February 18

From Pastor Bruce:

This past Sunday, Pastor Dennis talked about 3 levels of reading the Bible. 

Here are some practical helps to move you closer to regular bible-study.   

Familiar Reading-Starting a Bible reading discipline.

Proverbs- There are 31 Proverbs in this Book of Wisdom filled with practical advice on living a Godly life.  Read one chapter a day for a month.

Gospel of John- This book gives you the foundation of Christianity, a firsthand view of Jesus from the man who many consider Jesus’ best friend during His earthly ministry.

Bible Reading Plans-Here is a link to a great on-line bible reading plans. http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/

Foundational Reading-Becoming familiar with the who, why, what, and where of the bible.

 Biographical Bible Reading Plan (121 Days)- Highlights from Adam to Zechariah, read Who's Who of the Bible.     www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/biographical.php

 Survey Bible Reading Plan (61 Days)- Highlights of every book of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation.       www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/survey.php

Navigators Topical Memory System- Includes: book, and 60 verse cards.   www.christianbook.com

Formational Reading-This is the “Word of God” transforming you.

Formational reading applies the Bible to your life, shaping who you are as a disciple.  In Formational Reading our motive is key.

Start Right!-Before you start ask God to use His Word to transform you. 

Scripture Journaling-This is a structured approach to applying scripture to your life.  http://thepracticaldisciple.com/2008/06/scripture-journaling.html 

 Lectio Divina (A meditation of Scripture)                           http://thepracticaldisciple.com/2009/08/praying-scripture-using-lectio-divina.html

Remember the important thing is to get started. 

It is my prayer that these ideas will help you mature as a Christian

 Being the Church and Blessing the World

Other News:

Vocal Workshop/Choir Practice: Tonight, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the basement of the Worship Center.  All who are interested in singing in the Easter choir are invited to come and join in. 

DivorceCare Seminar:  Monday, February 27, at 7 p.m. at 117 Columbus Rd, Fredericktown in room 116 (old high school building). There aren’t many people around you who understand the pain your separation or divorce has caused, to you, your family and your friends.  You may pick up a brochure at the Worship Center foyer in the brochure rack.  Questions?  Contact Mary Lou Andrewjeski at 740.694.2298.

Ladies Tuesday Morning Bible Study:  Tuesday, March 6 – Tuesday, May 22 from 9:15 – 11:00 a.m. at the Worship Center.  All ladies are invited to study “Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World,” by Joanna Weaver.  Facilitator:  Barb Humphrey.  Cost:  $10.  Childcare will be provided.  You can sign up on your Quick Response Form Sunday.  Questions?  Contact Carolyn Staiger at 419.947.5648.

The Art of Marriage Conference: Friday, March 23 – Saturday, March 24 at Camp McPherson just outside of Danville.  Cost is $85 per couple (partial scholarships are available upon request).  Visit the table in the foyer of the Worship Center for more information.  Questions?  Contact Dan or Barb Humphrey at 740.397.3484.

In case of inclement weather go to our website at www.nlifecma.org or listen to 93.7/1300, 106.1/1400, 90.9, or watch 10 TV for closing information.

Prayer and Praise:

Margie Clark is still in ICU at Riverside Hospital. Margie is in serious condition. She still has pneumonia, and is still enduring the effects of a stroke. PLEASE PRAY fervently for her healing, as well as for strength for her husband, Jerry.

Cathy Rinehart’s mom, Harrietta Klinger passed away Sunday.  Pray for her and the family to find peace in their time of grieving.

Bill and Tami Mowery’s son Chase, who is in middle school at Fredericktown had surgery yesterday to remove mass on his throat.  They are awaiting some test results.  Also Tami’s grandma Sylvia passed away earlier this week.   

February 9

From Pastor Dennis:

 A NewLifer passed the following devotional, based on John 8:31-32, from Chuck Swindoll on to me.

 Because there's so much deception in our world, it is essential that we become grounded in the Scriptures. Some believers have accepted erroneous ideas simply because they haven't incorporated truth into their minds and hearts. But how do we go about building a firm foundation of righteousness?

 The first step is to recognize that going to church and listening to sermons is not enough. You need a desire and commitment to begin letting God's Word shape your mind, emotions, and will. Think of an area of need, interest, or struggle in your life. Now find a passage in the Bible that addresses that situation… and begin doing what it says. Then observe the results.

 What has the Lord done in your life? What did you learn about God and His ways? Once you've experienced the blessing of obedience in that area, you'll be ready to apply what the Lord reveals about other aspects of your life.

 One benefit of building truth into your life is freedom. Areas of sin or feelings of insecurity and inadequacy hamper us in so many ways. But when we believe Scripture and act on its truth rather than our emotions or desires, we'll discover that the Lord can overpower whatever holds us captive.

 Those are GOOD words. John 8:31-32 actually says: “… if you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” Those are GREAT words.

 We will look further at how to develop a plan to become spiritually mature people through the Word of God this Sunday. See you then.

