Bethany Baptist Church

Before the sermon, Bro. Steve sang, “Do You Really Want Revival? His sermon concerned revival, using scripture from Habakkuk. The prophet Habakkuk was burdened over the soon coming chastisement God would bring upon Israel because of their rejection of him. In chapter 3, he prays to God: “O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years; in wrath remember mercy.” Revival will never come without prayer. We must feel the need. We must be hearing and heeding God’s word. This world is becoming more evil all the time, and the space between the world and the church seems to be narrowing. Church members seem to be compromising more and more with the world. As Habakkuk says, we need God’s mercy, and the way we get mercy is by confessing our sins. God wants us refreshed and renewed in our faith. We need revival!

Bro. Steve’s evening message was a study of the diversity of gifts and some misunderstandings concerning spiritual gifts. He named and discussed the ministering gifts and the sign gifts the Apostle Paul preached about in 1 Corinthians 12.

Prayer list: Betty Biggs, James Bixler, Ada Church, Arnold DeLoach, Doris and Verdie Glenn, Hubert Griffin, Mildred Griffin, Laverne and Dick Hayes, Journey Mission in Calera, Vicki Mims, Billie Neeley, and Lillianna Thompson.

See you Sunday!

Mars Hill Baptist Church

It was a wonderful day to be in the house of our Lord! The rain has gone away for a few days and the gloom has disappeared. There were many smiles on the faces of our members and visitors today; proof that Jesus was in the house. There is a way to have sunshine in your life every day, 365 days a year: Open up your heart and let Jesus, the eternal sunshine, come in, and no matter what the weather outside is like, there will be sunshine in your soul. You can be joyful, no matter the circumstances surrounding you.

Bro. William Short’s message today was taken from Hebrews 13:8-16. The way we worship may have changed in many ways, but Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is the solid rock upon which we stand, never fearing that he will let us down. He was Lord in 1942, and he is Lord in 2013. We are established by his grace, not any good or works that we have or may do. Don’t listen to strange doctrines, but be established in his word, rooted and grounded in the Bible, and able to discern when others tell you an untruth about God, his son, or his word.

In Bible days, it was necessary for people to slaughter animals and bring them to the High Priest to atone for their sins, but Jesus took that away when he died on the cross for your sins and mine. Brothers and sisters, if your name is written in the Lambs Book of Life, you are looking for a greater reward that anything you could hope to achieve on this earth. You are looking for a heavenly home, to live with Jesus Christ forever more, to worship him in spirit and truth, day after day. What a wonderful time that will be. I want to hear him call my name, and say, “Welcome in, my child!” Do you know your name is written in this precious book? Are you looking for that day to come? We have often heard it said that when your number is up, you are gone. I don’t know what my number is, but I know where my name is written.

In verse 15, we are told to continually offer up the sacrifice of praise to God, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name. Our Christian journey is not over when we ask Jesus into our hearts to save us; it is just beginning. He didn’t save us to sit back on our laurels and watch the world go by. He saved us, and wants us to tell others about the joy in our hearts. Do others see your joy? Is your light hidden under a table? Jesus wants us to get out there and let our light shine for the world to see, to know him, and praise his name. That’s what verse 16 is all about. Do not forget to do good and to share, for God is well pleased with such a sacrifice. It’s a good thing to share Jesus with those around us. God is pleased when we tell others about his son. It should be no sacrifice to share what we love.

We have so many conveniences in this world today, yet we don’t use them to share the gospel of Christ with the world. We have cars with air conditioning and heat, and our homes are comfortable; we have televisions in every room, along with telephones, social media, videos, smart phones, computers and the list goes on, but are we using what we have to reach others, or simply for our own pleasure? We can use everything we have for Jesus. Think about what you have this week and find a way to use it for good. We are all born in sin, but thank God, we don’t have to live in it!

Read your Bible this week, study it, pray, and praise his name. When we are where we should be with God, everything changes for the better in our lives. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Please continue to pray for our church, the sick, the lost, the hurting, our troops, our country, our leaders and our schools. God is great, all the time. Amen.

