please Lord help me see what's wrong I pray to you now Lord do I make the cut? I open my heart to you Lord and guess what You protect me when things are bad and cheer me up when I am sad I pray to you now Lord what am I to do? Follow your will for you are the One who Died on the cross wiping away my sins So one day my eternal life with you begins   Brandon Auman

December 6, 2009

My Times are in Thy Hand Psalm 31:15 My times are in Thy hand, Such grace to sustain my way, Trusting all to what Thou in wisdom planned. Our Lord knows our need day by day. My times are in Thy hand, Such guidance to direct my way, Depending not on what I understand, But on Him Who keeps me lest I stray. My times are in Thy hand, Such goodness to bless my way, Providing from Thy storehouse at Thy Command Thy sweetness in glorious display. My times are in Thy hand, Such glory to delight my way, Displaying the riches of that Heavenly Land, That shall be mine when I am there to stay. ~ GENE GRIFFIN ~

November 29, 2009

WALKING LIKE JESUS Walking like Jesus - We're walking in love Wise as a serpent - Gentle as a dove. Walking like Jesus - Forgiving each other Never holding grudges against any brother. Walking like Jesus - We're filled with the Spirit And when we see evil - We do not go near it. Walking like Jesus - In might and in power We'll not suffer satan one day or one hour. Walking like Jesus - In unyielding faith We press toward the mark - To go in the Straight Gate. Walking like Jesus - And always in prayer He's taken our burdens - He really does care. Walking like Jesus - We have divine health Right standing with God and inherited wealth. Walking like Jesus - As sons of the King We abide in His Shadow and under His Wing. Walking like Jesus - In obedience to God Comforted always by His staff and His rod. Walking like Jesus - We die to the flesh Crucified with Him - And with him resurrect. Walking like Jesus - Giving praise to the Lord Wearing the armour and wielding the sword Walking like Jesus is our main goal in life And through Him we conquer tribulation and strife. Without the Lord Jesus - We are empty and hollow. We know the Lord's voice - And only Him will we follow. Robbin Milam Hall, 1981

November 15, 2009

The past few weeks we have been talking about "serving from your gifts." This discussion has caused all of us to realize that the work of God is really done best in the context of the local church body. We are all part of the body of Christ and we should keep contributing to the growth of the body by doing our function in love. Many times there is the temptation to try and focus on what is not being done and we forget what is being done. I am sure even though you are going through problems or trials you can focus on what is going right in your life or on your past victories. This should give you confidence for the future.

Sometimes we think that other people should be relating to people and making friends in the church. We especially expect those in leadership to take care of everybody in the church even though their plate may be full. Because we have such great expectations we may get discouraged and even forget that there are good things being done in our midst. The devil will seek to make you negative and pessimistic. The secret is to seek to draw your strength from the good things that are happening and focus on being faithful in your area of gifting. You can also pray that the leaders will see the need and come alongside you.

Let's be reminded of many people who are reaching out to help others all around us. If you are doing this I really commend you. Please keep up the good work! You are very important in the church and in the community where you live or work. Be the hands of God in every place.

As we enter this busy Christmas season I would like to ask you to think about the needs of other people. Are you willing to help meet their needs and trust God to meet yours? When you give of yourself, of your time etc to others, God will multiply and bless you. Prayerfully list down some of the things you sense God asking you to begin doing and slowly begin to step up to the plate and do them. You will be enriched by the experience.

Love Quotes "When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love." Rebecca- age 8 "If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate," Nikka - age 6 "Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well." Tommy - age 6 Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge. The purpose of the contest was to find the most caring child. The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbour was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbour, the little boy said, "Nothing, I just helped him cry"

November 1, 2009

Paul encourages believers not to be ignorant of spiritual gifts but to be informed about them and to discover their spiritual gifts, so that they can function within the context of the body of Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:1). The Bible teaches about different types of gifts: 1. Five ministry gifts (Ephesians 4:11). 2. Other ministry gifts (Romans 12:6-8). 3. Gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:8-11). God's will is that His children should operate under the anointing of God to be a blessing to one another and to be powerful witnesses concerning Christ to the lost world. To be effective in this manner the church should operate in spiritual gifts.