 Being the Church and Blessing the World

 Other News:

 “Courageous” Movie & Popcorn: THIS Saturday, at 7pm at the Worship Center. 3 year olds and up may come in their pajamas and bring a sleeping bag or blanket to enjoy a “G” rated movie in the basement. No nursery care provided.

 Beulah Beach (our church camp) presentation: THIS Sunday. Parents are also invited to gather in the basement between services to learn more about our summer camp program.

  Newcomers’ Reception: THIS Sunday after the second service. If you are new to NewLife or have never attended a Newcomers’ Reception you are invited to attend. Come meet some of the leaders at NewLife. Families are welcome.

  Vocal Workshop/Choir Practice: Thursday, February 16, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the basement of the Worship Center.  All who are interested in singing in the choir are invited to come and join in.

  In case of inclement weather go to our website at www.nlifecma.org or listen to 93.7/1300, 106.1/1400, 90.9, or watch 10 TV for closing information.

   Prayer and Praise:

 Steve, Angela and Elias Ball:  You may follow them on their journey of adopting two children from China through their blog, www.saball04.blogspot.com.    

  Mike and Annie Currier’s son Nick has been diagnosed with Cat Scratch Fever.

  Margie Clark is still in ICU at Riverside Hospital. Margie is in serious condition. She is septic, has pneumonia, and is still enduring the effects of a stroke. PLEASE PRAY fervently for her healing, as well as for strength for her husband, Jerry.

 Christine Goeppinger just got out of Knox Community Hospital and is home recovering.  Pray for her to gain her strength back and the fatigue to go away.

February 2

From Pastor Dennis:

What do these verses all have in common?

 Matthew 16:3- “You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.”

John 4:35- “… I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” 

2 Corinthians 2:11- “… For we are not unaware of [Satan’s] schemes.”

2 Corinthians 5:16- “So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view.”

2 Corinthians 10:5- “…we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

James 1:2-3- “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”

 What do those phrases (and many more like them) have in common? They all describe the ability to SEE THINGS AS THEY REALLY ARE! Unfortunately, most Christians have not been taught how to view life with spiritual eyes. Therefore we miss opportunities, we bypass our purpose, we grow discouraged, etc. We then have to spend a great deal of time picking ourselves up from disappointments and confusion. But GOD IS REVEALING HIMSELF TO US ALL THE TIME… AND HE’S ALWAYS AT WORK INVITING US TO JOIN HIM.

 One of the benefits to ENTERING the Kingdom of God is that we are given a new set of eyes. We then have to learn to use those eyes! Seek the Lord in the circumstances of your life. He is often doing more than what meets the human eye. He is working to bring glory to himself by shaping your character or directing you to his service. Can you see it? Will you?

 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you…” Ephesians 1:18

 Being the Church and Blessing the World

 Other News:

 Alliance Women Adventures in Leadership Training:  Saturday, February 4 at 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Worship Center.  All women who lead others either at home, work, or church are invited to attend.  Light refreshments will be served as we learn together from our instructor, Lori Turner.  It is not too late to attend.  Questions?  Contact Carolyn Turner at 419-564-3648 or Lora Thoen at 740-694-6010.

 2011 Annual Report Sunday will be February 5.  Rejoice in what God has done!

 In case of inclement weather go to our website at www.nlifecma.org or listen to 93.7/1300, 106.1/1400, 90.9, or watch 10 TV for closing information.

Prayer and Praise:

Steve, Angela and Elias Ball:  You may follow them on their journey through this blog www.saball04.blogspot.com.    

Mike and Annie Currier’s son Nick has gone to Children’s Hospital in Columbus for testing.  They are waiting for the results.

Janet Anthony, Carolyn Staiger, Diane White and Denise Smith Honduras trip:  Remember to keep them in your prayers while they are gone.

Margie Clark is in Riverside Hospital.  She is recovering from a stroke and other complications.  Pray for healing and for the family to have strength and safety during this time.

January 26

From Pastor Dennis:

 Ever been on a long trip… perhaps traveling across our fine nation? When arriving at Wyoming, some think, Wow! We’ve come a long way! For others, they think, Wow! We have so far yet to go! Both can be encouraging thoughts, especially when you realize you’re on a journey and eventually you’re going home.

That’s a great picture of BEING THE CHURCH and BLESSING THE WORLD! That’s a great picture of NewLife. We only began in 1998… and we’ve come very far. God has done and continues to do wonderful things in our midst and for his glory. Yet… when we look around us… when we look at our community, when we see brokenness in people’s lives, when we see people living life outside of the presence of the Lord, in darkness, without purpose, hurting themselves and others even while trying to find meaning… it reminds us… we have a long way to go!

 NewLife… we’re on an adventure… and eventually we’re going home. Let’s make the most of the adventure! I want you to know that 20 people gathered in prayer last night for you. These pray-ers prayed that WE would continue to be transformed into the likeness of Christ… SO THAT Christ might be displayed IN US to THOSE WHO DO NOT YET KNOW HIM!!!

