Kidsworld Connex

Preaching, Prayer, Persecution and Peter

2012-01-22T16:33:00.000-08:00

Peter was one of Jesus' best friends. After Jesus' went to heaven, Peter was one of the leaders of the church. Enjoy reading about something that happened to Peter in Acts 12:1-17.

Have an awesome week!

Reflecting Jesus

2012-01-15T16:38:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 3:18 says, "And we, who with unvelied faces all reflect the Lord's glory."

Just like the moon reflects the light of the sun, we should also reflect to others God's son! When people look at you, do they see a reflection of Jesus?

Moses spent time with God and it changed how people saw him. Read about this in Exodus 34:29-35.

Whatever we do, whatever we say, however we act...people should see Jesus in us!

Reflect him for others to see!

Presence & Power

2012-01-08T13:24:00.001-08:00

God is with us all the time. He is present with us.

Psalm 139:1-10 talks about this. Take time to read that passage of scripture.

When thing are good, God is there.
When things are bad, God is there.

He want to give us the strength and power to make it through the good times and the bad times!

Here's a few more verses to read to remind you that God is with you and he will give you the power to do what you need to do.

Acts 1:8
Revelation 2:3
Titus 2:12
Galatians 5:22,23

Victory Through Obedience

2012-01-02T07:21:00.000-08:00

Joshua and the people of Israel found that when they obeyed God's commands that they received a great victory.

At first, I'm sure that God's directions did not make sense to them. God told them to march around the walls of the city and not make noise. After doing this six days, they needed to march around seven times on the seventh day. They must have been tired!

Then God had them yell and blow trumpets...and the walls fell down! Do you think they even imagined that God would make the walls fall down? That seems to be a crazy idea, but God sometimes does things differently than what we think. Since the Israelites obeyed God, they had a great victory!

Read more about this happening in Joshua chapter 6.

These verses are good to learn and follow too:

Psalm 119:30-34 & 44
Deuteronomy 30:9-11

God bless you!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T19:33:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas! It's time to celebrate the fact that Jesus was born in Bethlehem. He did that so he could grow up and make the sacrifice for our sins. Praise God! ...and Merry Christmas!

Some good verses to read this week are in Isaiah 9:6 and John 1:9-14. Rejoice!

A good friend of mine has posted a fun Christmas video at www.timewithdizzy.com Enjoy!

Christmas Characters: The Wisemen

2011-12-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

One of the most famous parts of the Christmas story is about the wisemen that came from an Eastern country to worship the newborn king, Jesus.

Way back in history, the people of Israel were taken captive by the armies of Babylon. Many of their finest young men were taken to the land of Babylon and were trained to be great leaders and thinkers. Some of their names were Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.

Some think that the "wisemen" who came to worship Jesus were people who followed years after these men. They were smart. They were educated. They knew many things that other normal people did not know. They also knew about God's promises to the people of Israel. They knew that when the star appeared, that it was a sign in the sky that the new King had been born that would save the people of Israel.

You can read more about the wisemen in Matthew 2:1-16 & 19-21.

They traveled a long way to worship Jesus. They brought him gifts. They used their riches to bless Joseph, Mary and Jesus.

During this Christmas season, let's choose to be a blessing to others too!

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Characters - The Shepherds

2011-12-11T12:46:00.001-08:00

Shepherds lived out in the fields to watch over their flocks near Bethlehem. They provided for their sheep and protected them.

According to an Israeli history expert, the flocks near Bethlehem were special. This is where the sheep were raised that would be used for sacrifices at the temple in Jerusalem (Bethlehem was only about five miles from Jerusalem.)

These shepherds knew that their sheep would be used as sacrifices for the sins of the people. So, when the angel announced to them that Jesus would be born, they were able to go and see the "lamb of God"...the one sacrifice for sin that would pay the price for all mankind.

Jesus was born so that EVERYONE could have their sins forgiven and become part of God's family.

Read these verses: 2 Peter 3:9 and Acts 10:34

God even loved the smelly shepherds enough to send angels to make this announcement to them! He loves you too! Read Luke 2:4-20.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Characters: Joseph

2011-12-04T17:34:00.000-08:00

God the Father looked for someone that would be an earthly father for God's son, Jesus. God knew that Joseph loved him and did things right. Because Joseph trusted God, God also trusted Joseph to raise his son.

Read about Joseph in Matthew 1:18-25.

After Jesus was born, something happened that changed Joseph's life again. God expected Joseph, the step-dad of Jesus, to protect his son too. Read about that in Matthew 2:13&14 and 2:19-23. It was important that Joseph listened and obeyed!

He raised Jesus to know God the Father, too. Joseph taught him about God and brought him to the temple in Jerusalem to worship God his Father.

In Matthew 2:51 it says Jesus "...went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them." He obeyed his mother and his step-father.

Many people who study the Bible think that Joseph probably died sometime while Jesus was a teenager. They think that because we read in the Bible about Joseph being with the family when Jesus was 12, but then we do not hear about him any more after that. Also, Jesus waited until he was thirty to start his ministry. Maybe that's because Jesus was staying home and helping Mary his mother (as a carpenter). We don't know for sure, but that's what many people think.

Joseph was a man that God trusted as a dad to his own special son.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Characters - Mary the Mother of Jesus

2011-12-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

Read Luke 1:26-38. This tells about how Mary was willing to do whatever God wanted her to do. Do you have the same attitude as Mary? Are you willing to do whatever God wants you to do?

A Time of Thanks

2011-11-20T19:25:00.000-08:00

When is the right time to give thanks?

Often we would think that the time to give thanks is when someone has been really nice to you. Right? Or when someone has given you a gift.

If we think of it that way, we should always be able to give thanks to God. James 1:17 tells us that God is always blessing us. Take a moment to read that.

The apostle Paul talk about how we should respond, whether things are going good or not. Read Philippians 4:4 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Paul chose to rejoice and thank God, even though sometimes things were hard! In 2 Corinthians 11:24-29 Paul lists a bunch of bad things that happened to him. Yet, he is the guy that tells us that we should still always be giving thanks.

During this week - I encourage you to write down the letters of your name. Can you come up with at least one thing that you can be thankful for using those letters. Here is an example for me:

R - ravioli
A - Assemblies of God
N - nature
D - Dad
Y - yellow

What's yours?

Don't forget 1 Chronicles 16:34 - "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good. His love endures forever." No matter what is happening, don't forget that the Lord is good and He loves you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Law of Lift

2011-11-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, Mr. Vic shared with us about "the law of lift." We have heard of the "law of gravity" in which things are pulled toward the earth.

But, sometimes the "law of lift" can fight and win against the law of gravity. The law of lift means that sometimes things can go UP instead of go down. A helium balloon goes up. An airplane may go up. These are examples of the "law of lift."

We know that things in life sometimes want to drag us down. Satan himself wants to "steal, kill and destroy." But, God gives us somethings to help lift us up spiritually!

One of the things is listed in Psalm 1:1-3. Take time to read that!

Another of the things is listed in Mark 14:38 and Luke 6:12.

When we take time to read God's Word and pray, it will give us the spiritual lift that we need.

Here are some other verses you may read during the week. You can believe them, and know they are true! This is what God says to you:

Psalm 139:1-3 and 14-16
Matthew 10:29,30
Jeremiah 29:11
Psalm 34:18
2 Corinthians 5:18,19
Romans 8:38,39

Have an awesome week, and stay LIFTED UP!

God's Word is Inspired!

2011-11-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

God's Word is "inspired." Do you remember what the word "inspired" means? (see the bottom).

Read 2 Timothy 3:14-17.

God gives us His Word to help us learn and grow and understand. Since the time a person is a little kid that person should be learning what God says in the Bible! God wants you to be "thoroughly equipped for every good work." That only happens when you KNOW what God wants you to do. So, keep reading your Bible!

If you don't know where to start, I recommend starting in the book of Mark. If you read a chapter a day, you will be through that entire book in just a couple weeks.

God bless you, and stay full of God's Word!

(Oh, by the way...the word "inspired" means "God-breathed.")

2 Timothy Series - Fear?

2011-10-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

When you remember that God is with you, you do not need to be afraid.

Psalm 27:1,2 and 2 Timothy 1:7 are great scriptures to remember. Take time to review those right now.

Also, 2 Corinthians 10:5 says that you should "take captive every thought making it obedient to Christ." That means that you CAN take control of your thoughts, even when you are afraid. Choose to think on the good things!

2 Timothy - Follow the Leader

2011-10-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

We are learning about 2 Timothy in Kids Church just like the adults are learning in the adult service.

In 2 Timothy 3:14 Paul said to Timothy, "...as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of..."