The context for the operation of spiritual gifts is body ministry. All the passages that teach about spiritual gifts emphasize the concept of the body. Christians are members of the body of Christ and they have been gifted to be a blessing to this body and together to the rest of the world. In Ephesians 4: 16. Paul writes, "From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Again in Romans 12: 4-5 he writes, "Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, ⁵so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others."

Further on he writes in 1 Corinthians 12:27-31: "²⁷Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." Peter in 1 Peter 4:9-10, encourages us to "⁹Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. ¹⁰Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms."

With all this in mind I would like to say that Christians should not compete for spiritual gifts or be envious (in a wrong way) of those who are operating in spiritual gifts. They should realize that they complement one another in ministry. They serve other believers with the gifts God has given them. The gifts are not for a show but for service. They are not ties that you wear but tools that you use to serve.

May you be free to serve in the area God has gifted you in and do not quench the Spirit in you. Allow others to learn from you as well as rejoice when there are more people who can do what you can do, for that spells multiplication and success. You can serve more people.

October 25, 2009

As we participate in what God is doing here at FIC I want to encourage you to continue in your commitment supporting God's work. We only have two months to go before the year ends. However the work of God carries on and we have to share the Gospel to all people groups in our communities and abroad.

You may ask yourself as to what you can do to help in spreading the good news of Christ to people. It begins with your own prayer life and dwelling in the word of God. It is during these moments that God speaks to us. You must also regularly fellowship with other Christians as this strengthens your faith. The Christian who isolates himself or herself from other faithful believers is in danger of being misled by the devil. Another practice is to let your life be an example for others, especially those who are seeking the truth. Your life becomes the book they can read about the goodness of God. Therefore be involved in the community where you live, work, study or conduct business. The other practical way of supporting God's work is to financially support God's work through tithes and offering.

A tithe is the spiritual principle of regularly setting aside a tenth of your income and offering it to God as a means of worship. Tithing is an act of worship and recognition of our dependence on God. By being faithful stewards of what God has given us we recognize that everything, ultimately, belongs to God and we are only care takers: "The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness" (Psalm 24:1). The Bible exhorts us to "Honour the Lord with your possessions and with the first fruits of all your increase" (Prov 3:9). This includes the use of a portion of our income for the glory of God, for the benefit of the kingdom, and for the furtherance of the gospel in the earth.

Other benefits of tithing are that it builds our faith as we learn to depend on God as our provider. Through tithing we provide financial support for the Ministry, the work of God. It means we participate in making sure that the Church has resources to carry out the work of the ministry.

Offerings are what we give over and above tithes. As God blesses us we also bless others through offerings. Through this many will be helped and they will praise God and recognize him as their provider. We become channels of blessings for God to bless people.

Thank you again for being faithful servants of God here at FIC. Every one of you is greatly appreciated and whatever contribution you make either practically, financially or spiritually goes a long way in helping us extend God's Kingdom.

October 18, 2009

Sometimes finding your place in the church (the body of Christ) can be a challenge. You may wonder how you can serve in the church. The beginning point is to be joined to a local body of believers that have put their faith Christ and are born again. This is where you begin or continue your spiritual journey which involves growing in your understanding of God's word and in becoming more like Christ.

It has to be understood that when we become Christians we have the righteousness of Christ but we are far from being perfect. We need to allow God to work in our lives through the Holy Spirit as we dwell in God's Word and in prayer. God also uses other people to speak into our lives. Through our dealings with other people we learn to love, to forgive and to be patient.