Rocky Mount United Methodist Church

“Go to church or the devil will get you!” That was the title of Sunday’s sermon, and, as you might expect, the sermon stressed the importance of being in church on Sundays. Bro. Phil referred to the popular sign on Interstate 65 that is displayed on the property of Mr. W.S. Newell that reflects that same message. Upon being interviewed about the sign, Mr. Newell reported that his mother had stressed to him that he should be in church on Sunday so the devil wouldn’t get him, and he wished to share that message. He went on to state to the interviewer how he felt about the scripture John 3:16. The radio interview for the sign gave him the opening for sharing scripture.

Our scripture for the morning, Luke 4:14-21, shared the usual custom for Jesus on the Sabbath: “As usual, he entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up to read.” If it was a good enough custom for Jesus, surely it is good enough for us. It has been proven that attending church has many benefits, such as living longer and healthier lives, strength in numbers and much more. The Bible tells us in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or more are gathered together in my name, I am there among them.” We hope you will make it your usual custom to be in church on Sunday. Go to church so the Lord will get you!

Mountain Springs News

Service started on Sunday with Bro. Kenneth Moates leading the church in the following hymns: “Lift Me Up Above the Shadows,” “Living By Faith,” “I’d Rather Be An Old-Time Christian” and “Heaven’s Jubilee.”

We had a prayer service in which many people were anointed and touched by the Holy Spirit. Bro. Roger Cleckler sang “Just Any Day Now” and “A Far Better Place.” He gave a devotion from Psalms 19:7-11: There is a great reward for those who keep the commandments of God.

We didn’t have Sunday school because of the wonderful service we had this morning. Kellie Bice sang “He’ll Make A Way.”

Bro. Tim Scott and his wife were with us this Sunday. Bro. Tim preached from Acts 6:3-5: The Holy Spirit directs us in the selection of spiritual leaders. It empowers us for service to God and it will guide us in the truth. Who are you led by, the world or the Holy Spirit?

Sunday night was our end-of-the-month singing. Many people sang and blessed the church with wonderful songs. We are so proud of the talent with which God has blessed our church.

Don’t forget our services are Sundays at 9:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. We hope to see you there!

Calvary Independent Baptist Church

We want to thank everyone who attended services this weekend.

Sunday morning’s service included a message from John 3:15 about an awesome savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. What could be greater than seeing how God has made it possible that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. Romans 11:32 says, “We are living in a time today where God has concluded all in unbelief so that now, he might have mercy upon all.” We hope that you are the “whosoever” who believes in Jesus Christ, and you him as Lord of your life.

Sunday night’s service included a song service, a devotional message from 2 Chronicles 16:9, then a fellowship meal downstairs celebrating this month’s birthdays and anniversaries. If you are not attending church services somewhere else on Sundays or Wednesdays, we would love to see you at Calvary Independent Baptist Church. Sunday school at 9 a.m., Children’s Church and adult worship service at 10 a.m., Sunday evening service at 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday service at 6:30 p.m. We are located south of Clanton, just past Dollar General, off U.S. 31 on Fulmer Drive. For more information, call Pastor Oscar Mims at 205-755-9399.

Bethsalem Baptist Church

Bro. Cleve Mallory began the service by welcoming everyone and giving ministry opportunities. He recognized Men’s Day and preached from Genesis 2:15-3:8 on leading by being last. He also sang “I Lift My Hand.” God is faithful to everyone. Forever.

Call To Worship music: “Open the Eyes of My Heart”

The message, brought by Bro. Matt Hall, was from Ezekiel 36:26-32 and titled “A New Heart.” The Celebration Choir sang “One Cross, Three Nails.”

In the evening service, the youth gave testimony and reports about their trip, and we had one saved: Kenneth Roper, who joined our church on Sunday night.

Wednesday family supper: 5:30 p.m., adult prayer meeting: 6:30 p.m., children’s choir and The Outlet for students.