Are there things that you have learned from your leaders? Are you convinced they are right? It's important to listen and learn -- but that will not count for much if we are not convinced that they are right and true. If our leaders are right and true, then we should follow their directions and their examples.

Here are some verses that talk about following good leaders:

2 Timothy 1:5
2 Timothy 1:13
1 Corinthians 11:1

We need to follow Jesus. But, there are also people that God brings into our lives that help us understand more how God wants us to live. We can follow their example while they follow Christ's example.

It's not always easy to do what is right, but we need to do what's right anyway. Living for Jesus is not always the easiest life, but it's the BEST life.

May God help each of us to live in such a way that we can say to others, "Follow me as I follow Christ."

BLITZ: Defending With God's Word

2011-10-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

When you put God's Word in your heart and mind you are creating a defensive zone around your heart and attitudes. Psalm 119:9-11 talks about this. Take a look at those scriptures today.

In football, the players wear big pads to protect them from the hits of the opponent. Remember, "Don't get decked, use God's Word to protect."

Take time to read God's Word today. Another great part to read is 2 Timothy 3:14-17. Put God's Word in your heart and also DO IT! and you can be a winner.

BLITZ - Part Four - Make the Block!

2011-10-09T13:55:00.000-07:00

B.L.I.T.Z. stands for "Bold Living In The Zone." We want to live boldly for Jesus wherever we go. We want to show our love to God and to others. Mark 12:30 & 31 talks about that.

In the game of football, many of the players on the field are blockers. They try to defend the person that has the football. Players on the other team are trying to tackle the person that has the ball. That ball carrier needs protection! He needs help!

As Christians, God calls us to help people too. He wants us to help protect others.

Read the scripture in Psalm 82:3,4 and 1 John 3:18.

Are there things that you can do (actions) that will help others? Are there people that are needy that you can defend?

John 10:10 tells us that Satan wants to steal and kill and destroy people. As Christians we should stand in the way of that attack and help protect people. We can do that through prayer. We can give words of encouragement. We can share truth. We can sacrifice something to help others. We can "make the block" when someone is being attacked.

May God help you as you show his love to others this week!

BLITZ: Honor Your Coaches

2011-10-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

God has blessed us with people that act like coaches for us. Coaches help us know how to react. Coaches help us know the right things to do. Coaches teach us how to be better. Coaches help us to be winners!

God has given you "coaches" in many ways. Parents act as coaches. Teachers are like coaches too. Pastors and kids club leaders are like coaches.

Coaches want the best for you. They are FOR you, and not against you. But, sometimes it's hard to obey coaches. Do it anyway! Obey! God has put others in charge to help you. Trust them!

Read Romans 13:1-5 and Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:1-3.

Jesus said, "If you love me, you will obey what I command." (John 14:15)

You can show your love and respect to your leaders by choosing to obey right away.

React - means you do not delay, but get up and do what you are supposed to do right away.
Respect - means you do it with a cheerful positive attitude
Respond - means you say back, "Yes_________, I will _________________."

Sometimes it's hard. But, you can do it...with God's help...you can do it! And you'll be glad that you did.

BLITZ: Keep Your Head In the Game!

2011-09-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our 72 bike riders who raised money to help missionaries and people around the world! We are so proud of you for making the extra effort so others will know the love of Jesus!

In Matthew 22:36-40 it tells us that Jesus wants us to love God and love others.

If we love God, we will tell others about His love. If we love God, we will also show others his love. Lastly, 1 John 5:21 tells us something else we should do if we love God. Take time to read that verse.

We need to keep Jesus #1 in our hearts and lives. He loves you so very much!

BGMC Bike Day

2011-09-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, September 25th, we will join together to raise money for the "Boys & Girls Missionary Challenge." Bring your bike next Sunday! If you do not have a bike to ride, please contact Pastor Randy at the church and we will find one for you!

Ask friends and family and neighbors and others if they would help you raise money to help others know the love of Jesus. BGMC helps missionaries pay for things. The money you bring in helps children in orphanages have food, clothing and supplies. It helps pay for clean water wells in Africa. It helps pay for Bibles and Christian books and reading materials that help others know Jesus. Children all over the United States help raise money so that people around the world can know about Jesus and experience the love of God.

That's what BGMC is about...and that's why we want to raise money for BGMC! Come on out and help raise money for BGMC. Do your best, and God will help you. Last year we had over 60 kids ride for BGMC Bike Day. This year, let's set a record and have the most riders ever! (Top fund raisers will receive a special prize. All riders will receive awards too!) See you on Sunday for BGMC Bike Day!

BLITZ! Obey God's Top Ten

2011-09-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

We have begun a football "BLITZ" series. "BLITZ" stands for "Boldly Living In the Zone." God wants us to live bold, strong lives for Him!

In John 14:15 Jesus said, "If you love me, you will obey what I command." We show love when we obey the commands that we are given...whether that's with God, or at home, or at school.

Some of the commands that God has given to us are found in Exodus 20. You can read about Moses and the Israelites coming to the mount of God in Exodus 19:16-25. Then, read the commandments -- the top ten -- in Exodus 20:1-21.

We know that we are not saved because of our good works (Ephesians 2:8,9 tells us that) but if we love God, we will do our best to obey his commands!

Thankful For America!

2011-09-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

Have you ever stopped to think about how blessed we are to live in our country? Some people in some countries do not have the freedom to make choices. They are not able to even worship Jesus! But WE GET TOO!

In Deuteronomy 28:1-14 God made promises to the nation of Israel. He told them that if they would obey Him, they would be blessed by God. I believe that God is true to his promises and if we will choose to obey him -- as Americans -- that He will bless us too! Take time to read about God's blessings in Deuteronomy 28.

And one more verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14.

May God bless America...as America chooses to bless God!

Prayertime

2011-09-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

God wants us to talk with him. We listen to what He says to us as we read His Word (the Bible) and we also listen to him in our hearts and minds. We also speak to him. Jesus encourages us to pray! Read in Luke 11:1-10 about Jesus' advice to his disciples about prayer!

Give God 5! Five minutes of praise and worship. Five minutes of Bible reading. And five minutes of prayer each day!

The L.O.L. Show!

2011-08-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the L.O.L. Show coming to the AG Church on the Wednesday after Labor Day! This is a night full of fun and laughter as Ben Christensen, Don B! and Pastor Randy share their favorite funny stuff! Juggling, illusions, unicycling and much more! It starts at 6:30. Bring your friends for a fun-filled time!

Find out more about the L.O.L. Show at http://www.bencomedy.com/LOL.html

God's Word Will Stand Forever

2011-08-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

We had a great Sunday morning in Kids Church with our "Incredible Game Day!" This was a fun time of reviewing Bible lessons and verses from the past couple of months.

We want to continue to put God's Word in our hearts and minds -- not just at church but also throughout the week. Here are some verses about just that:

Psalm 119:9-11,
Joshua 1:8,
Matthew 24:35
Psalm 1:1-3

Have a great week!

Peer Pressure

2011-08-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

Doing what is right is not always easy...even for Christians! Sometimes Christians go through hard times and have to make tough decisions too.

In Daniel 1,2 & 3 it tells us about three young guys who had to make the tough decision to obey God rather than men. You can read about them there. They probably knew the scripture in Deuteronomy 6:18. (Take a moment and read that.)

Sometimes we are tempted to do what is wrong. Proverbs 1:10 says, "My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them." Do NOT give in when you are tempted to do what is wrong! ...even if someone else is trying to get you to do the wrong thing.

God wants to help you! Take some time and pray and God will give you the strength and help you know what to do.

Have an awesome week!

Dreams Still Come True

2011-08-04T09:29:00.001-07:00

As we finish our "Circus Dreams" theme in Kids Church this Sunday. I'm inspired by the thoughts (and the song) that Yancy Richmond shares on her blog.

The song "Dreams Still Come True" was our theme song for VBS.

Head over to Yancy's blog and you can even download the song to listen to at home! Make sure you talk to your parents about that, BEFORE downloading anything on your computer.

Here is the link address: http://yancynotnancy.com/2011/02/24/dreams-will-come-true/

Keep Dreamin!

Pastor Randy

Circus Dreams VBS!

2011-08-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

We are having an awesome time at "CIRCUS DREAMS"!

Sunday morning we learned about Joshua 1:9, "Be strongt and courageous...God will be with you wherever you go."

Sunday night we learned about Proverbs 2:6 "The Lord gives wisdom, and...knowledge and understanding."

Monday night we learned about Hebrews 11:6 "Without faith it is impossible to please God."

Tuesday night we learned about Daniel 3:17 "The God we serve is able to save us."