So in finding your place in the body of Christ you should begin by fellowshipping and worshiping with other Christians. Discover and continue to grow in your spiritual gifts. God has given you talents as an individual but he also grants spiritual gifts that have nothing to do with your talents. As a result of being joined to Christ and being filled with the Holy Spirit you are gifted to bless other people and to serve others. Some of the gifts that you may have are listed in Romans 12:6-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. Use these gifts in the church but remember that it is a growing experience as well.

The church has various areas you can serve in as an individual. Here are some areas you may be used in: Administration of church events, going on short term missions, organizing fundraising, visiting the sick and shut ins, serving in any of the local church ministries, welcoming and follow up of new comers and visitors, designing and production of the local church newsletter, a volunteers coordinator, serve in Children's Ministry, be a greeter/usher. Other areas you can serve in are: Keeping the church garden maintained, shoveling snow, catering food at church events, helping in the kitchen, cleaning up the church building, maintaining the church building by fixing broken things etc. These are just few things you can serve in. You can be trained in leading prayer and Bible studies, giving sermons, evangelism and praying for the sick, servant leadership and leading people through freedom sessions. Be available to be used by God.

October 11, 2009

WHAT IF THEY WERE YOUR FLESH AND BLOOD

What if they were your flesh and blood?
What if they were your sons and daughters?
What if they were your flesh and blood?
What if they were your parents?

Would you then care and pray?
Would you sacrifice your time, money and material possessions?
Would you then be an ambassador that speaks on their behalf?
What if they were your flesh and blood?

Lord may you cause us to love and to care.
May we have the compassion of Christ.
Having the courage of Christ to defend the powerless and to care for the needy.
May we care for all humanity around us.

Lord take selfishness away from us.
Causing us to trust in you and to spread our wealth.
To gain is to give.
To give is to be joyful.

O joy of the Lord strengthen us.
Make us stable and free.
We can not be shaken.
Your Spirit sustains us.

October 4, 2009

We have seen the images. We have heard the cries. Our hearts have been moved by the cries of those affected by the storms and earthquakes in South East Asia. What shall we say? What shall we do? It makes one wonder whether the universe needs to sneeze or cough once in awhile. However, the Bible speaks of the last days being days of great hardships including famine, wars and earthquakes. At the same time the Bible instructs us to pray and to help people in times of need.

Mark 4 records the story when Jesus told his disciples that they should go to the other side of the lake. 35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" 41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"

Questions should be asked as to why Jesus wanted to go to the other side of the lake and why the storm came? Scientifically we have an understanding as to what causes storms. One other thing to ponder on is whether there is something that affects storms that is beyond the physical. Does what happens in the spiritual realm affect the natural? If so then the devil knew that the mission of Jesus to go to the other side of the lake was detrimental to his (the devil's) work so he made sure there was a storm. Jesus' mission was to set a man, who was bound by demons, free.

Jesus is more powerful than the devil so that he was able to bring everything under control. We can learn from the experience that Jesus has sent us on mission to share the good news with people. When we are opposed by the devil as we endeavor to do this, our response should be to pray in the name of Jesus and by the power of the Spirit proceed to do what God has called us to do.

I believe that God has great plans for South East Asia and that we as a church should recognize this and pray for the region. Let's pray that God's purpose will be fulfilled and that missionaries will continue to rise from there.

Having said this I should also mention that this applies to your own life. If and when you sense spiritual resistance to your walk with God, you should pray. Prayer keeps us connected to God and also works as a weapon of warfare against the devil's plans against us.

We shouldn't deny the pain of what happens in our lives. We should just refuse to focus only on the valleys. Charles Swindoll

Intercessory prayer might be defined as loving our neighbour on our knees. Charles Brent

September 27, 2009

Psalm 100: 4-5 reads, "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 5:3 reads, "In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation." NIV

READ THE BIBLE

A. Everyday begin by asking God to open your eyes so that you may see His wonders in the Bible. Select a book from the Bible and begin by reading at least one chapter a day for your devotions. Usually one verse or a passage will be meaningful to you. It will speak into your situation or your life.

