By Emily Agee

“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” (Hebrews 11:1–6).

Thought for the week: “Quiet Times”

“Everybody needs a break from the pressures of the day; we need to take some quiet time to meditate and pray. reflecting on our blessings will restore vitality, communicating with our Lord releases all anxiety. Sit back — relax — and close your eyes, then let God’s blessings flow. Feel His loving arms enfold you as you bask within His glow. Open up your heart and mind in the quiet time you spend, relinquishing your anguish and the problems that offend. God restores you with His love — He renews your energy, His everlasting promises promote tranquility. Acknowledge Him and praise His name; trust that He will guide you. Reach out with utmost reverence, for God is there beside you.”

Announcements

Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Clanton will celebrate its annual Church’s Anniversary on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 2 p.m. The Rev. Keith Moore is pastor. All churches and their pastors are invited.
Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service of songs, prayer and scripture led by members of the senior choir. The scripture was read by Earl Lowery (Psalm 15). Prayer by Pastor Dukes and Earl Lowery. Songs sung: “The Lord On My Side” and “Bless The Lord In Me.”

The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes. His theme was “Do You Get Tired of People and Just Don’t Care?” There was a preacher who loved the Lord but didn’t like people (Jonah 3:1-4, 10). Jonah, a preacher, did not love all people, but he was a personal messenger of God. Jonah went to another city when God told him to go elsewhere because he did not like the people — God is a God to everybody, no matter your history or nationality. God can get your attention any way he wants. The fish can be a debt collector, your health, whatever gets your attention. We all have done wrong focusing on sweeping a dirt floor; that is impossible.

If God has told you to preach, teach, witness, sweep, mop or whatever, do what God has told you to do. Let nothing separate you from God.

Our sympathy goes out to the family of Mr. Melvin Bell in their time of bereavement. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 27 at 11:30 a.m. at New Convert Baptist Church in Maplesville. Agee Brothers Funeral Home directing.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers: Eliza Stewart, Jerry Wilson, Harold Frazier, Lee Anna Worthey, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Flora B. Frazier, Robert Spence , Evelyn Austin and Martha Binion. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.

—Emily Agee is a religion columnist for The Clanton Advertiser.