Wednesday night is a great FAMILY NIGHT with the "Ponderings of a Fool" Circus Show for everyone!

And next Sunday morning we will do our last "CIRCUS DREAMS" program during kids church at 9:00 and 10:45. We hope you can be there!

Circus Dreams VBS

2011-07-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday we begin our 2011 Vacation Bible School. Every night we will have special performances by Jaime Zayas (from Puerto Rico), Vanessa Waggoner (from St.Louis) and our own Ben Christensen (from Willmar, MN).

Kids will be able to meet them in Kids Church this Sunday morning as we begin our pre-VBS stuff in Kids Church. Then, Sunday night, you may check in at 5:30. You do not have to wait until 6:00! Be there at 5:30.

Bring a friend! It's going to be a blast!

A Life of Worship

2011-07-26T19:44:00.001-07:00

Worship is not just a "Sunday thing" but an "Life-thing." We choose to worship him daily. Romans 12:1 tells us that God calls us to give our whole lives to him as a "living sacrifice." (That's a good verse to read.)

Read Psalm 100. Also, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 tells us what we should be doing.

Praise God today. Be a praiser and not a complainer!

Just a Minute!

2011-07-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Sorry that this blog is coming to you a bit later than I wanted.

I am at the Iowa District of the Assemblies of God Kids Camp this week. I tried to log on earlier in the week, but the computer did not cooperate! I tried and tried, and waited and waited. ...today I'm on a different computer.

Sometimes we need to "wait just a minute!" God has a different view of time than we do. With Him, a "thousand years is as a day."

Last Sunday we talked about that and also played some "Minute to Win It" games. In life, sometimes you only have just a minute to make a good decision, or make a poor decision. You have just a "minute to win it" or in that minute you may lose it!

Some guys had decisions to make "in a minute" in Luke 10:30-37. Take a minute to read about that in God's Word today!

You Want Me To Do What?!

2011-07-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes God asks us to do things that just don't seem to make sense. But, God's ways are not always the same as man's ways. Here's a few verses that show that:

Luke 6:27-36 & Matthew 10:38,39

God knows best! Remember Proverbs 3:5,6 and things will work out good if you obey God!

The Pledge of Allegiance

2011-07-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Kids Church on July 3rd. We talked about how God has blessed America, and that America should also bless God!

Here is one of my favorite videos for the Fourth of July. This old guy's name was Red Skelton. He's talking about the meaning of the pledge of allegiance here. Enjoy!

http://sonvine.com/2011/07/02/red-skeltons-pledge-of-allegiance/

Animal Planet - Horses

2011-06-27T10:19:00.001-07:00

Many times in the Bible we read about people riding horses. Probably the most exciting one I know is found in Revelation 19:11-21. It tells about when Jesus will come back and "the armies of heaven" come riding with him!

We know that Jesus will come back. He said he would. Read John 14:1-3. When Jesus says it, you know that it will happen!

Animal Planet - Learn From the Ant

2011-06-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 30:24-28 “Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer; coneys (rock badgers) are creature s of little power, yet they make their home in the crags; locusts have no king, yet they advance together in ranks; a lizard can be caught with the hand, yet it is found in kings’ palaces.

Every creature has something unique and interesting about them.

These creatures in Prov 30 are not known for their strength, power, awesomeness, but here they are listed in the Bible as creatures we can learn from:

Ants have little strength. But, one thing they do is store up their food. What do we learn from that?

Work now. Rest later. - Prepare now. Party later.

When you have chores to do, or an assignment ...do you “get it done” or put it off? It would be smart to learn from the ant and decide to work now. Rest later - Prepare now. Party later.

Many people – when it comes to work—say “I don’t feel like it.”

My question is this, “Is it RIGHT to do?” If it is the RIGHT thing to do, do not procrastinate, but do it now! Learn from the ant.

Animal Planet - Be Like A Bug!

2011-06-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

There are some bugs that we should TRY to be like!

I'm not saying that you should "bug" your sister or brother. You should not "bug" your mom or dad. I'm not saying that you should. I'm saying that there are some bugs we can learn from. There are four bugs that we talked about during Kids Church on June 12th.

1. Praying mantis: Read the verses found in Psalm 55:17 and 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

2. Firefly: When I was a kid, we called these "lightning bugs." You can be like a firefly too! Read these verses: Matthew 5:14-16

3. Bee: Do you carry sweetness from one place to another? You should! Read Romans 12:9-18

4. caterpillar into butterfly: God wants to keep on changing us so we will be more like Jesus. Read these verses to understand more about that. Philippians 2:12-15 and 2 Corinthians 5:17.

Have an incredible week! Be like a bug!

Animal Planet 1

2011-06-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry that we missed you last week. Some problems happened when updates were made with our google service, but we think that are fixed now.

The last Sunday in May, Vic Poverud led the final session of "Beefesians" as we took a cowboy western look at how Christians should behave.

This first Sunday of June we are starting the theme of "Animal Planet." There's some really interesting stuff on their website that you may like to look at.

God created everything...and all of nature points back to Him. In Revelation 5:13 John the Apostle says, "Ii heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them saying, 'To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!'" All of creation praises God!

This first Sunday of "Animal Planet" we talked some about schools of fish, and chickens, and Betta fish. There's a lesson we can learn from each of these that may help us behave better as Christians. Do you remember?

As part of God's creation, we should all bring honor and glory to Him! Check out Psalm 96:13.

Some of the other verses we talked about on Sunday were:

(the beam) in Matthew 7:2-5
(Peter) in Matthew 26:69-75

Beefesians - Be Patient With Those That Are Different

2011-05-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

Ephesians 4:2 says, "...be patient, bearing with one another in love."

God has made each of us different, and sometimes those differences can irritate another person. At those times, we need to stop and be thankful for others.

Jesus showed love, acceptance and patience with others that were different from him. You can read about one friendship Jesus had with a man who many other people didn't like at all. You can read that in Luke 19:1-10.

Even when others start to "bug you"...be patient! ...and show the love of Jesus.

Beefesians: Believe!

2011-05-17T12:48:00.000-07:00

We are learning lessons from the book of "B"-Ephesians during this month. Ephesians 2:8 says, "By grace you have been saved through faith -- and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God."

"Faith" is belief and complete trust in God. If you have put your faith in Him, that means that you believe in Him, and you believe that what He has done for you is really real. You trust that what He has said in the Bible is true for you too.

Hebrews 11:6 tells us that it is impossible to please God if we do not have _______________. (Look it up and you'll find the answer!)

During this week, you may want to read Acts chapter 19. (Yeah, all of it.) It tells about some of Paul's adventures while in the city of Ephesus. Later on, he wrote a letter to them. It's called the Letter to the Ephesians...which we now know as the book of Ephesians.

Have a great week, and keep on believing!

Beefesians - Belong To The Herd

2011-05-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

Howdy Pard'ner!

We had a rootin' tootin' praisin' time this morning in Kids Church! We've started a series of lessons from the book of Ephesians...and we are doing it "country western style"....so we are not just doing "Ephesians" but, "BEEFesians!"

Just like a cattle need to be brought into the corral, God wants to bring each of us into his corral too! He wants us to be a part of his Kingdom. He wants us to be a part of the group of believers called "the church."

When you belong to Jesus, you also belong to a great group of folks who love God and love others. You belong to the family of God.

Ephesians 1:5 says, "His unchanging plan has always been to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. And this gave him great pleasure." Jesus was so happy -- it gave him great pleasure -- when we were brought into God's family.

And that's where YOU belong! God has a place for you in His family -- the church.

Take time today and read about Peter in Acts 12:1-18. It tells about Peter being in the wrong place -- prison. He did not belong there! He belonged with the followers of Jesus -- the church! Read in Acts 12 to find out what happened!

See you soon!

Family Sunday

2011-05-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

We just a had a wonderful Sunday as families sat together in our sanctuary this past Sunday morning. Congratulations to our Honor Star girls! ...and also to the families who dedicated their youngest ones.

I spoke about this: "Understand. Engage. Transform!"

We first understand the situation or the need. Then we engage with people. Then God does something great.

We see this same pattern over and over throughout scripture.

Read in Mark 8:21-25. You'll see how Jesus understood a man's need. Then Jesus engaged with him. Then Jesus transformed the guy's life!

Sometimes we need Jesus to touch us too....so we can see things the way that HE sees things.

See you soon! Have a great week!

The Covenant of Healing

2011-04-19T11:27:00.001-07:00

Mr. Vic Poverud shared his testimony of healing after he broke his back many years ago. He fell off of a building that he was working on!

We know that Exodus 15:26 says, "I am the Lord who heals you."

Another great passage to read is in James 5:13-16.