B. Write down the thoughts and impressions you get from the reading. This will require you to have a book for journaling your experiences and insights.

WORSHIP

A. After you read the Bible, the next assignment is to begin praying by thanking God. Thanking God relates to God's goodness. Think of all the things God has done for you in the past, in the week or the day. As you thank Him you will naturally be led to praising Him.

B. Praise relates to God's greatness. Praising God is saying wonderful things about Him.

C. This leads into worship which is your posture in the presence of God. Raising hands, kneeling down, bowing or falling prostrate on the floor are all part of our worship to God. Worship relates to God's holiness. In your heart recognize God's holiness.

CONFESS YOUR SINS

A. As you come into God's presence to thank, praise, and worship Him you will be led into confession.

B. Because God is a holy God when we come into His presence our own sins and shortcomings are made visible. God's light shines on us. This is no time to quit praying.

C. It is a time to be honest with God and telling Him about our sins and renouncing our sins by choosing not to go back to them.

PETITIONS AND SUPPLICATIONS

A. This is when you now tell God your personal needs, other people's needs, pray for the kingdom of God to be established. Pray for the church and all the other needs you may have.

B. It is helpful to have a list of needs you are praying for regularly and the date when you start praying for them. This will encourage you as you see them being met in the course of your prayers.

September 20, 2009

Thank you for joining us in the 21 days of prayer. Some people may have included occasional fasting to the 21 days of prayer at FIC.

Fasting is abstaining from food for spiritual purposes. When you fast you humble yourself before God by denying yourself pleasures that are good but sometimes take your time from being with God. Mostly people fast from food, however, others have been known to fast from things like; movies, TV, video games, internet, texting messaging and other mobile devices. They do this so that they can discipline themselves to be in God's presence.

Some reasons for fasting are: Before making a crucial decision. When faced with health issues. Spiritual needs are also reasons for fasting like, breaking bondages or bad habits, developing spiritual disciplines and for praying for others, including the advancement of God's kingdom. Whatever the case, fasting helps us focus on God and others, instead of ourselves.

The benefits of fasting are that: 1.You will be energized spiritually. 2. You will have your focus moved from self to God and others. 3. You will also have physical benefits. 4. Fasting reminds us that we need to slow down from the hectic life style and other pressures of life. These are dangerous both to our spiritual lives and to our physical bodies.

During your fasting period you should go about your normal daily duties. Take time to read your Bible and pray during your meal times or the times you are fasting from other devices. Sometimes take time just to rest, sleep, take a walk or just rest in God's presence. You may experience heightened spiritual pressure or attack during fasting but stay firm and retreat into God's presence. The devil does not want you to fast so he will do everything he can to discourage you.

I should give a word of caution that if you have a medical condition that requires you to have regulated amount of food you should seek medical advice before you fast. Break your fast slowly by taking soft foods.

If you are going on a longer fast it is best to begin gradually. You can skip one meal in a day. Next time you fast skip two meals and next time you fast skip all three meals until you are comfortable to fast for a few days continuously. Please make sure you drink water during your fasts and stay away from caffeinated drinks including tea and coffee. With physician assistance you can have great physical benefits from fasting. Matthew 6: 16 "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."

September 13, 2009

Jeremiah 33:2-3 reads, ² "This is what the Lord says, he who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it--the Lord is his name: ³ "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

In all things God works in accordance to His plan. Sometimes we experience things we do not understand. While we are going through difficult situations we may even be confused and ask the "why questions". Jeremiah received a revelation from God that is very instructional to us. First of all, it states that "the Lord has spoken". The Lord is the one that made the earth. Secondly God formed and established the earth. Thirdly God invites us to call to Him in our times of trouble and despondency. God has promised to answer us and to show us things we do not know. As we do this, our faith will rise, because we will see God's purposes in our situations.

