Search

Central Haywood Church of Christ

Serving God from the mountains of North Carolina

Tag

Jeff Arnette

Finding Time for Jesus.

With such busy lives, it’s easy for Christians to feel overwhelmed by the constant demands on our time. Things like work, family, friends, and other responsibilities and requirements fill us to the breaking point. Yet, amid the chaos, we need to be reminded of the truth of Matthew 6:33.

In this verse, Jesus challenges us to prioritize our relationship to Him and the Church. I am convinced you know and desire to do it but when are we supposed to find the time to do it. Let me share with you some practical steps that help me start and fill each day with Jesus.

Start your day with prayer.

Those first moments of your day set the tone for the entire day. By beginning with a focus and dependence on Jesus you have set your heart and mind on His purposes. It doesn’t have to be a huge 30-minute prayer session. It can be a short prayer of thanks and seeking His guidance and that will make the day better (Psalm 5:3).

Fill your day with the Lord.

In the book “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence he spoke about filling the things you must do with a focus on the Lord. Take what you are already doing and put Him in it. Think about a passage of Scripture, pray, and whatever you are doing do it for the Lord (Psalm 16:11).

Make time for worship.

Worship doesn’t have to be confined to Sunday mornings. It can happen anytime and anywhere you are glorifying Him. It could be while you’re doing laundry or washing dishes or whatever it is you’re doing. Every second is a time for worship (Psalm 100:2).

Seek fellowship with your church family.

Staying connected with your church family can enhance, inspire, and provide support and accountability for your spiritual journey. It could be a small group, a bible study group, church attendance, or simply fun times surrounded by fellow Christians. Never forget the words of Hebrews 10:25. The Lord and His church want the best for you.

End your day with Jesus.

At the end of your day, spend just a few moments to reflect and give thanks to Him. Think about what went great, when you felt His presence, and areas that you need His help. It will deepen your relationship with Him and help you release the day to Him (Psalm 4:8).

Making time for Jesus doesn’t have to be difficult. Simply include Him in your day and you will enjoy a deeper faith and more meaningful faith that fills you with hope and love.

What the Bible Really Says to Mothers

Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mothers reading this today and those who have acted like a mother to siblings, nieces and nephews, cousins, etc. I want to talk to you about something most women struggle with even those who mother was not in their life. It a myth that many mothers and women believe about themselves.

Continue reading “What the Bible Really Says to Mothers”

10 Verses of Renewal and Hope.

The Bible is filled with hope and encouragement. Jesus Christ was born into this world, lived a sinless and perfect life, died on the cross, and rose again on the third day to pay our debt of sin and give us hope for a better day. Yet life for the faithful Christian can be a difficult and discouraging journey. It can leave us feeling discouraged, defeated, and alone in our daily struggles.

Continue reading “10 Verses of Renewal and Hope.”

Letting Go and Giving Up.

I cannot count the number of times I have heard these two phrases used in Christianity. It’s confusing. In some situations, we’re told to have faith, keep holding on but in others we’re told to let go and put in the hands of the Lord. Which one is it? How can I know which one I’m supposed to do?

Continue reading “Letting Go and Giving Up.”

Abiding in Christ.

The phrase “abiding in Christ” often emerges as a profound yet enigmatic concept, calling us to a deeper understanding of its essence and implications in the life of a believer. The scriptural foundation for this discussion is found in John 15, where Jesus Christ describes Himself as the true vine, with His followers as the branches—a metaphor that encapsulates the life-sustaining relationship between Christ and believers.

Continue reading “Abiding in Christ.”

Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Easter is one of the most important and celebrated events in the Christian calendar. This holiday is focused on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which is the foundation of the Christian faith. It is a powerful symbol of hope, new beginnings, and victory over death.

Continue reading “Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ”

Is Joy Possible Without Happiness?