Pray for Liliana Thompson, Hunter Moore, the Crawford family, Elridge Townsend, Ellen Seals, Stacy Cooper, Brent Wright, Harold Pierce, Carolyn Duke, Vickie Mims, Arnold Deloach, J.T. Glasscock, Frankie Smith, Brian Neal, Chad Nix, Gerald Stamps, Charles and Gladys Bryant, our church committee in their search for a new pastor, our homebound, those in nursing homes, all who are facing cancer and all who have lost loved ones.

Happy Birthday this week to Krystal Willis, Katie Ousley, Shae Williams, Austin Chandler, Briley Bice, Syd Griner, Steve Gray, Jenae Pierce and Eisa Enriquez.

Come and worship with us on Sunday. May God bless you.

Jackson Chapel Church

Bro. Gary Fant got the morning worship service started off with “Tell It To Jesus Alone” and “Where Could I Go.” Bro. Dennis Smith blessed us with “There’s a Record Book.” Bro. Dennis’ text came from Numbers 22:28-33: We need to be very careful as Christians because we can be serving God, but going about it the wrong way. If we are planning on going to heaven there are no shortcuts, so we must go by the word of God. Satan will try everything he can to distract us from the word of God, so we need to read our Bibles and pray every day. When Satan comes against us to try and destroy us, we need to recognize him, and once he has been recognized, we will be able to tell him to flee.

The service ended with several coming to pray.

Wow, what an evening we had with The Kempters! If you were not able to attend the singing, you missed a blessing because this family truly blessed our hearts.

Please remember these as you pray this week: Danny Smith, Vicki Johnston, Marie Johnson, Matthew Lucas, Amy Solis, Priscilla Robinson, Jean Mayfield, our lost loved ones and our service men and women.

We are located at 4020 Yellow Leaf Road in Clanton. Our service times are Sunday school at 10 a.m., Sunday morning worship at 11 a.m., Sunday evening worship at 6 p.m. and Wednesday Bible study at 7 p.m.

Mount Carmel No. 1

Our morning worship began with lots of great songs and good attendance. Bro, Hershel Scott opened our day of worship by welcoming everyone and giving ministry opportunities. We are thankful for everyone who joined us as we celebrated the Lord Jesus in praise and worship.

The Children’s Church “Sermon in a Sack” was “The Fisherman.” Bro. Derrell had the children lead their service by using their arts and crafts to tell about the fisherman, Peter, in Matthew 4:18.

For the morning message, Bro. Derrell preached from John 2:1-5. His sermon was titled “Five Keys to Your Miracles.” He began his sermon with a prayer of thanksgiving.

Jesus’ first miracle was performed at a wedding in Cana of Galilee, where he changed water into wine. His miracles and signs were designed to convince the people that Jesus is the Messiah.

Make your needs known to the Lord. He knows our need before we ask him, and he wants us to trust him. What resources have God provided to you today to reach a miracle? Jesus said to them, “Fill the water pots to the brim.”

Our Sunday evening service was combined with New Salem Baptist Church for a fellowship of singing. Bro. Derrell brought a short devotion for the opening of our service, followed by congregational singing. All reported a very enjoyable service.

On Feb. 3, our church will have a pounding for Linda and Wayne Cummings for the purpose of replenishing their kitchen after their house fire. We invite you to join us for a potluck lunch following the morning service. After lunch, we will go to their home for a dedication service.

Choir practice will be on Sunday, Feb. 3, at 4 p.m. All choir members and others are invited to attend.

On Feb. 9 at 5 p.m., the youth will host a Valentine’s banquet. Everyone is invited.

Baby bottles filled with money for the Care Net program are due on Jan. 30. God bless you for having a part in this program.

A new church directory is in the making. Watch for the photography dates. We need everyone’s cooperation in this project.

Please remember everyone on our prayer list in your daily prayers. Thank you for the prayers for Winston Liveoak and Cecil Franklin. God still hears our prayers.

Come and join us for worship on Sunday.