I reflect on this with you as we pray for one another as brothers and sisters. We should also pray for the communities in which we live. Sometimes as we are trying to engage the community we come against things that might discourage us. These are problems and issues in the world in which we live. In our finite minds we may try to understand what's going on but it does go beyond our comprehension and it may lead to discouragement and disillusionment.

We need to reach out to the one who formed the earth and established it, the one who formed our bodies and sustains them daily. May we find faith in Him to be enough to carry us through difficult times. May our eyes open that we may see Him and may our ears open that we may hear and understand His promises to us.

With this in mind I invite you to join us as we pray for those that are undergoing medical treatment for physical illnesses. Let us also pray for our brothers and sisters who have lost their jobs and are out looking for employment. We pray for people going through financial difficulties and those who have family problems. Let us bring all our concerns and worries to the Lord and trust Him to answer us. We pray for His purpose to be revealed in our lives and in the world.

Quote If we were logical, the future would be bleak indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope. By Jacques Cousteau

September 6, 2009

Focus Through Prayer Acts 2: 42-47

⁴² "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

This coming Wednesday and Thursday we will kick off the season with prayer at 7 PM. It is always very important to pray. In fact, prayer should be part of every Christian's discipline. We are encouraging you to join us for another 21 days in prayer by taking an hour in 24 hours and committing to praying for your brothers and sisters at FIC. You can also use this time to pray for personal needs and other needs the Lord might show you. The guide below will be helpful to you as you spend time in prayer in the next 21 days.

Begin your prayer time by reading from the Bible. a. Ask God to open your spiritual eyes so that you may have spiritual understanding of what you are reading.

Worship Time
• Spend time thanking God for things and people in your life. Thanksgiving relates to God's goodness. This will lead you into praise. Praise relates to God's greatness.

• Praise God for His greatness. Think of how great God is. This leads to the realization of God's holiness.

• Worship God. This is your posture in God's presence. Because God is holy, when we are in His presence we will become aware of our sins and be convicted of them. Spend time to confess and renounce your sins.

• Choose to repent and surrender to God.

  Prayer Time

• Have a list of things and people you will be praying for on a regular basis.

• Begin by praying for God's kingdom to be advanced in our generation.

• Pray for people to come to believe in Christ.

• Pray for your daily needs and for the needs of others in your life.

• Pray for your family, your church family, your school or work place and your country.

• Pray for your neighbors.

August 23, 2009

Even though it is summer, we have seen a hive of activities at FIC. We are grateful to the Lord and to all of you for serving the community during this period. We have a team of dedicated men and women serving at Night Shift every other Wednesday, we had a successful Alpha program, we have had the opportunity to clear the back lot, the youth just had a successful camp, the ladies had a great program last Sunday and the Children's ministry is concluding the Vacation Bible School today.

There are many more programs that have been going on in the summer. The College and Career has continued to meet and they are having great times as well. However, as we will soon be going into the fall season, we need to step back and refocus. This requires us joining in prayer and meditation. Serving in the kingdom of God requires connecting with God and with those we serve with. If we don't do this we will be fragmented and lack the unity of the Spirit. God calls us into unity with those that we fellowship within the local congregation.

With this in mind we are planning special meetings of prayer and testimonies at 7:00pm. September 9, 10, and 12th. We will show video reports of what has been happening in the summer as well as pray together for our ministry involvement in the fall. May we re-sharpen our tools so that we can be successful in our service to the Lord, to one another and to the community.

May I take this time to also mention that we are in prayer for all those who have faced challenges of ill health, loss of jobs, loss of relationships and loss of loved ones. Let's continue to encourage and pray for one another.

August 16, 2009

I remember a story about a man that really hungered after God. He loved God so much that his heart was set to please Him with all his life.

That man had a dream one day. In his dream, he died and went to heaven. He saw himself standing before the throne of God the father. As soon as he realized he was before the throne of God, he started trying to remember everything good he had done in his life in order to prove that he really did try to please Him.

