Samaria Baptist Church

The rain continues, and we thank God for all our blessings.

Bro. Bert Tippett blessed us on Sunday with a message. Bro. Bert spoke in the absence of Bro. Charles, who is recovering from the surgery he had two weeks ago. We lift up our wonderful pastor as he heals and we pray for him to be completely well very soon.

Jeannie Mims blessed our hearts with “Consider the Lillies.”

Jeannie reminded us that VBS is this week, and our Family Night will be held on Friday, July 12.

Brother Tippett brought his message from Luke 23: 32-43. His message was titled “Three Voices.” These voices are known as fear, faith and grace. We hear from all these voices in the course of our lives, and we need to learn to depend on the voices that promote our growth in Jesus Christ.

The thief on the cross questioned Jesus’ ability to save himself and the others cried out in fear. Rather than humbly asking Jesus to save him, the theif taunted Jesus for not having already done so. In faith, the other thief trusted Jesus and repented of his sins, admitting that he deserved this kind of fate, but that Jesus had done no wrong. “Today, thou shalt be with me in paradise,” Jesus said to the repentant thief on the cross. This act of grace set the tone for the grace that we are able to cling to today and for all time. Jesus saves by grace, through the faith that we exercise.

We need to heed the call of Christ as the still small voice speaks to us; we need to repent and rededicate our lives to an awesome God. If we listen to fear, it will hold us back, but if we listen to faith, we can step out, allowing Christ to do the rest for us. If we hold onto the grace that comes from God alone, he will see us through, and we can never have to fear again.

Trust Jesus, and he will take care of your hearts and lives.

We request special prayer for Ms. Pauline Harris and her family in the death of her brother, Curtis Meank. Our loss is heaven’s gain.

God bless you and keep you all. Visit us at Samaria. Jesus is here, and he is worth the trip.

Bethsalem Baptist Church

Bro. Cleve Mallory opened our day of worship by welcoming everyone, giving ministry opportunities and recognizing those having birthdays. The Celebration Choir sang “Come to Jesus.”

We have called Bro. Bobby Dubois as our interim pastor. He preached both the morning and evening service.

Wednesday service at 6:30, prayer meeting for adults, Team Kids for children and Student’s Outlet.

Happy Birthday to Mark LeBlanc, Shirley Smith, Vickie Moseley, Dylan Courtney, Marshall Eells, Angie Carroll, Kennly Hunter, Haiden Boyles, Austin Courtney, Conner Willis, Joe Cox and Brayden Cooper.

Pray for these: Our pastor search committee, Hunter Moore, Charles Bryant, Nina Goode, Sid Griner, the Hunt family’s adoption, Tyler Barnes, George and Diane Williams, Bro. Charles Brooks, Elridge Townsend, J.R. Cullum and Becky Jackson. Pray for our country.

Youth VBS on Thursday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Dustin and Wendy’s home. Our youth will share their experiences from FUGE in Mobile.

Come and worship with us on Sundays.