As a nation, we must surely pray for the police who protect us from the evil of the times. This morning we took time to honor those who died in the line of duty this month. It is a sad time when hatred causes human beings to kill one another without a cause.
The title of pastor's sermon this morning contains a word often used. The word is "if," which means "introducing a conditional clause." This word is used in an excuse to blame someone else for what we do. For instance, some say, "I would do the right thing if it wasn't for what others would think." What IF one of the fallen policemen was a member of your family? You would be much more apt to take notice of the way these men and women are being treated. We want to let our local law enforcement officers know that the Cove Mission of Hope will continue to keep them in our prayers, and we do appreciate your dedication to the people of McDonald County. God Bless and Keep You!
In the Word, we are made aware that Solomon was a man of great wisdom and his father, David, was a man after God's own heart. These qualities are very impressive and led them both into positions of leadership for the Lord. When they were called to service for God, they could have said, "IF you will make my way easy and without hardships, I will follow you." This was not the answer given. With a humble heart, both came to the Master and offered their life to the calling that was given to them.
In Hebrews 4:9, we read of a promise of rest to the people of God. He is there to give us what we need, IF we obey his commandments and walk in the light of the Word. In verse 16 of the same chapter, we are told how to gain the mercy of the Lord. It says, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." In the times we live in, our country is being ruled by godless people who refuse to turn from their wicked ways. IF we continue in this way and choose to live as the world dictates, we will miss the blessings of God.
The material possessions that we hold so tight are but for a season; then they will all pass away. That is when we will again say, "IF I had not been hindered, I would have lived my life for the true and living God." We are to lay aside all the things that keep us from dedicating our entire heart, body and soul to the one who can give us an eternal place of rest where all will be joy and He will be the Light. To gain this promise, we are to do as we are instructed in 2 Chronicles 7:14. Here is that word again: "IF my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
The next verse tells even more of His blessing. He says, "Mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place." What place? Wherever the spirit is allowed to move - in your home, your church or wherever you are when you call on the Lord.
In closing, we are again asked what IF Jesus would come to your house today? Would He find you doing His will? Think about it and search your heart for the IFs in your life. Are they pleasing to God, or would He say, "Depart from me, you worker of sinful works. I never knew you." It is a very serious thing to make a promise to follow the path of righteousness. When we make that decision, there should be no IFs that would be displeasing to our Lord.
For now we say Goodbye, God Bless, and IF you do not have a home church, come visit the Cove Mission of Hope in Lanagan, Mo.
Religion on 07/14/2016