We know that God's desire is to help us and bless us. Sometimes we do not see healing right away...but keep on trusting God! Pray, in faith, and know that God's promises are still true.

Isaiah 53:3-5 is a great passage to read during this "Holy Week" before Easter.

Trust God! He will help you!

Another video you may really enjoy during this Easter season may be found at www.timewithdizzy.com This is a clown friend of ours that has been here in Willmar with us a few different times. Enjoy!

God's Covenant Partner

2011-04-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

The book of Genesis shares an incredible story about a covenant agreement that God made with Abraham. You may read this true happening in Genesis chapter 15.

This covenant was so important, and so serious, that live animals were sacrificed. Their blood sealed the covenant.

A covenant is a very serious agreement or official contract. It may be interesting to look at a contract that your parent(s) have signed. Maybe they have one that they signed to buy a house, or a car, or something else.

The Bible tells us that this special covenant that God made with Abraham really came to pass when his descendant -- Jesus -- shed his blood as a sacrifice for our sins. You can read more about that special covenant this week by looking up these verses.

Hebrews 6:13-15
Hebrews 8:6-13
Hebrews 9:15
Hebrews 13:20

The Lenten Season

2011-04-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

Just like we have a season before Christmas called "Advent," We also have a time before Easter called "Lent." "Lent" usually is 40 days long. It's a time when we focus on what Jesus has done for us at the cross.

Many churches take forty days because Jesus went into the desert and fasted for forty days. After Jesus fasted for 40 days, Satan came and tempted him. But, Jesus STILL stayed focused on spiritual things, rather than on earthly things. You can read about this happening in Matthew 4:1-11.

Colossians 3:2 shares what we should do. (Read it!)

When we stay focused on eternal things - spiritual things - then we will not be so concerned about the temporary things of this earth. "Lent" is a good time to really take time to focus on Jesus and what he has done for us. In order to do this, maybe there are some things that you should "cut away" from your normal practices.

One more verse - Read Galatians 2:20.

Have a great week loving and knowing Jesus better!

Put In the Word!

2011-03-27T14:12:00.000-07:00

Simon De Clown helped us understand why it's important to put God's Word in our hearts! Psalm 119:9-11 talks about that. (Take a moment and read that.)

Simon chased a fly that was bugging him. Finally, he got rid of it by using "bug spray" that he took from his Holey Bible. He then showed a sign that read:

The Bible. Read It. It will get the bugs out!

When we put God's Word (the Bible) into our hearts and minds, God can show us what we should do and what we should not do. Also, as we put God's Word into our hearts and minds, we also receive spiritual power that helps us to not sin. Here's a few more verses to read, to learn, and to live!

Hebrews 4:12
2 Timothy 3:15-17
Psalm 1:1-3

Incredible Game Day

2011-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we had a blast reviewing many important truths and scriptures that we've learned since the beginning of the year. Those that could tell us the review answers were able to participate in some INCREDIBLE games. What a fun day!

Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:2 tell us something we should do with our Bibles. Take time to read those verses!

The word "meditate" means to chew on it over and over and over.

Keep learning, thinking about, and living out God's Word!

Personal Prayer

2011-03-11T10:05:00.001-08:00

It's great when other people pray for you, but it's probably even more important that YOU take personal time to pray! Sometimes we don't know exactly what to say, so here's something that may help you to PRAY.

P - praise. Tell God what you are thankful for, and also tell Him how great you think He is!

Psalm 100:4, Psalm 146:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:17,18

R - Repent. Choose to go God's way instead of your own. Ask for forgiveness too.

Acts 3:19, 1 Kings 8:46-50

A - Ask. God invites us to pray for ourselves and also for the needs of others.

Matthew 7:7-11

Y - Yeild. Don't be stubborn, but decide to go with God's best plan! Also, take time to listen to what God is saying to you in your heart, mind and soul.

1 Peter 5:6,7, Matthew 6:9,10, 1 Samuel 3:1-10

May God bless you as you take time to P.R.A.Y.!

March Missions Madness 2010

2011-03-08T14:21:00.001-08:00

Each Kids Church kid will be given a “M&M” container to remind them that March Missions is here! We invite each child to share the treat with others. We also need to share Jesus with others, don’t we?

Bring back the M&M container with quarters each Sunday during March and we will give your child another to fill up. If you don't get it filled all the way, don't sweat it! Just do what you can. :O)

During March Missions Madness we will also be doing some special basketball awards for those participating in BGMC.

Also, check out the BGMC kids website for great stories, games, and more at www.BGMCkids.ag.org

Energized Through Prayer

2011-03-07T06:58:00.000-08:00

1 Timothy 4:8 says, "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." Exercising our bodies is good for us. But, exercising our spiritual faith is even better for us. You can be STRONG spiritually if you will do spiritual exercises!

One of the most important things you may do to stay spiritually strong is PRAY. The Bible tells us we should pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

We learned the verse if Psalm 55:17. Do you remember it?

Also, take time to read Luke 11:1-4 and Philippians 4:6-7.

Often, the hardest minute to pray is the first minute. Once you get started, it's easy. Take time to talk with God today. He wants to hear from you, and speak to you.

Penguins - Honoring Others

2011-03-02T13:31:00.000-08:00

We just watched the 3,2,1 Penguins DVD, "Trouble on Planet Wait-Your-Turn." The penguins and the planet inhabitants had to learn to be patient and allow others to go first. That's part of showing honor to others.

Romans 12:10 says, "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." That means that we show our love to others by treating them with honor. We need to put others first, rather than selfishly putting ourselves first.

Read Romans 12:9-21. It lists a whole bunch of things that we should do to show honor and love to others. Also read James 4:1-3 and Philippians 2:3.

It's hard to put others first sometimes, but God will help you! That's what Jesus did. He put OUR NEEDS first.

Have a great day! The penguins are leaving, and hopefully Spring is coming soon!

Thoughts For Parents on FACEBOOK

2011-02-21T12:15:00.000-08:00

On a snowy day, many people stay in side and watch a DVD, play a game, or go on the computer. Though, Facebook is intended for older folks (yes, there is supposed to be an age limit) many kids are involved in Facebook. Here's some great thoughts from www.EpicParent.tv
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Facebook is a great place to re-unite with old friends, make business connections, drive traffic, expand spiritual influence and post pics from 82 while you skated to “Another One Bites the Dust”. Facebook can also be a place of lust, secrecy and it can be a dangerous place for kids to spend their time.

FACEBOOK DANGERS FOR CHILDREN:

* Identity Theft: Scammers are lurking behind the pages to steal your kids personal information.
* Blemished Reputation: “A recent Career-Builder survey found that 45% of employers use sites like Facebook to research candidates; 35% found content that led them to reject a prospect.”
* Outrageous Spending: Kids are spending mom & dad’s cash on credits and Facebook games. The charges typically show up on mobile phone accounts. (be sure to double check your bill)
* Sexual Content: A 12 year old recently received a “how are you in bed” quiz on their wall.
* Predator Activity: Predators pose as children on Facebook with the goal of connecting and harming children. Peter Champman used Facebook as a tool to meet, rape and kill 17 year old Ashleigh Hall. You can read the story HERE.
* Addiction: Facebook can become addicting and zap all your kiddos time.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR KIDS ON FACEBOOK:

* Honest Conversation: Sit down with your kids and share with them the dangers Facebook presents. Don’t scare them, just make them aware of the risks.
* Form Rules: I encourage all parents to agree upon specific rules when it comes to Facebook, write down the rules so there are no questions asked.
* Watch Closely: As your children are creating their profile, watch closely and make sure there is no personal information shared.
* Use Privacy Links: Set your kids profile to private, this means that only approved friends can view your child’s information. Check out this detailed explanation on how to set up a private profile, READ HERE.
* Set Time Boundaries: Last week I did a post, 11 SIGNS MOM & DAD ARE ADDICTED TO FACEBOOK. Your kids can be addicted too, monitor their time.
* Be Their Friend: Create your own profile and become your kid’s friend.
* Monitor Behavior: Regularly check out the posts and pics associated with your kids’ profile.
* Just Say NO: Many requests and game invites contain malware that will infiltrate your computer system.
* Flag The Bully: If your child is being bullied, Facebook makes it easy to report the issue. Read HERE for more information.
* PcPandora: You can record every move made on your kids computer, read more HERE.

Penguins: Sharing & Caring

2011-02-11T09:16:00.000-08:00

When God created everything, it was perfect! But, then Adam and Eve sinned. Sin brings destruction and pain. That sin not only affected people, it actually affected the entire creation when sin entered the world!

Read Romans 8:20,21

God has blessed us with a wonderful world that we share with all mankind. In Genesis 2:15 it says, "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."