The man said: I lived my life really trying to please you. I helped the poor. I served in church. And I ...

While this man was speaking and trying to make his case, God the father said: Paul! (that was his real name), come closer. So Paul took some steps forward closer to the throne and then continued his appeal. I did this and that; I did every thing I can, he said. I ... ... ... The person on the throne interrupted again and said: come closer Paul, come closer. Paul, puzzled by the response of God, went closer to the throne but did not give up on continuing his speech. He went on listing all the good things that he really did from his heart to live a good life and please his master. God the father, however, in perfect love and all grace said: PAUL, COME CLOSER, I WANT TO SEE HOW MUCH OF MY SON JESUS I CAN SEE IN YOU!

Paul finally understood what the heart of God is. He wanted him to reflect His Son Jesus. God wants the same from all His children: To come closer and closer, spending more time with Jesus in an intimate friendship gradually becoming more and more like Him.

And we who, with unveiled faces, all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His likeness, with ever increasing glory, which comes from the Lord who is a spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

By Pastor Mones                            

August 2, 2009

Stained Glass Masquerade with Lyrics Is there anyone that fails Is there anyone that falls Am I the only one in church today feelin' so small Cause when I take a look around Everybody seems so strong I know they'll soon discover That I don't belong So I tuck it all away, like everything's okay If I make them all believe it, maybe I'll believe it too So with a painted grin, I play the part again So everyone will see me the way that I see them Are we happy plastic people Under shiny plastic steeples With walls around our weakness And smiles to hide our pain But if the invitation's open To every heart that has been broken Maybe then we close the curtain On our stained glass masquerade Is there anyone who's been there Are there any hands to raise Am I the only one who's traded In the altar for a stage The performance is convincing And we know every line by heart Only when no one is watching Can we really fall apart But would it set me free If I dared to let you see The truth behind the person That you imagine me to be Would your arms be open Or would you walk away Would the love of Jesus Be enough to make you stay By Casting Crowns

July 26, 2009

In Ephesians 2:19 Paul writes,

"Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household."

NIV

When we believe in Christ, repent of our sins, accept Him as our savior and Lord, we become part of God's family.

Every one of us needs a place of worship where we can belong, share our lives and contribute as members of one family. There are many good churches all around us and they are part of our larger church family. However, to be effective we need to join ourselves to a local church family where we can not only receive encouragement and care but also help contribute in the development of others.

Here at FIC we invite you to have this sense of belonging. We love to worship God together, serve one another as well as reach out to hurting people in our communities and beyond.

As a family, we at FIC share something in common. That something, we consider it to be the most important thing in our lives, it is our faith in our beloved lord and savior: Jesus Christ.

Another fact about our church family is that: We are not perfect! Nevertheless, our God never gives up on us. He is COMMITTED to us. He is committed to his children to take them from a place of hurt and weakness to a place of healing and power.

We are His children. He works on us to be like Him. Just as he is committed to us, he wants us to be committed not only to Him but also to one another. The time when we are at our weakest point is the exact time when we need to experience the commitment of one another. We do not commit out of selfish interest but out of our love for one another. The word of God says:

Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than your selves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Philippians 2: 2-4

If we pattern our lives according to His word, we will experience His glory in our lives as well as take it to others in desperate need for Him. Praise you Jesus.

July 19, 2009

I talked to God one day. I told him I really needed a friend. He put His hand on my shoulder and said," I am your friend."

I said, "I need a comforter and someone to encourage me.", He nodded his head and moved closer.

I explained that I was hoping to find a helper for I needed strength. I wanted someone who would protect and defend me. He just smiled at me with His eyes.

I told Him I was looking for some peace and some hope; a sort of refuge from this world that was slowly drowning me in its emptiness and corruption. He came closer and just held me in His arms.

I knew it was a lot to ask but I questioned Him if He could help me find strength and wisdom; He pointed to a book.