              There is a common belief in Christianity today that says you can feel joy without feeling emotions like happiness. Often it is presented as if Christianity is not meant to emotional and that being a faithful Christian often results in a life that something less than the abundant life Jesus promised.

Continue reading “Is Joy Possible Without Happiness?”

Emulating Christ: The Path to Genuine Transformation

In our journey through faith and life, the concept of Christlikeness stands as a beacon, guiding us toward the epitome of spiritual maturity. This pursuit, though noble and essential, unveils the vast gulf between our imperfections and the pristine character of Jesus. It beckons a question that resonates deeply within the heart of every believer: How can we truly embody the likeness of Christ in a world brimming with trials and tribulations?

Continue reading “Emulating Christ: The Path to Genuine Transformation”

The challenge to continue learning God’s word.

              Throughout Scripture, we are challenged to grow in our faith and in our understanding of God’s word. Sounds easy enough except when you’ve read and studied it for years and it becomes almost mundane or boring. Not that God’s word is boring but after a while its easy for us to lose sight of just how amazing and exciting it truly is. God has spoken from heaven and given it to us for our good. Yet, we often lose sight of that and drift into complacency.

Continue reading “The challenge to continue learning God’s word.”

From Water To Wine: Embracing The Fullness of Faith.

In John 2:1-11, we find the story of Jesus at a wedding in Cana, turning water into wine. This miracle isn’t just a display of power; it’s a symbol of transformation. Jesus takes something ordinary, water, and turns it into something extraordinary, wine, and not just any wine, but the finest. This act speaks volumes about the nature of Christ’s ministry: taking our ordinary lives and infusing them with extraordinary purpose and joy.

Continue reading “From Water To Wine: Embracing The Fullness of Faith.”

Beyond human limitations: Embracing Divine wisdom in our achievements.

In the shadow of towering achievements and groundbreaking innovations, it’s easy to be dazzled by human capabilities. We live in an era marked by rapid advancements in technology, medicine, and science. Yet, amidst this whirlwind of progress, there lies an essential truth often overlooked: the limitations of human ability and the enduring need for divine guidance.

Continue reading “Beyond human limitations: Embracing Divine wisdom in our achievements.”

A New Year, A Renewed Commitment: Reflective Questions for Church Members

As we welcome the new year, it’s a time of fresh beginnings and renewed commitments. For us this is a unique opportunity to reflect on our spiritual journey and how we can enhance our contribution to the life and health of our church.

Here are some reflective questions to guide us in this process:

Continue reading “A New Year, A Renewed Commitment: Reflective Questions for Church Members”

Christmas: A Spark of Joy in the Darkness

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we find ourselves entering the season of Christmas, a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the greatest celebration of our faith: the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, I want to reflect on the wondrous event of the incarnation, where the eternal Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14).

Continue reading “Christmas: A Spark of Joy in the Darkness”

The Four Sundays of Advent: Reflecting on the Journey to Christmas.

As the crisp air of December descends and the world gears up for the Christmas season, Christians all over the world observe Advent. This period, spanning four Sundays before Christmas, offers a pause in the midst of the holiday frenzy, to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ.

Each of the four Sundays of Advent carries a unique theme, guiding us on a journey of spiritual preparation. Let’s embark on this exploration together, delving into the deeper significance of each Sunday:

Continue reading “The Four Sundays of Advent: Reflecting on the Journey to Christmas.”

Beyond Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day has drawn to a close, the echoes of gratitude linger in our hearts, yet the essence of this celebration shouldn’t fade with the holiday. It’s a catalyst, propelling us forward into a life enriched by continual thankfulness and purposeful action. Beyond the feast and festivities lies a crucial phase—a transition from a day of gratitude to a lifestyle ingrained with thanksgiving. The lessons learned on Thanksgiving Day should serve as stepping stones toward a future brimming with purpose, compassion, and a heart tuned to gratitude.

“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, ESV)

Continue reading “Beyond Thanksgiving Day”

Website Built with WordPress.com.

Up ↑