God still wants us to take care of this earth. Remember, there are three things we can do that may help us do that. Each one starts with the letter "R". Do you remember? (Find the answers at the end of this page)

We also need to be caring for God's greatest creation -- people! God has given us people to share with and to care for. Pray about what God may want you to do to share and care for others!

(The answer for the 3 "R's" are: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle)

Penguin Series: Praisers NOT Complainers!

2011-02-08T13:16:00.000-08:00

Ooooooo, February is COLD!

There are some animals that have learned how to survive in the cold, and how to keep good attitudes while doing it too! They are penguins.

This past Sunday we learned a lesson from 3,2,1 Penguins about having a good atittude. We know that God wants us to be PRAISERS and not COMPLAINERS. Say it with me, "Praisers NOT complainers."

It's always easy to focus on the little things that we don't like. God wants us to focus on the good things and be thankful!

Maybe today you could sit down and make a list of things for each person in your family. List the things you like about them, and they are good at, and that you are thankful for. Skip listing the things that bug you. You don't want to focus on the bad things anyway. Be thankful for the good. It will mean a lot if you share that list with your family members.

Here's some good scriptures to keep in mind.

John 6:43 * Philippians 2:12-15 * 1 Peter 4:8-10

I know that it's sometimes hard to not complain, but if you focus on the good, it will be a lot easier. Jesus will help you with that if you ask him too. Now, there's something to pray about, huh?

Have an incredible week! Be a praiser and not a complainer! Everyone will be happier that way!

Faithful Until Jesus' Return

2011-01-31T17:34:00.001-08:00

We had an incredible Sunday with "Big Dan" Rector. He talked with us about what Jesus wants us to do until He returns and takes us to be with him.

Revelation 2:10 is important for us to believe. It says, "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life."

God calls us to live faithfully to his Word. He wants us to follow His ways and do our best until He comes back and takes us to be with him.

Here's a few verses to read, think about, and pray about. God bless you!

John 14:1-3
Matthew 24:36-44

Pray In the Spirit

2011-01-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

God wants to help each of us with our weaknesses. We all have problems and God has set up a plan to help us.

It won't surprise you to know that a big part of that solution is PRAYER. When we pray, God works. But, the hard thing sometimes is to know what to pray. That's what Paul was talking about in Romans 8. He said,

"the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes (prays) for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit,...and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him..." (vs.26-28)

You see, God wants to help us...and one of the main ways is that he helps us pray. We do not know what we should pray for...but God does! So, he HELPS us pray. The Holy Spirit is our helper.

Here's a few more verses to read and consider:

1 Corinthians 14:1,2 and 15
Jude 23
Acts 19:1-6

God can help you pray in language you know, and He can also help you pray in languages that only HE knows. "Really?" you ask. Well, Jesus said, "With God, all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Ugly Sweater Contest for BGMC

2011-01-18T11:41:00.000-08:00

Starting on Sunday, January 30th, you will be able to vote on which sweater you think is the ugliest/cheesiest. You vote by putting money into the container matched with the sweater you want to vote for.

The winning sweater will be decided on Sunday, February 20th. On the following Sundays both Pastor Randy and Pastor Keith will wear the winning sweater!

Why the “Ugly Sweater Contest” ?
Assemblies of God World Missions, in collaboration with BGMC, have declared 2011 as the “Year of the Child.” The main theme for “Year of the Child” is:

“No Child Without” ...without food
...without water
...without clothes
...without JESUS!

We understand that our offerings given towards the “ugly sweater” will help feed and clothe children around the world. Thank you for your support and involvement.

Your Word Is A Lamp

2011-01-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." God gives us His word to help light our path so we know where to go and what to do.

Have you tried walking through the room in the dark? (...you could try that tonight) It's easy to stub your toe, unless you've totally memorized where to walk.

Well, God's Word helps us know how and where to "walk" in our spiritual lives and in our relationships. Take time to read these verses today.

Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:9-11, 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Put God's Word in your heart and mind. Pray, listen, and let God guide your paths today!

Voyage of the DawnTreader: Come to the Table

2011-01-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

At the end of their adventure, Euastace, Edmund, Lucy, Prince Caspian and the DawnTreader crew come to Ramandu's Island. They come to find a large banquet table that is filled with all the best and richest foods for them to eat. The table -- known as Aslan's table -- is daily re-set for any travelers who have come the long journey to the end of the world. All are welcome to eat and be refreshed.

It reminded me of a story Jesus told about a great banquet. You may read the story that Jesus told at Luke 14:15-23.

God wants to help us, refresh us, strengthen us, and give us rest for our souls. He will, but we need to slow down and "come to His table". Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) God can feed - not just your body - but your soul.

Take time to pray today, worship Him, listen to Christian music, and He will refresh you.

2010-12-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine has a fun clown Christmas video you can watch at www.timewithdizzy.com. Take a look and have a totally awesome Merry Christmas!

Pastor Randy

Star Shining Brightly!

2010-12-20T09:43:00.000-08:00

In the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Prince Caspian comes to an island just before the end of the world. On this island, a person named Ramandu and his daughter live. They also "glow." The daughter's name is Lilliandil (pronounced "Lil-ee-ann-dil"). We find out that Ramandu is a "star" that is once again gaining his energy by eating fireberries. He will one day head back into the sky. Though he was a "person," Ramandu was also a star.

Lilliandil looks like a beautiful young lady. After Caspian travels out to the end of the world, he comes back and asks her to marry him. Which she does. Lilliandil becomes the Queen of Narnia!

At the Christmastime, we also think about the STAR that lit the way to Jesus. When the wisemen followed the star, they were able to find Jesus and worship him. Read about that in Matthew 2:1-11.

We can lead people to Jesus too. When we live lives that "shine for Jesus" by having good attitudes and kind actions, people see that Jesus love is really in us.

Matthew 5:16 talks about that. Do you remember it? Check it out in your Bible.

Also, Daniel 12:3 says that YOU can be like a Christmas star! Take a moment and read that one today too.

Merry Christmas!

We Need To Be Un-Dragoned

2010-12-13T18:41:00.001-08:00

Eustace the Dragon
In "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," Eustace Scrubb had a transformation. ...and he needed one! Eustace had a bad attitude, and he was very arrogant and selfish. He always thought of himself first, and tried to make himself look better than others.

He had "dragonish" thoughts...and they eventually changed him into that VERY thing...a dragon! Proverbs 23:7 tells us, "as he thinks within himself, so he is."

But, he was not hopeless. Eustace could change, if he allowed Aslan to help him.

We also need God's help to change and become the people God has designed us to be. Read these verses today to learn more about that:

Romans 12:2,
1 Peter 1:14,15
Ephesians 2:8-10
2 Corinthians 5:17

Who Let the Dogs In?!!!

2010-12-07T14:35:00.000-08:00

During this past month our children raised over $,1250 for the Boys and Girls Missionary Challenge! Pastor Randy and Mr. Vic both said that if the kids raised that much money, that they would eat DOG FOOD! So, this past Sunday morning...it happened!

Kids cheered and laughed and Mr. Vic and Pastor Randy both were willing to sacrifice their tastebuds (and stomachs!) in order to help kids around the world hear about the love of Jesus!

Great job, kids! And great job, Mr. Vic and Pastor Randy!

Deathwater Island

2010-12-07T14:31:00.000-08:00

In the "Voyage of the Dawn Treader" the crew finds a lake where the water turns items to gold. Prince Caspian and Edmund begin to argue about who owns the lake. It reminded me of the scripture in 1 Timothy 6:9-11. Take time to read this important scripture.

Secondly, plan now to join other families at the Carmike Theater in Willmar on Wednesday, December 15 to view the "Dawn Treader" movie inspired by C.S. Lewis' book!

There Is Another World!

2010-11-23T18:58:00.000-08:00

C.S.Lewis made up a number of stories in a fantasy place called Narnia. At times, people would travel from our world through some magical way into the land of Narnia.

We know that we all are destined for another place...another very real place. It's called heaven. Jesus himself came from there, was born as a baby, grew up and became a man, died on the cross for our sins and has returned heaven. But, before he left, he made a promise that he would come back and take us to be with him. Read what he said in John 14:1-3.

While we enjoy imagining about make-believe places like Narnia...never forget that there REALLY IS another place that YOU BELONG! It's a wonderful place where you will get to live with HIM forever!

Imagine!

2010-11-21T12:09:00.000-08:00

God has great things in store for you! Ephesians 3:20 says that God can do more than we can even ask or imagine!

C.S. Lewis (a smart college professor)wrote a number of books for children called "The Chronicles of Narnia." He used his imagination to take people into the imaginary world of Narnia.