I leaned into Him and told Him that I wanted love, not just the way the world defines it but love that brings you joy and gives you an identity. He smiled at me and kissed my forehead.

I quietly confessed that I needed forgiveness for the things I have done in my life. He just showed me His hands and placed one on His heart.

I cried out, "I don't deserve it you know!" And I told Him how very sorry I was. Then I dropped my head and said that I needed a savior. He lifted my head and softly said, "Welcome home.", and I felt a lifetime of burdens fall away from me. I knew right then and there that I didn't want to be anywhere else, for I knew I had found the water of life. I had been sanctified and released from the prison that had kept me captive for so long and I knew not only did I gain a friend, but a father who delights in me. A rock to stand on and a light to lead my path. A friend who is Ever-present who blesses me daily. One who keeps His promises and will never leave nor forsake me. And I knew that one day, I would be forever with my friend in that beautiful place He promised to all those who believe

Robin Suarez

July 12, 2009

We all need stability in life so that when hardships come we will be able to endure. This requires building character that would hold us up in different life situations. Most people spend their time beautifying the outside of their bodies instead of also working on the inside. We need to take care of both the outside and the inside of our bodies. Inside we should build character and discipline.

We need to be grounded in order to survive our contemporary culture. This will help in knowing what to do in any given situation You will know the right thing to do and not be blown by the wind. Being grounded will bring focus, stability and balance regardless of what's going on around you. This requires character that can only come from a source that transcends humanity. God has given us His word to help us develop good character and stability. In fact if people put into practice the teachings of Christianity they would be grounded in life.

This in no way takes away from the advice and helpful opinions from others. It helps us to filter other people's opinions and views of things. We will be able to separate constructive views and opinions from those that are destructive.

I am reminded of the teaching that Jesus gave in Matthew 7:24 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ²⁵ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. ²⁶ But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ²⁷ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." NIV

July 5, 2009

There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His Father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.

The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all.

He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.

The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.

The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, 'You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. But It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound will still be there.

A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one. Remember that friends are very rare jewels, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed .They lend an ear, they share words of praise and they always want to open their hearts to us.'

Author unknown

Quote "A friend is a person who knows all about you, but likes you anyway" (anonymous)

June 28, 2009

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you make my favorite cake for me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I heard you say a prayer, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in God.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw that you cared and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you put your arms around your parents and give them a loving hug, and knew that I should also respect, love and care for my parents.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I saw you sitting by my Dad's bed all night when he was very ill, just holding his hand, and knew that I must care for my family, love and protect them.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking,

I looked at you and wanted to say,
'Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'

June 21, 2009

Young people have been robbed of fatherhood by many vices. The first is that fathers are missing because of death. Secondly some children have lost their father through bitter divorce, thirdly others were born outside marriage and their fathers have not taken responsibility of them. However, the sad one is the fourth fact that some of the young people have fathers or still live with fathers who have no clue on how to be fathers. They themselves have never had role models in this area.

When we bring children into the world it is our responsibility to protect, guide and provide for them. Strong families make strong communities, churches and nations. We can make a difference in people's lives by taking care of the vulnerable children that are within our reach. We need to be role models of the children of the world. Women are no exception either. They can also provide role models as mothers or big sisters. Even if these young people are not biologically related to us, we need to realize our responsibility as part of humanity.

God is a father to the fatherless and the defender of widows. Isaiah 1:17 reads; "learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow."

This shows God's concern of those who are unable to take care of themselves.

If God is this concerned about people, what about us? We have been sent into the world to seek to do good deeds. We are to learn to do what is right.

Can you think of people in your extended family in need of your help? What about the total strangers that may benefit from your example. Not everybody needs your money. They just need to see a normal family. A family that will not take advantage of them but one that will treat them with respect and love.

In case you are reading this and have had a bad family background, remember that God understands you than anybody else. He cares for you and his heart was broken when you were either rejected, neglected or even abused. You can go to him in your brokenness. He heals broken hearts.

