By Emily Agee

“For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And be that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:24–32.

Thought for the week: Keep me strong

“Lord, help me to accept the changes that you bring, and if my heart should break, help me endure the sting. Let me learn and grow from each and every test; help me keep my faith and leave to you the rest. Help me to sing praises whatever comes my way, knowing “this shall pass,” and there’ll be a brighter day. Help me to hold on to what you have done before, when you pierced the darkness and opened up the door. Letting in the sunshine of your blessed love. Filling me with peace that comes only from above. You’ve not failed me yet, Lord; I know you never will. And when my faith is weak, I know you love me still. So hold my hand – keep me strong whatever comes my way, when my tears begin to fall, let me stop to pray. And may your precious name be glorified through me. May I reflect your love so others are drawn to thee.”

Announcements

Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison will celebrate its 112th church anniversary on Sunday, Dec. 9. The Rev. Irvin William, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Jemison, will be the guest speaker. Everyone is invited.

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service by the senior choir with Jennifer Peoples directing. Songs sung: “He Is Sweet I Know,” “Jesus Is My Land Lord” and “He Never Put More On Me Than I Can Bear.”

The scripture was read by Earl Lowery with prayer by Pastor Dukes and Steven Nunn. The morning mesage was given by Pastor Dukes. His theme: “Life is a blessing; slow down and enjoy it.” Text: Psalm 23. Times are fast-paced. We have a microwave generation—quick, fast and in a hurry. What are we hurrying to? People scheme and scam trying to live better. The quicker the better. We overlook the qualities of life that make it better. Don’t mess up life by going too fast. Don’t base your life on the stuff you have. Make wise choices. The Holy Spirit will guide you.  Remember choices always bring consequences. Don’t get caught up in the stress; slow down and enjoy life. You earn peace and respect by the way you treat others. Every day is precious. Pray and be thankful for it. David wrote the 23rd Psalms speaking of his life and what he was going through and how he came out of it. Get the most out of life that you can. Have a personal relationship with your leader. David said the Lord is my shepherd; a personal pronoun, not mom, pop or anyone else but my shepherd. He will never leave me as long as I live. Fellowship by Pastor Dukes, deacons and congregation.

On our sick list this week, we ask you to remember in your prayers: Doris Ware Henderson, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Lee Anna Worthey, Roberta Lee, Rena Dickerson, Evelyn Austin and Willie McGee. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in his care is our prayer.

—Emily Agee is a religion columnist for The Clanton Advertiser. Her column appears each Thursday.