Even though there's all kinds of imaginary adventures...many of they stories and lessons that we see can help us understand more about spiritual lessons and REAL things that are recorded in the Bible.

The Bible is totally true. The Narnia stories are make-believe. But the truths are totally true too.

Jesus had people use their imaginations as he told them stories. His stories were told so people would think about spiritual truths. God wants us to use our imaginations!

When you think of how great God is and the great things He can do... you do not even come close to how great He really is! Read Ephesians 3:19 & 20. God wants to do great things in your life too!

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During this time of Thanksgiving, enjoy watching Pastor Randy's friend, "Dizzy" at www.timewithdizzy.com She is learning a lesson about giving thanks. Enjoy!

Let's Make A Deal

2010-11-14T19:51:00.000-08:00

Today we talked about how all of our choices bring results. When we make bad choices, it brings bad results. When we make good choices, it brings good results.

Sometimes we don't know what choices to make. That's when we really should follow the direction of Proverbs 3:5,6. Take a look at that scripture today

Have a great week, and see you next Sunday for the first in a series of services based on "The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the DawnTreader."

Kids Church

2010-11-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, Donovan Kuehl came to Kids Church and put this together. He wanted our families to see a bit of what happens on a Sunday morning. Please know that parents are always welcome to sit in on a Sunday morning with their child. It's great to experience church together with your child in a place where your child will be nurtured.

God bless you!

Attitude Towards Others

2010-11-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

A song was played on a video we watched about the Good Samaritan. Here are the words:

My hands are the Lord’s hands. Without me, how can his work be done? I will reach where he would reach: Loving kindness in my touch. I will be his healing touch to everyone.

My feet are the Lord’s feet. Without me, how can he walk with the poor? I will go where he would go, blessing others as I do. For him, I’ll walk where I’d never walk before. Help me Lord, let me give to my neighbor what you would give if you were here. Help me, Lord. Let me live so my neighbor will know you are always near.

My mouth is the Lord’ mouth. Without me, how can this voice be heard? I will say what you would say, speaking love and life each day, and everyone who’s near will hear his word.

God wants us to have attitudes that put others first. ...loving attitudes. ...kind attitudes. ...helpful attitudes.

Luke 10:25-37 records Jesus talking about this exact thing. Take some time to read that story today. Then take some time to think and pray about who you may help. Then DO it!

Fear?

2010-11-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

God does not want you to be full of fear! I think of some of the characters in the Wizard of Oz and all of their fears.

The scarecrow was afraid of fire. The tinman was afraid of rusting. The lion was afraid of everything!

The scarecrow did not have a brain. The tinman did not have a heart. The lion did not have courage. We all are a little like each of them at times.

Think about this: 2 Timothy 1:7 shares that God helps us in each of these areas.

The lion felt powerless. ...but God wants to give us power.
The tinman had no heart. ...but God IS love.
The scarecrow didn't have a brain. ...but God wants to help us know what to think. He gives us a sound (peacefully complete) mind.

When you are afraid, you can pray and ask God to help you and fill you with His power, His love, and His thoughts.

Knowing God's Word

2010-10-25T20:38:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday we spent time reviewing what we have learned from God's Word over the past couple of months. We reviewed using all kinds of fun games. Thanks for coming!

It's important to know God's Word. Read these verses to find out why:

Psalm 119:9-11, Matthew 24:35, Psalm 119:105, Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:1-3

Who Is Jesus? My Helper

2010-10-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

Psalm 46:1 says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Jesus understands our troubles and our struggles. Read Hebrews 4:15 tells us that.

Jesus wants to help us through the presence and power of His Holy Spirit. This is why he went away, so He could send us a helper.

Read John 16:5-8. Here is where Jesus says that he would send His Holy Spirit to to help us and to guide us.

Remember, God's plan is for your good. Here are some verses you may read to encourage you this week.

Jeremiah 29:11,
Psalm 54:7,
Psalm 70:5,
Psalm 61:2-4

Jesus - My Eternal Hope

2010-10-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

The power of God resides in, and is evidenced, throughout the life of Jesus. Even in the time of Christ's death, the power of God was shown in a lot of different ways. You can read about some of that amazing stuff in Matthew 27:45-54.

1 John 5:4,5 tells us that Jesus is the winner, and that those who place their whole trust and faith in him will also be winners.

Jesus went through tough stuff, but did not give up. You can know, that even if you have tough times, Jesus is there to help you. You can place your faith, trust and hope in him.

Read Jeremiah 29:11. God is for you!

Jesus - My Healer

2010-10-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

Philippians 4:19 says, "My God shall supply all your need according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

God knows what you need. When you are not feeling well, God knows what you need to be healthy too. He wants to help you with that. Jesus paid the price so you can be healed when you are sick. (Read Isaiah 53:5)

Peter understood that God wants people to be healthy. When he was walking by a crippled man, Peter saw that the man had faith and wanted to be healed. Peter also knew that Jesus had paid the price so that we can be healed. You can read about this happening in Acts 3:1-8.

God wants you to be healthy in body and soul. (See 3 John 2.) So take care of yourself! Put good things into your body, and into your heart and mind. And when you don't feel well, know that Jesus has provided for your healing.

Jesus - My Substitute

2010-09-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

We had an incredible day as our kids participated in our BGMC Bike Day fundraiser. People around the world will be impacted by the work and giving that came together at this special time. Through BGMC, many supplies, equipment, and literature are provided for missionaries to use in helping people. Thanks to all who participated!

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We also took time to talk about Jesus taking our place -- being our substitute -- when it came to paying the price for our sin. (Thank you, Jesus!)

Here are some verses to read about that:

Romans 6:23,
Romans 3:22-26
Galatians 3:13

Because Jesus took our place, sin and death and the penalty for sin have all been taken care of by him, for us. Take time to think about that today, and give praise to God for being your substitute.

Jesus, Our Shepherd

2010-09-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Jesus loves you and cares for you. He provides all of your needs. He wants to guide you and direct you as you walk along your path of life. Psalm 23 tells us about how Jesus cares for us.(Take time to read that today)

Read John 10:1-5 and 11-16 too. It tells us that we are like the sheep of Jesus' flock. We need to listen to his voice and then follow Him!

Take time today to listen to what He has to say to you. You can do that as you read your Bible, pray, and just take some "quiet time" away from other busy noisey things.

Thank him for being your good shepherd! He loves and cares for you.

Who Is Jesus? My Best Friend

2010-09-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

Do U have a BFF?

When Jesus came to earth, he came because he wanted to restore friendship between you and God. He loves you so much! Before you even KNEW him, he KNEW you and LOVED you! Romans 5:8 talks about that. Take a look at that verse. Also, John 15:13.

1 Samuel chapter 20 tells about two best friends - David and Jonathan. They went through a hard time, but still cared deeply for each other. This is a great friendship you can read about. They ended up having to split up...

One thing you can know about Jesus, He wants to be your BFF. Yes, Best Friend FOREVER. And he said that he will never split up!

Hebrews 13:5 records, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."

In Matthew 28:20 Jesus says, "...I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Take time to talk with him and listen to him. Know that he's not going to leave you even when things are hard. He wants to be your BFF.

Jesus - My Example

2010-09-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

Kids look for people to follow. They look up to all different kinds of folks...
...football players,
...singers,
...music groups,
...baseball players,
...NASCAR drivers,
...television stars,
...grandparents,
...dads,
...moms,
...coaches,
...and more.

But, the greatest example you can follow is Jesus. Often, when people ask me what part of the Bible they should read, I tell them to start with the book of Mark. We can learn alot about Jesus life, attitudes, words and actions by reading the books called "the gospels." (Mark is one of them.)

Take some time today, and think about Jesus. What was he like? What should you change in your life and attitude to be more like him? If you pray about that, he will talk to you and help you know too.

God bless you this week!

Falling Down

2010-09-01T12:17:00.001-07:00

Hey there!

Ever fall down and go "boom!"? Ouch! It hurts to fall.

Adam and Eve "fell down" when they chose to do what they wanted instead of obeying God. That's called "sin." And Romans 3:23 says that all of us have done that. We've sinned. We've had wrong attitudes, wrong thoughts, and wrong actions.

The bad news is -- When you or I sin, it causes us to be spiritually separated from God. Ouch! That hurts.

The good news is -- Jesus paid the price for our sin and disobedience so that we can be forgiven, and now have a new relationship with God. That's awesome!

When Jesus paid the price, it wasn't with money, or a checkbook, or a credit card. He used something FAR more valuable. He used His very own blood! People can live without money...but they cannot live without blood. Jesus used his own innocent, precious blood to pay the spiritual price for our sins. But, he did NOT stay dead. He came back to life. And now we can talk to him and ask for forgiveness, and he freely gives it to anyone who sincerely asks.

