Salem Wesleyan Methodist Church (Salem, Ohio)

Some things God keeps to Himself and we do not fully understand them. On the other hand, God has revealed some things to us and we are responsible for those things.

God's grace has reached out to all, calling us not only to salvation, but also to service.

Jephthah took position as judge of Israel and began to negotiate with Israel's enemy for their freedom.

As Christians we are individually and collectively a temple for the dwelling of God. If we build on falsehood, the temple will be destroyed. God has always guarded His temple seriously and as holy, so we must take care how we build it.

God has called out to everyone. Those who hear and respond, He sets apart and preserves for His purpose.

Christ told a parable of a wedding in which one came without proper attire. It is only with the garment of Christ's Righteousness, which is offered to all, can we take part in the marriage supper of the Lamb.

As we continue our study of the book of Judges focusing on passing the faith from one generation to the next, we come upon Jephthah who was both a skilled fighter and communicative.

Sin leaves us destitute and no more than a beggar. In this state we are utterly dependent upon God if we want to be made clean. When one such beggar finds relief, it is only natural that he would tell another.

In times like these, it is vital to know what really matters. Sometimes the very things that we think are important may hold us down, but there are some things to keep as priorities for us to make Heaven our home.

While there are many reasons for celebration, one of the greatest is when a seeking Father and repentant child meet.

Although we often remember those who live a spectacular life, the ordinary and seemingly mundane stable influence is vitally important if we are to pass the faith into the next generation.

There is good reason to keep a careful and diligent watch over our heart, for from there come the issues of life. What is in our heart will come out through our words and actions.

God's love is a love of deep compassion that moves Him. His love causes Him to listen to our cry and come to us with freedom to lift us. It is a love that lasts through all times, teaching us and linking us together.

Jesus is the good shepherd who gave His life for us, and therefore He is concerned about the safety, welfare, and comfort of His flock.

There is great power in story to pass a message from one to another. How can we use the power of story to pass on the message of the gospel?

There are many who have darkness in their life, but there is One who knows how to handle the darkness. Jesus is the light who gives brightness, is consoling, heart searching, will be triumphant, and gives witness.

There is much to learn in the book of Judges. This book reminds us of the importance of passing our faith on to the next generation. One way we can do this is through the power of story.

He came. Simple words and a simple statement with a message of significant meaning in our life. That meaning includes a remedy for our sin problem, help in our time of desperate need, and so much more.

In the account of Abimelech, we see the curse of Jotham is fulfilled. We also see the truth of the proverb "though the mills of God's judgement grind slowly, yet they grind exceedingly small."

During this time of year, we all have many things filling our days. What is the end goal and ultimate aim as we engage in all the Christmas activities? May we not forget the greatest gift and take time to revel in it.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem there was much happening in the town, and no room in the inn. Today with much going on in the world around us, and amid our own busy schedules, do we have room for Jesus?

After Gideon died, one of his sons arranged to be anointed king, while another son told a story. Both paved the way for future judgement.

In the darkness of our circumstances and trials, it can be easy to forget God's promises. There are times when from our limited perspective, it may seem that there is a delay in their fulfillment. Let us continue to wait patiently and remain firm in our belief.

When passing the faith to the next generation, it is not simply enough to see our children as good kids. Discipline and humility are important factors in helping them to develop a personal relationship with Christ and be more than just good kids.

God has extended great generosity to us. May we not fail to show appropriate gratitude to Him in response.