By Emily Agee

Thought for today: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith” (Hebrews 11:1-7).

Thought for the week: Just keep your eyes on Jesus.

It’s easy to be tempted, to take the path that’s wrong. Just keep your eyes on Jesus and he will make you strong. So often, friends may fail you and turn and walk away. Just keep your eye on Jesus; he’s there both night and day. And when you’re at a total loss, when everything seems bleak, just keep your eyes on Jesus.

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service that included songs, praise and scripture. Songs sung: “Pass Me Not,” “God Made Me Who I Am” and “Jesus, the Wonderful Child.”

Scripture was read by Perry Nunn, with prayer by Pastor Dukes.

The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes. His theme was “ The Harvest is Ripe.” We are God’s children. He has planted the entire world, and our responsibility is to spread the words. Have you planted the word, and is your harvest ripe? Have you told a dying world about a living God? A soul is important. How do you treat it? Are other souls important to you? There are sheep everywhere you go; round them up and tell them about Jesus. It’s more than throwing out a few scriptures; let them feel they are important. Don’t stop, but follow up with your witness.

All members must work together to reach a community. Witness to those who you think have been written off. Go tell somebody how good God is. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Picking souls is not easy. Be a wiling worker and volunteer to work in saving souls.

Remember these in your prayers this week: James Singleterry, Martha Binion, Lee Ann Worthy, Robertha Lee, Harold Frazier, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Lisa Wright, Dorothy Sims, Dora Archie and Mildred Archie. 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.