Dear Church Family

As we gather each week to worship and reflect upon our faith, I wanted to take a moment to dive into a topic that lies at the very core of our existence as Christians – the profound and irreplaceable need for God's help in our lives."DO YOU ASK GOD FOR HELP?"

In a world characterized by constant change, uncertainty, and challenges, we often find ourselves grappling with circumstances that test our resolve and shake our faith. It is during these times that we are reminded of our human limitations and our need for a higher power to guide us through the storms of life. Scripture consistently teaches us that God is not just an optional companion on our journey but an essential pillar upon which our lives are built.

Divine Guidance: The path we tread is riddled with choices, some minor and some life-altering. It is easy to become overwhelmed and uncertain, but with God's help, we gain access to divine wisdom. The Psalms remind us, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Psalm 119:105). God's guidance illuminates our way, ensuring that we make choices aligned with His will.

Strength in Weakness: As humans, we encounter moments of weakness, both physical and emotional. Yet, through God's help, our weaknesses can be transformed into sources of strength. The Apostle Paul learned this firsthand, proclaiming, "For when I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Corinthians 12:10). God's strength empowers us to endure hardships and emerge victorious.

Comfort and Healing: In times of pain, grief, and sickness, we find solace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. The Psalms resonate with assurance: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). God's presence provides comfort that surpasses all understanding and paves the way for healing.

Forgiveness and Redemption: We all stumble and fall, burdened by mistakes and regrets. But God's help extends beyond our shortcomings. Through His grace, we are offered forgiveness and the chance to start anew. The Apostle John assures us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

In our journey of faith, it is vital to remember that seeking God's help is not a sign of weakness, but an acknowledgment of our reliance on Him as our Creator and Sustainer. As a community of believers, let us embrace our need for God's guidance, strength, comfort, and forgiveness, both in times of joy and in moments of adversity.

May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of God's help, inspiring others to seek His unwavering support as well. Let us come together in prayer and fellowship, reinforcing our commitment to a life deeply rooted in faith and anchored by the grace of our Lord.

With heartfelt blessings and prayers for each one of you,

In Christ's love,

Bill Doane

Last week Message is  online at http://www.aspengrovechurch.com

 Dear Church Family

Grace and peace be unto you all in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

As we continue our journey of faith together, I would like to bring forth a topic that has been on my heart – the act of seeking God's help in times of need.

In our shared walk with God, we are often faced with challenges, uncertainties, and moments when we feel overwhelmed by the weight of life's burdens. In these moments, it is only natural for us to turn to our Creator, the One who holds all power and wisdom, for guidance and support. The question that I would like us all to reflect upon is: "Do we actively seek God's help?"

The Scriptures teach us time and again about the importance of seeking God's guidance and assistance. Psalm 121:1-2  I lift up my eyes to the mountain where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

It's easy to get caught up in our own efforts, relying solely on our human understanding and strength. However, as a community of believers, we are called to a higher standard – a standard that recognizes the importance of humbling ourselves before God and acknowledging our dependence on Him. In doing so, we not only experience His grace and mercy, but we also strengthen our relationship with Him and witness His mighty hand at work in our lives.

Let us remember that seeking God's help is not a sign of weakness, but rather an expression of faith. It is an act that affirms our trust in His divine providence and His promise to never leave us nor forsake us. As we gather in worship and fellowship, let us encourage one another to be diligent in our prayers and petitions, inviting God into every aspect of our lives.

May our hearts be open, and our spirits be willing as we embark on this journey of introspection and growth. May our faith be strengthened, and may our actions reflect the truth that we serve a God who delights in answering the cries of His children.

In Christ's love,

Bill Doane

Last week Message is  online at http://www.aspengrovechurch.com

 

Dear Church Family,

Grace and peace be unto you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I trust this letter finds you well and blessed. I am writing with a heart filled with hope and a desire for healing, unity, and renewed fellowship within our church.

In recent times, I have observed with a heavy heart the presence of discord and strained relationships among the body of believers. As followers of Christ, we are called to love one another, to be peacemakers, and to forgive as we have been forgiven. It is crucial for us to set aside our differences, embrace the spirit of humility, and work towards restoring the harmony that once defined our fellowship.

The Bible teaches us in: Colossians 3:13 "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." These words remind us of the divine example of forgiveness we have received through Christ's sacrifice, and they challenge us to extend that same forgiveness to our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Let us set aside ourgrievances, listen to one another's perspectives, and seek understanding. This journey toward reconciliation may require humility, vulnerability, and a willingness to admit our shortcomings, but it is a path that leads to the restoration of relationships and the strengthening of our church family.

May the Lord bless ourefforts and guide us on this journey of healing and restoration.

In Christ's love,

Bill Doane

http://www.aspengrovechurchnc.com/

 Dear Church Family,

I write to you today to reflect upon the concept of "Heavenly Crowns."

In the book of Revelation, chapter 4, verse 10, we read, "The twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 'Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.'"

This passage reminds us that the crowns we may receive in heaven are not a source of personal pride or self-glorification, but rather an opportunity to magnify the glory of Go. These crowns are a symbol of the rewards that await those who have faithfully served and persevered in their journey of faith.

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 9:25), compares our heavenly crowns to the crowns that athletes receive. He writes, "Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we are imperishable."                           These heavenly crowns represent different aspects of our Christian walk and service. 

• The Crown of Righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8): Awarded to those who have eagerly awaited the appearance of our Lord, demonstrating a life characterized by faith and godly living.

• The Crown of Life (James 1:12): Promised to those who endure trials and remain steadfast in their love for God, even in the face of adversity.

• The Crown of Glory (1 Peter 5:4): Reserved for those who shepherd God's flock with humility and genuine care, setting an example for others to follow.

• The Crown of Rejoicing (1 Thessalonians 2:19): Given to those who have been instrumental in leading others to Christ and nurturing their faith.

• The Incorruptible Crown (1 Corinthians 9:25): Awarded to those who practice self-discipline and strive for spiritual growth and maturity.

Let us remember that these crowns are not just individual rewards but a collective offering of worship to our Heavenly Father. May our hearts be stirred to deepen our devotion, service, and love for our Savior as we anticipate the day when we can cast our crowns before His throne in worship and adoration.

In Christ's love,   

Bill Doane

www.AspengroveChurch.com

 

Dear Church Family,

It fills my heart with joy to witness how the love of God is touching so many lives within our congregation and the community we serve.

Over the past year, it is evident that our church has been flourishing in various new aspects.

I am thrilled to see how our church's efforts have grown and we all are working together for His Kingdom. Our commitment to serving those in need has been both effective and compassionate. The impact we have made in the lives of the less fortunate is a testament to the power of God's love working through us. It is heartwarming to see our congregation wholeheartedly engage in these activities, spreading hope and light to the darkest corners of our community.

I believe it is essential for us as a church family to embrace growth. Growth presents both opportunities and challenges, and I am confident that by navigating this path together, we will thrive for His Glory.

Let's each of us take steps to nurture the spiritual growth of our members and visitors.

As we welcome new faces into our congregation, we must ensure that they feel loved, accepted, and valued. Embracing diversity and understanding each other's unique backgrounds and experiences will create a stronger and more compassionate church community.

Your dedication, kindness, and willingness to serve have been instrumental in our journey. Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, to glorify God and share His love with the world.

May God's love continue to guide and inspire us as we move forward on this incredible journey of growth.

In Christ's love,

Bill Doane

http://www.aspengrovechurchnc.com/

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