April's Meeting Minutes (April 23rd 2009)

God Bless gentlemen.

To those who couldn’t make it this past weekend, you missed an amazing time in the Word! It was great to have more vocal participation from everyone, you comments and thoughts not only help others in understanding, but they also help you individually vocalize what God is speaking to you. This forces you to formulate the thoughts in your mind, which is a major part in meditating on the Word of God.

And speaking of meditating on God’s Word, congratulations to the men who were able to memorize last month’s scriptures! I did my heart good to hear God’s Word being spoken from the mouths of His people. Paul wrote that “we all, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another” (2 Corinthians 3:18) If we would be changed into Christ likeness we must steadily see Him. This happens in the Word. “The Lord revealed Himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the Word of the Lord” (1 Samuel 3:21). Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus steadier and clearer.

A great question was brought up Saturday about the word “precepts”. I wanted to expand on my answer. Precepts are defined in scripture as statues, principles, or doctrines. The Hebrew word for precepts means to set as an overseer, or to put in charge of – guidelines. Similar to the list of instructions (guidelines) parents would give a babysitter. Think of the painted lines on a two lane highway. They are “guidelines” to keep you moving safely on the highway. Move to the right and you end up in a ditch, move to the left and you end up meeting a Mac Truck @ 80 mph! But inside the “guidelines” all is well. Though the highway lines are “restrictions” and “limitations” they are designed for your benefit! The same with the Word of God. That’s why David says, “I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.” Only inside the “guidelines” is freedom. Outside the guidelines is death and destruction (definitely NOT freedom). By staying within the “precepts” of God, we can move through this life with freedom.
Thanks to Hubert for the great session on finances. There were sooo many questions and not enough time. Hopefully in the future we can set up something. For those who missed it, we’ll try to get you the info.

I’m praying for you guys everyday, literally. May God strengthen you as you move through this life!

Don’t forget next month’s verses:

Romans 12:1,2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. 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.

God Bless!!!