Romans 10:9,10 says, "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified (made right), and it is with you mouth that you confess and are saved (from the penalty of sin)."

If you have not done that yet, you can pray right there where you are! You don't need to wait until you are at church. God hears you when you pray it and mean it.

You may read more scriptures about Jesus paying for your sins right here:

Matthew 26:28
Romans 8:1,2
Colossians 2:13,14
Hebrews 7:27b
Hebrews 10:10

In My Beginning

2010-08-20T15:20:00.001-07:00

God has ALWAYS had a great love and a great plan for your life!

Psalm 139:3,4 says, "You notice everything I do and everywhere I go. Before I even speak a word, you know what I will say..."

God loves you, created you and has a great plan for your life!

Do you remember Ephesians 3:18? Look it up and be encouraged!

And each time that you see a bird swooping down, remember Luke 12:6,7.

Have a great week with Jesus!

Sword of the Spirit

2010-08-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 4:12 says, "The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit... It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."

God's Word can cut deep into our thoughts and attitudes! Sometimes, when we are tempted to do what is wrong...thinking the wrong thoughts... God's Word can cut right through that temptation to the "heart of the matter."

That's why it's important that we learn what it says in the Bible, God's Word. Once we LEARN it...then we can USE it. But, how do we use it if we have never learned it?

It's like this. A young boy wants to ride his bike to Dairy Queen for ice cream. He's been told that he can have his favorite DQ treat for FREE, but he has to get there in the next 5 minutes. He pulls his bike out of the garage. The problem is this: He has never taken time to learn how to ride a bike!

Sounds silly, doesn't it? It would be silly if someone had a bicycle for years, but never learned to ride it.

Some people are the same way with their Bibles though. They OWN a Bible. But they have never really used it. ....that's sad.

This week, I encourage you to take time to read your Bible. Join Kid's Clubs this Fall. Join Junior BIBLE Quiz. Be a part of our church programs that help you learn the Bible, and take time to read the Bible at home too. It's important!

Here are some verses for you to read:

Psalm 1:1-3
Psalm 119:11
Psalm 119:105
Joshua 1:7,8
2 Timothy 2:15 & 3:14-17

God's Army: Overcoming Temptation

2010-08-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

We are in a spiritual fight. And sometimes that fight is not outside of us, but INSIDE of us. We fight against temptation in our thoughts, our attitudes, our hearts, and our minds.

Liz taught us 1 Corinthians 10:13. It says, "...God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand..."

When you are tempted, the Holy Spirit will be right there with you, reminding you that He will help you to do what is right. Just remember to do what is right, even if you do not FEEL like it. "Do what is right, and the feelings will follow."

Jesus chose to do what was right, even when it was hard. You may read about how Jesus handled temptation in Matthew 4:1-11.

Other great verses to remember are Psalm 37:4 and James 1:14,15. Take some time to read them today!

------Have a great week!--------

See you on August 15 for B.G.M.C. Sunday!

Pirates: A Heroes Adventure - Heroes Do the Right Thing!

2010-08-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

Do what is right and the feelings will follow.
Sometimes we don't feel like doing what is right, but when we do the right thing even when don't want to we soon feel happy and satisfied that we made the right choice. Right choices please God, so we need to know what He thinks and think how He thinks.

True heroes do the right thing, in Daniel chapter 3 we can read about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. They had a choice to make, they could do the wrong thing and worship the statue of the king, or they could do the right thing and only worship God. They made the right choice, even though it meant being thrown in a fiery furnace! Maybe Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn't feel like making the right choice, but they did, making them true heroes. God blessed them for making the right choice, by protecting them and saving them from the fiery furnace. They we thrown in but they did not get bunered, and when they came out they didn't even smell like smoke. God protected them.

So, "do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

Pirates: A Heroes Adventure!

2010-07-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Ohoy there! We have had four fantastic nights of Vacation Bible School with over 500 children attending! We learned about God's plan for each of us to be heroes and how He helps us to do that.

Don't miss Kids Church this next Sunday morning as we do our last lesson from "Pirates: A Heroes Adventure." See you there, mateys!

Good News Shoes

2010-07-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

Ephesians 6: 14,15 "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace."

Shoes are very important, they protect our feet and not only keep them from getting dirty, but also from getting hurt. It is also imported to carry the good news, or the gospel of Jesus in our hearts. The gospel protects us spiritually, very much like our shoes do.

"Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil." Proverbs 4:26, 27

In Rome there used to be spiky pits in the roads covered with leaves to hid them, so that when armies came to attack they would injure their feet and not be able to fight. On the road of our lives sometimes we go through hard times that are hidden so that we could not see that they where coming. This is why it is important to wear your Gospel Shoes! They keep your safe when you go though hard times.

Righteousness

2010-07-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

A man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ. Galatians 2:16

God wants us to have a clean heart, in fact when God created man there was nothing evil or wicked in him at all. But, when Adam and Eve sinned they because unrighteous. Being unrighteous means that you are no longer in right standing with God. This makes our hearts feel guilty and sad. Often times people try to fix there guilt by attempting to cover up the problem. But no matter how hard we try, there is only one way to have a clean heart again. And that way is Jesus. God send his Son Jesus to die for us so that the punishment for our sins would be paid and we would be righteous is God's eyes again. So when we accept what Jesus did for us on the cross we are made right before God.

Fourth of July

2010-07-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

"One nation, under God."

That's what we say in the pledge of allegiance. We understand that our country is here because it started out being led by a group of folks who tried to do what was pleasing to God.

Pastor Keith mentioned a quote that says, "America is great, because America is good. When America ceases (stops) being good, it will stop being great."

Our country needs to continue to do what is good!

James 4:17 says, "Anyone who knows the good he ought to do, but doesn't do it, sins."

Are there good things we could do, and should do, as citizens of the United States of America?

What are some of those things we, as Christians, should do?

Are there things we can do to help take care of our country?

What things should we pray about that will help our country be good and do good?

Be thankful today, for this great country that you may live in! ...and look for ways to do what is good as a Christian and as an American!

The Belt of Truth

2010-06-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

God is good...all the time!

For the next couple of weeks we will be talking about the armor of God. Last sunday we talked about the Belt of Truth. Ephesians 6:14 says, "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist"

We learned that a truth we can live by is that God is good all the time. Is God good just some of the time? Only in the happy times? No! God is good ALL the time! Nahum 1:7 says, "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble." This is the truth that we hold on to, our belt of truth. God is good (all the time!) and will be there for us in the good times and the bad times.

Dinosaur Sunday

2010-06-20T14:47:00.000-07:00

Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." but what about dinosaurs?

Check out Job 40:15-24 and Job 41:1,8,9,12-33. Can you believe it? God talks about dinosaurs in the bible! Job 40 tells us of the mighty Behemoth, and Job 41 talks about the fearsome Leviathan!

Did you know that a dinosaur is a giant lizard? Lizards never stop growing. Before Noah and the big flood, people and animals lived a long time. Noah was 600 years old when he built the ark! Can you imagine how big a 600 year old lizard would be? I'm thinking it would be about the size of a dinosaur.

God of Creation

2010-06-13T13:08:00.001-07:00

Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth."

It's clear that this world didn't just happen by accident! A whole bunch of puzzle pieces didn't just fly up in the air and connect together to make a complete puzzle that we call this world...or this universe! God created the heaven and the earth!

Take time to read Colossians 1:16, 17 right now.

Then read Genesis 1:27.

Because He made us and everything else in this world , Psalm 24:1 is also true! (Read that too!)

You can know that you are SPECIAL! You are VALUABLE! God created you UNIQUELY to be someone special to Him.

You were not not an accident. You didn't just happen by chance...accidentally evolving from a frog or a fish or a monkey!

God has a wonderful plan for your life. You can talk to Him about that (as you pray.) Live in such a way that it shows you belong to the Creator of the universe.

2010-06-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

If you can quote these verses one of the next two Sundays, you will receive a reward in Kid's Church! (We have been working on memorizing them with actions in Kid's Church.)

Proverbs 4:23-27
Above all else, guard your heart
for it is the wellspring of life.
Put away perversity from your mouth.
Keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Let your eyes look straight ahead.
Fix your gaze directly before you.
Make level paths for your feet
and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left.
Keep your foot from evil.

Guard Your Feet

2010-06-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 4:26,27 says "Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."

It is very important to let God guide our feet and the paths that we take. We should not go places where we will end up doing what is wrong. We have two choices, we can either follow the path of righteousness that God has placed before us, or we can move in other, harmful directions away from Him.

