“A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food. They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them. Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the Lord understand all things. Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich. Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father. He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor. He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination. Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession. The rich man is wise in his own conceit: but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out. When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden. He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy” (Proverbs 28:3-13).

Thought for the week: “When Comfort Is Needed”

“May God’s Spirit flows through me as I journey down life’s road to help those in trouble by lightening their load. When comfort is needed, may I always be there to provide strength and love to those in bitter despair. When life’s trails are many and some lose their way, let me help God to find them and guide them each day. At the end of the evening when I fall to my knees, let me pray and thank God for giving others some ease.”

The Rev. and Mrs. Irwin Williams will celebrate his sixth anniversary as pastor of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Jemison on Sunday, Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. The Rev. Davis of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Jones will be the guest speaker. All churches are invited.

Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Maplesville will celebrate its annual Youth Day Celebration on Sunday, Aug. 3 at 2 p.m. All youth and their churches are invited to attend.

Worship services at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with prayer, scripture and songs by the praise team. Songs by the senior choir, “God Is Real” and “Hold On Change Is Coming.” Prayer was led by Pastor Dukes and Carl Singleterry. The morning message was delivered by Pastor Dukes with the theme “If It Doesn’t Start Right, It Won’t End Right.”

Make sure God gives you the go-ahead before you start something. Consult him before making plans. Move forward but know to include God. Is it his will for your plans; prayer makes the difference in your choices. Let him guide you. Don’t develop an attitude of “what we will do?” It’s about what God wants you to do. Being tired is no reason to step out on your own. God said, “Come unto me and I will give you rest.” Don’t have a selfish attitude. Consult and pray to God about everything; leave God in your plans. Don’t allow things to replace God. God is looking to see if you have love and dedication; God blesses those that are real. Be real, don’t be a saint on Sunday and a hellion at home. Stay together all with one language and understanding. Only confusion can stop unity. Confusion won’t let you do anything. Frustration comes out of confusion. Come together for right and God will let you continue working together. Communicate with each other without confusion. Be of one mind and on one accord.

The altar call and benediction were led by Pastor Dukes.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers: Luther Lee, Chris Laister, Johnsie Walker, Nora Bell Barbour, C.D. Varner, Joseph McCall, Sam and Vivian Hicks, and Margie Hardnett. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.

Note: Emily Agee is a religious columnist for The Clanton Advertiser. Her column appears each Saturday.