Be Encouraged

Recently, we have noticed that our church members seem to be down. Attendance has been off. People look down and gloomy.
There are various factors which undoubtedly have produced this effect. A new sales tax began on November 15, just in time for the holidays. Already there is talk of increasing the tax from 7% to 10%, and the existing income tax has yet to be repealed or revised. Water and electric bills keep rising at an alarming rate; gas prices are uncertain.
The Lord led me to preach some encouraging messages focusing on spiritual reality rather than on the circumstances that surround. Last Sunday (Dec. 3), I preached on the theme, "God Loves You." The incredible, unfathomable, unmerited, and inexplicable nature of this love cannot help but lift the soul. At the close of the service, about 6 people raised their hands for prayer that they would rise above the difficulties of life to dwell on the love of God.
Today, I preached on Romans 8:1, "No Condemnation." This tremendous truth is due to our being in Christ Jesus. This means we have been forgiven, justified, and transformed by knowing Christ. Our freedom from condemnation is also due to our being liberated from the dominion of sin and death by Christ. It was immensely gratifiying to see people smile and respond positively to the Word. In fact, about 15 people responded in the invitation. Pray with me for the messages in the Christmas season and for the beginning of 2007.