In Psalm 23:1-4 we can see that God wants to guide us in the right direction and protect us with His rod and staff.

Colossians 1:10 says, "Walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."

While you are practicing guarding you feet, why not take a walk with your family?

Promotion Sunday!

2010-05-31T11:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday, June 6, is promotion Sunday at the AG Church.

In the Sunday morning adult services, our graduating seniors will be honored. Also, all of our grade school aged kids will officially move up a grade. Kindergartners will be moving into Kids Church as new first graders. Sixth graders may continue to attend Kids Church through the summer as seventh graders.

Congratulations kids! It's been a good school year, and now we're heading into a great summer!

Guard Your Eyes

2010-05-31T11:37:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 4:23-25 Above all else guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth. Keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead. Fix your gaze directly before you.

It helps us to guard our hearts if we will be careful about what we focus on. The things we look at will influence our attitudes, our thoughts, and our spiritual life too!

Colossians 3:2 says, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." The things we think about, ...the things we talk about, ...the things we look at, should be tested by this verse. Does it help us think about good, clean wholesome, eternally-important things? ...or does it make us think about selfish, sinful, temporary earth-bound things?

Philippians 4:8 says, "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things." Usually, the things that we watch and look at are the things we end up thinking about. So what kinds of things are you watching on t.v., or on DVD, or on the computer, or ...?

Hebrews 12:2 tells us something we should focus on. Take a moment and look at that verse!

Have a great week!

Guard Your Tongue

2010-05-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Bible tells us that we should be careful with the words that we speak. We can use them to help people, or to hurt them.

Proverbs 18:12 says, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."

We talked about how Peter used a sword to hurt someone in the garden of Gethsemane. You can read more about that in Luke 22:45-54. In John's listing of this event, he tells us that it was Peter who did this. (John 18).

Just as a person can be hurt with a sword, a person can be hurt by someone's words.

Psalm 19:14 is a prayer. It says, "May the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in your sight, O Lord..."

We need to speak words that honor God. If we will do what Proverbs 4:24 says, we will honor God with our words.

For more information on how important it is to use good words, read James 3:2-12.

Guard Your Heart

2010-05-15T09:59:00.000-07:00

In Luke 5:22 Jesus said to the Pharisees, "Why are you thinking these things in your hearts?" Jesus knew that what a person thinks in one's heart is very very important. That's why the Bible tells us, "Above all else guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (Proverbs 4:23)

Proverbs 23:7 says, "For as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." (KJV) That means, you will become what you think about. If you think about selfish things, you will become selfish. If you think about godly things, you will become godly. If you think mean thoughts, you will become mean. Your actions will follow along with the thoughts you always have.

That's why we pray and ask God to cleanse our hearts and minds. Read the scripture found in Psalm 51:10-15.

God wants to help make our hearts clean...and then we need to do our part and guard what we allow into our hearts and minds!

Here are the words for a great song that we heard in kids church today. It's called, "GO!"

* * * * Go! Gotta Go! Go! Gotta Go! Go! Walk away. * * * * *

Where do I begin when it comes to sin? It’s a tricky little mess to get in.

You think it doesn’t matter then your world begins to shatter

and that’s where Jesus comes in.

How do you deal with the things that are real
that get you down and take joy away?
You look it in the eye and you tell it “bye bye”
‘cause you are strong, so stand up and say.

No! Don’t want it. Not gonna hear it.

No! And I don’t care what you say.

Go! Don’t need it. Not gonna have it.

Go! Just turn your head. Walk away.

Go! Gotta Go!

When you got that funny feeling that sin is not appealing,

But temptation stands in your way.

You go to the Word, repeat what you’ve heard.

This is how you make it one more day.

How do you deal with the things that are real
that get you down and take joy away?
You look it in the eye and you tell it “bye bye”
‘cause you are strong, so stand up and say.

No! Don’t want it. Not gonna hear it.

No! And I don’t care what you say

Go! Don’t need it. Not gonna have it.

Go! Just turn your head. Walk away.

Go! Go! Go! Go! Go! You gotta go!

Talents For the Lord

2010-05-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

God has given everyone different gifts and abilities. But, each person also has the choice to develop their skills! Just because you are not good at something right away, does not mean that you should quit! Maybe you just need to practice.

Usually, no one starts "good" at something. The more you practice, the better you will become.

Read some of these scriptures to find out about different talents that people used in Bible times. They used these talents to honor God and to help others.

Exodus 36:37

Acts 18:3,4

Acts 10:6

Luke 8:1-3

1 Chronicles 15:16

What new talent are you working on?

A friend of mine once said to me, "Before you can be good, you have to be willing to be bad." Many people quit trying right away if they are not good at something. Don't do that! Maybe you have a hidden talent that God will use, if you'll just take the time to practice.

Do your best. Try some different things. Don't give up if you are not good at something right away. And, use your talents to help others and do God's work.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Don't forget to check out http://www.bgmckids.ag.org/ and read the story, "Egypt: The Big Snake." Come next Sunday and tell Miss Renee how big the snake was that stopped people from traveling on the road, and you will receive a prize. (AND, it's B.G.M.C. Sunday.)

Committed to Train!

2010-05-03T06:37:00.000-07:00

The word "train" often means that a person is learning to do what is right, even if he does not feel like it. Sometimes our feelings lead us to do things we should not do -- things that do not honor God and do not honor other people. Sometimes our feelings may even lead us to do things that are BAD for us!

Take a moment and read what Paul has to say about going through training. See 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. Paul is saying that he is going to ignore his feelings at times, and make himself do what is right!

Great athletes have learned that there are times they have to FORCE themselves to ignore their physical pain and just keep on going!

Also read 1 Timothy 4:8. Paul shares that physical training is good --- but there's a certain kind of training that is even MORE important for each and every one of us. What is it?

I know that at times training is not fun. (Hebrews 12:7-11 talks about that.) But, I know that the more I do something, eventually it becomes easier. So, don't give up doing what is right, even if it's hard!

-----------------------------------------------

NEXT SUNDAY IS "TALENT SUNDAY" IN KID'S CHURCH!

Plan to come to kids church on Sunday, May 9th and share a talent! Bring a creation, a craft, or a drawing. Plan to sing a song, share a poem, do a drama, or show a project from school. It's kind of like "show and tell". When you come Sunday morning, check in with Pastor Randy to find out when you may share your talent during the service. It's going to be fun! See you there!

Little Things Can Become Big

2010-04-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

Romans 4:16,17 tells us about Abraham, the father of our faith. God blessed Abraham and Sarah because they trusted God.

Verse 17 tells us that our God is a God who "...calls things that are not, as though they were." That means that even when things are not in existence--they are not there--that God can speak and call them into being. God can make great stuff out of NOTHING!

Read Genesis 1:1-11 and 14-20. Here you will see that God did GREAT stuff with basically nothing!

Later, we read that David was a young guy whom God used to win a great victory. David did not have experience as a warrior, but he stood up and put himself in a place where God could use him. He trusted God to guide him and give him the power to do what needed to be done. You can read about that in 1 Samuel chapter 17. It's awesome how God used David.

In the same way, God will use what little you have to do great things too! You just have to be willing and keep on doing your best.

Remember, God doesn't expect you to be the best, but He does expect you to do YOUR best.

May the Lord bless you and help you as you do your best for Him today!

Prayer Brings Life

2010-04-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

Matthew 6:8-13 records the example that Jesus gave to his disciples for prayer.

It is important that you stay connected with God through prayer. It's like the hose that brings the water to the fresh flowers. Prayer connects us to God and keeps our relationship with him fresh, growing and sweet smelling!

Remember to "give God 5" each day this week!

5 minutes of prayer
5 minutes of Bible reading
5 minutes of praise and worship.

See you soon!

Pastor Randy

I Have Life Even After Death

2010-04-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we talked about how Jesus rose from the dead, and he defeated death for us too!

John 11:25 tells us that Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies."

Read 2 Corinthians 5:1-10. It tells us that after our spirit and soul separate from our body, the REAL part of us continues to live on with Jesus. How cool is that!

Remember: I live in a body. I have a soul. I AM a spirit.

Your body is like a tent...it carries the REAL you around. Someday your tent will wear out...and God will clothe you with a new one.

So, when the earthly body wears out you still will not be done. The real you --the spiritual you--can live on with Jesus!

He Is Alive!

2010-04-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

In John 11:25 it records Jesus saying, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies."

Jesus paid the price for us on the cross. 1 Corinthians 15:54 says, "Death has been swallowed up in victory." Jesus BEAT death!

You can read more about that in John 19:16-18 and 19:38-42 and 20:1-18.

He is risen!