I encourage you to read 2 Corinthians 3 and 4. But now, hear a few key verses:

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (3:18)

The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ… For God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. (4:4, 6)

Let’s stay on the journey of Being the Church and Blessing the World 

 Other News:

 Wind & Fire Men’s Event:  Saturday, January 28 at Grace Church at Middleburg Heights.  Cost:  $20 per person.  It is not too late to sign up.  Call the office at 740-694-5433. They will meet at the NewLife Church parking lot to car pool at 7 a.m. Saturday. 

Alliance Women Adventures in Leadership Training:  Saturday, February 4 at 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Worship Center.  All women who lead others either at home, work, or church are invited to attend.  Light refreshments will be served as we learn together from our instructor, Lori Turner.  You can sign up on the Quick Response Form Sunday or call the office.  Questions?  Contact Carolyn Turner at 419-564-3648 or Lora Thoen at 740-694-6010.

2011 Annual Report Sunday will be February 5.  Rejoice in what God has done!

Behind the Mask Purity Retreat:  February 10-12, for girls in grades 7-12.  Cost:  $85 per person (scholarships available).  Registration deadline is this Sunday, January 29.  Questions? Contact Michelle Oswalt at 419-571-2019 or youth@nlifecma.org. 

 In case of inclement weather go to our website at www.nlifecma.org or listen to 93.7/1300, 106.1/1400, 90.9, or watch 10 TV for closing information.

Prayer and Praise:

Steve, Angela and Elias Ball to have safe travels starting today through February 16 for their International Adoptions.  Also be praying for Angela’s father who has been having mini strokes and is at Riverside.  He has 90% blockage in his carotid artery and will be having surgery while they are gone.  You may follow them on their journey through this blog  www.saball04.bogspot.com.  Attached you will also find an itinerary of their trip so you can pray daily for their travels. 

 Mike and Annie Currier’s son Nick is running a temp of 101.5 and has been for a ten days. He has had many tests done and nothing found. The doctor wants to send him to an infectious disease doctor at Children's today or tomorrow. Annie would like to wait until Monday to see if this goes away. Please pray for healing and pray for Mike and Annie as they want to make the best decision for Nick.

 Janet Anthony, Carolyn Staiger, Diane White and Denise Smith Honduras  trip:  Attached you will find prayer requests for the Kidz at Heart International Ministry Trip.

January 19

From Pastor Bruce:

 It has been an interesting winter so far.  I have loved the warm balmy weather that we have had in December & January.  The sunshine was also a welcome change from our standard cold, grey winter weather…but today all that has changed.  Today it is snowing.

 Do you know the Bible has 23 different references to snow?

Scripture speaks of God controlling the snow along with all the weather.  We see the “Proverbs 31” woman as someone who is prepared for the cold and the snow.  Snow and its coolness is even described as refreshing in Prov 25:13. 

 Most of us would not describe snow (“White Death” as some have labeled it) as refreshing.

 There are two other references to snow that I want you to remember as the flakes are flying and drifting this winter.

 White as snow is how we are described after Jesus washes our sins.

“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

 The Risen Jesus is described as white as snow.

“As I looked, “thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze.

His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire.

 As you are tempted to curse the snow this winter, think of these references to snow in the Bible.  It may warm your heart and melt away your distaste for the “White Death”.

Being the Church, Blessing the World

 Other News:

 Wind & Fire Men’s Event:  Saturday, January 20 at Grace Church at Middleburg Heights.  Cost:  $20 per person.  It is not too late to sign up.  You can sign up on the Quick Response Form Sunday or call the office at 740-694-5433.  They will meet at the NewLife Church parking lot to car pool at 7 a.m. Saturday. 

Behind the Mask Purity Retreat:  February 10-12, for girls in grades 7-12.  Cost:  $85 per person (scholarships available).  Registration deadline is Sunday, January 29.  Questions? Contact Michelle Oswalt at 419-571-2019 or youth@nlifecma.org.

In case of inclement weather go to our website at www.nlifecma.org or listen to 93.7/1300, 106.1/1400, 90.9, or watch 10 TV for closing information. 

 Prayer and Praise:

 Melanie Gould's friend Vicki has had three operations to remove cancer.  She seems to be in good spirits.  Her lymph nodes came back cancer free but they did remove cancerous cells in her leg.  Keep praying for God to heal the leg and for the cancer to be gone.  

 Joanne Kline, who is Bev Hauenstein’s mom and Hayley Hauenstein’s grandmother, fell this past week.  Joanne broke her arm and fractured her eye socket.  She had surgery on her arm but is waiting for the swelling to go down in her eye area to see what can be done with her eye socket.  Please pray for healing for Joanne.  She will be going to a nursing home for recovery.

 Cathy Rinehart’s mom had surgery yesterday on her spine to remove cancer so she can walk.  Pray for peace for her mom and for the family.  Pray for a healing touch from our Master and Savior Jesus Christ.  Thank you for the prayers.