June 14, 2009

Summer is almost here. In fact it already feels like summer! We could hardly wait for this weather as we were tired of both the winter and the long spring. This is a time when we take time to relax with family and hopefully work in the garden as well as travel. It is recommended that we take a break from work so that we can be refreshed before we go back. This is a time when we can feel relaxed and not pressured to be on the go all the time.

Everything I have written above would be nice if it were true for everybody. The truth of the matter is that most people have already used up their holidays due to other things that might have come up in the year. This means they will have trouble finding time to take a holiday again. Also when summer comes there is a scramble to travel. There is a hive of activities to hit many places for individuals as well as families. Sometimes families compete with other families so they can just have an opportunity to boast of their travels regardless of how much debt they put themselves into. This later leads to a stressful life style as they need to work hard to pay off the debt.

As we continue living in our society that is driven by consumerism, let us be focused so that we can truly have rest. I say this because many times what is called a holiday is not really a holiday. People find that they still need to take a holiday from a holiday. Our bodies still need rest after our so called holidays where we do not actually rest.

Please take time to truly to reconnect with self and family but above all don't take a break from God. Your personal relationship with God is vital in rejuvenating your physical body. Maintain your personal devotions of reading His word and prayer. Stay connected so that you can be a blessing to others.

James 4

¹³ Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." ¹⁴ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. ¹⁵ Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." ¹⁶ As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. ¹⁷ Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. NIV

Reflection

No matter what a man does, no matter how successful he seems to be in any field, if the Holy Spirit Is not the chief energizer of his activity, it will all fall apart when he dies.(Unknown).

May 24, 2009

May 3, 2009

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water. In the first pot, she placed carrots, in the second pot she placed eggs and the last pot she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and poured it into a bowl.

Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see?"

"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.

She brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. She then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, she asked her to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled, as she tasted its rich aroma.

The daughter then asked. "What does it mean, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity—boiling water—but each reacted differently.

The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.

The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But, after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.

The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity, do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and a hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor.

If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hours are the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate to another level?

How do you handle Adversity? Are you a Carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?

April 26, 2009

The scheduled 21 days of prayer are over but that does not mean we should cease to pray. This period of setting aside one hour every day to pray was meant to encourage us to continue pressing into God. This should continue being part of our life style.

The 21 days of prayer may have revealed areas that you need to attend to in your life. Some of us may have enjoyed the prayer time and have been encouraged to continue in this disciplined prayer life. Then there those of us who may have had a very tough time maintaining the disciplined prayer life. In any case this should not be a discouragement but an eye opener regarding areas we need to take care of. If you fall in the category of those who may have struggled through the 21 days of prayer, don't be discouraged. The important thing is that you continue pressing into God. Even during this time the prayers you have uttered are very important. They have begun changes in your life.

We live in a society where life is very fast paced. There are many things that compete for our time. These things are not bad but being undisciplined in life leads to disorganization which affects how we place necessary things on our list. I hope that this period of prayer has shown us that we need to slow down as well as put things in order.

Remember to begin your devotional time by reading from the Bible. Before you read, ask God to open your spiritual eyes so that you may have spiritual understanding of what you are reading.

Spend time thanking God for things and people in your life. Praise God for his greatness. This leads to the realization of God's holiness. Because God is holy, when we are in his presence we will become aware of our sins and be convicted of them. Spend time to confess and renounce your sins. Choose to repent and surrender to God.

Have a list of things and people you will be praying for on a regular basis. Begin by praying for God's kingdom to be advanced in our generation. Pray for people to come to believe in Christ. Pray for those who preach the Gospel of Christ including you. You should be telling people about Jesus. Pray for your daily needs and for the needs of others in your life. Pray for your family, your church family, your school or work place and your Country. Pray for your neighbours. Pray for the many things that God puts on your heart.

April 19, 2009

We all have values that we consider important in our lives . They determine what we consider good or bad, right or wrong.

As a Church: