“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: and he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:1-16).

Thought for the week: “Peace”

“Peace in my heart — this is my prayer; quiet contentment to have and to share each new tomorrow, blessed and real, each wondrous dawning, a daybreak ideal. Peace in my home — this I would ask; sharing each burden to lighten our task. Laughter abundant, so much that’s worthwhile; faith, hope and courage — a bright, happy smile. Peace in this country — this is my dream; peace we might cherish; joyous, supreme, no more of hatred, no more of crime; peacefulness only, in your heart and mine. Peace in our world — this is my prayer; with one God to guide us and one God to care. All of us neighbors, then surely we’ll see that peace is the answer to eternity.”

Announcements

Morning Star Baptist Church in Clanton will host a Women’s Conference today at 10 a.m. with the theme, “Who Are You? Take Off Your Mask!” There will be several guest speakers from surrounding counties. The Rev. Keith Moore is pastor. For more information contact Connye Bryant at 280-6479 or LaGora Lykes at 217-3048. Everyone is invited.

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service of prayer, scripture, songs and testimonies. Songs sung included, “Pass Me Not,” “I Heard the Voice of Jesus,” “Tis the Season To Be Blessed” and “Bless His Name.” The scripture was read by Willie Nunn with prayer by Pastor Dukes and Carl Singleterry.

The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes. His theme was, “I Won’t Look Back.” Paul in jail did not look back; the devil will pursue you even when you are doing good. He said beware of evil works, beware of hypocrites. Focus and worship God in your spirit; the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.

We all struggle with the flesh. It’s God who draws us to himself. Don’t let trials and tribulations hinder you. Don’t look back on things God has delivered us from. Don’t judge people, just love them. Don’t dwell on bad relationships; that will stop you from loving folks. Forget bad choices you made, let it go and keep moving. The past is spilled milk. Let God fix it for you. Forget bad situations and move forward; don’t be spiritually stuck, don’t have a reprobate mind. Reach forward for the things that lie ahead. Reach forward to your walk with Christ.

Where are you in your current walk with Christ? Reach for a commitment to serve. You can’t serve God if you don’t serve the people. Service is encouraging others. Reach for a new attitude. My attitude must change — don’t be mean and grumpy or self righteous. Everything must be given account for. Confess your sins on this side and press toward the prize, which is Jesus.

The service concluded with benediction and remarks given by Pastor Dukes.

Our sympathy goes out to the family of Mr. Mack Arthur Burden Jr. in their time of bereavement. Services will be held today at 1 p.m. at West End Church of Christ in Clanton. Agee Brother’s Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers: Sam and Vivian Hicks, Lee Anna Worthey, Linda Clay, Margie Hardnett, Ola Mae Reed, J. D. Scott,

Joseph McCall, William White, Maude Moore, Luther Lee and Cammie Austin Stoudemire. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.