Christ Independent Methodist Church

On this perfect Sabbath day, it was a joy to see our church service well attended, though we missed those who were absent. There is a virus going around that appears to strike indiscriminately. That may be partly due to the bright sunshine that fooled us. Looking out at the sunshine, it appeared to be a warm, pleasant day, then the chilly wind proved otherwise. Even the spring-blooming flowers awoke from their winter sleep to greet the sunshine and bring joy to their gardeners.

Dr. Mac Stinson’s sermon title was “The Joy of the Lord,” based on scripture from Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6 and 8-10. His sermon began with this provocative paragraph: “There is an ancient Egyptian myth that says that after death, every individual is confronted with two questions that have to be answered honestly. First, did you find joy? The second, did you bring joy?” What say you?

Billy Graham tells us that joy is one of the marks of a true believer. Does that description fit you and the fellow Christians with whom you associate? There are exceptions to all rules, but I do believe that joy gives Christians the ability to feel God’s presence and demonstrates that feeling to others. Nehemiah tells us, “The joy of the Lord is our strength.”

Joy does not have to be jumping up and down display of emotion like we witness at ball games. Joy reinforces what we feel in our hearts.

Albert Einstein, 1921 Nobel Peace Prize winner, once lost his ticket while riding on a train. The conductor said, “You don’t need a ticket, sir; I know who you are.” The great scientist replied, “I know who I am, too, but I don’t know where I’m going.” Does that describe us as Christians, or do we find joy in knowing where we are going? If not, God left a plan for us. His plan is free, and we can accept or reject it. Knowing when we are headed in the right direction gives us joy and peace.

Our Valentine dinner will be on Feb. 10. Experience the joy of this occasion and fellowship at 5 p.m. Special guests will be Mike and Sharon Garret, missionaries to Honduras.

Make plans to attend the Ladies A.T.M. Refresher in March.

Remember to pray for our church community, the military and their families, our country and each other. Remember Dr. Mac. Stinson, Mary Ann Carden, Opal Miller, Judy Williams and all others who are dealing with the virus that is going around.

Have a blessed week.

Friendship Baptist Church

Sunday’s choir special was “I’d Rather Have Jesus” with solo parts by Bro. Raymond Moore and Bro. Dusty Dutton. In Bro. Ken Daniel’s message from Luke 19:45-48 titled “Cleaning House,” he said that God’s house is a place of refuge and prayer. God is worthy of our praise. Clean out the clutter and the things that don’t matter, and get back to loving and honoring our Lord.

In the evening service, we continued our Bible study, “The Greatest Week in History: Luke’s Account of the Passion Week.”

Upcoming events:

Feb. 9: 1950’s themed Valentine’s banquet. Come dressed for the occasion. The youth will serve and donations will be accepted for their mission trip to Give Kids the World.

Feb. 10: Bridal tea for Angie Taylor and Alex Wyatt from 2-4 p.m.

Feb. 15-16: Harvest Fire Glory Meetings at 7 p.m. Come and experience God’s miraculous power. James and Victoria Weneth from Mobile will be ministering.

Feb. 16: Angie Taylor and Alex Wyatt’s wedding at the Jemison Wedding Chapel at 4 p.m.

Feb 19-20: Church directory pictures. See Mary Martin to make an appointment.

Feb. 27: Mission trip to Guatemala

March 2: Renew one-day event for women of all ages. Heritage, Montgomery 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m. $35 per person. Lunch included. Deadline to register is Feb. 10. See Anita Glover or visit www.alabamawmu.org.

Happy birthday to Brenda Conradi, Krysta Wilderson and Pam Jones.

Prayer requests: Sara Sabo, the Perry Family, Martha Hilyer, Ron Nicholas, Gene Paige, Rachael Lowrey, Steve Wilson, the Linnie Wyatt family, Gabby Moore, Christopher Bates, Wiliam Varnadora, Janice Wyatt and Matthew Jones.

Jesus Christ is the same today and forever.

The Hope Center, 876 Dakota Road, Thorsby (in front of the water tower). Sunday services are at 10 a.m. each week. For more information, call 205-910-7610.