JUNE 2023
It’s been a year since we’ve posted anything and there’s been a reason. Pastor has been through a lot of physical challenges beginning mostly from June 7, 2022. He is doing OK but he fell down a flight of stairs in the church while working and destroyed his rotator cuff which is not repairable except by shoulder reversal surgery.
After much prayer and requesting the Lord to heal him completely, it is evident that God has brought healing to him, but it has not been a complete healing for whatever purposes God has in his life at this time.
At the time of this writing, June 5, 2023, he has almost complete range of motion even without the surgery and is in minimal pain a year later. We both feel that this in itself is a miracle and an answer to prayer. The surgeon was actually thrilled with his progress and is in agreeance to wait on the surgery. He is a world renowned surgeon in Tampa known for perfecting the shoulder reversal procedure. He tells us that even with the surgery there is an almost 90% guarantee of no pain, and the range of motion would be limited even with the reversal…But after seeing the improvements, (that God did), his current range of motion and ability to function, he has advised against the reversal.
So without the surgery, he now has more complete range of motion, with minimal pain at night than if he had the surgery. Limitations? just no strength in his overhead ‘working’ mode. IOW, he can reach up to replace a fluorescent light bulb but can’t hold it up – no strength. So we assist him by holding up his arm!!! He’s also had much problems with his teeth and is deciding whether to just live with the few that are left or go through upper teeth removal and denture or implants. We ask you to be praying for him.
Even with these issues God is still working mightily through him and even more so. His energy and determination to finish his course remain undiminished. His commitment is as strong as ever and his sermons are amazing, because of the empowerment of the Holy Ghost, ministering to those who have an ear to hear. To God be the Glory for great things He has done! Never underestimate the power of God in your life when you release and relinquish and entrust your circumstances to Him. In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for your life. Trust Him. Serve Him no matter what comes, and remember without FAITH it is IMPOSSIBLE to please Him.
Love you Pastor! Keep up the great work. Through Christ we CAN.
JUNE 2022 – the month of testings from here on!
MAY 2022
As we think about our Mother’s and wives this month in a special way, let’s do our best to honor all our ladies and daughters whether they are Moms or not – all year round. God made woman from the male, but He took a rib from Adam’s side to work together with him, not for him to be a dictator over her, and she, not to compete with him. Each has their own specific role in the relationship. Both are needed and one cannot do both. The Man and Wife complete each other in the relationship. He also made the woman to be a helper to him as well as the nurturer for the children and in so doing, honor her husband.
If men in general are wise, they will follow the instruction in Ephesians to love their wives as Christ loved the church, then our ladies and daughters will gladly follow our leadership.
In that same passage (Ephesians 5:14-33), before Paul talks about the husband/wife relationship, he tells us to first be subject to one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. Then he goes on to share the best way for a family unit to work – with the husband as the lead/head and the wife as the helper/nurturer. She is not beneath his feet for him to trample on like a doormat. And she is not to usurp his authority in the home as head. Remember, two heads = a monster! And remember ladies, the husband has the most accountability in this relationship to the Lord. The Lord holds him accountable for the overall health of the home (family). That’s one reason why he is the head. The buck stops there. My wife says she is glad for that. It sure takes the pressure off of her.
Paul concluded his passage about the family unit by saying that this dissertation is a ‘mystery’! because he was speaking ‘concerning Christ and the Church’. Some may say that because he said this, that he was not really telling the wives to submit to or obey their husbands…that this was just a picture story to explain the connection to Christ and the Church. BUT…Paul concludes by saying “NEVERTHELESS…see that the husband love his wife and let the wife see that she reverence her husband. The way I see it is that he was meaning this: ‘Nevertheless…even though I’m trying to get you to see the love Christ has for the Church in an earthly way that you might understand by likening the relationship to the husband and wife…overall I still admonish you to love your wives and respect your husbands.’ In the scriptures we find that Christ is the husbandman and the Church is the bride. It is a parallel.
Let’s refresh ourselves with exactly what the word of God says regarding these things:
Ephesians 5:14-33
First of all Paul tells the believer to WAKE UP out of our sleep, out of our apathy and realize there is more to our earthly life than what meets the eye. Then he tells us how we should be walking and behaving in our Christian walk with one another, specifically between husband and wife:
14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
Then he tells us we are to redeem the time (what life we have left to live on earth) because the days are certainly evil around us and getting worse…so we’re not to be consumed or ‘filled’ with deeds of the flesh or controlled by impairing substances that would hinder our conscience and walk.
16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
So how are we to do this? By keeping our minds on biblical principles that we have been taught and as we do this in the form of musical praise, we are to do this as unto the Lord – making sure we give thanks for all things (good or bad) to the Lord Jesus and God the Father.
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
Now here we go…we are to submit to one another in the fear of God!
21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
More specifically, wives are to submit to their own husbands and do this in such a way that if the Lord were standing before you, you would willingly and completely submit to Him. Submit to your husbands in this same way…
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
Now he speaks to the husbands – to love and cherish your wives exactly how Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for it! A sacrificial love for our wives.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
So finally, here it is in a nutshell. The whole passage explained with a little extra mileage in verse 33!
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
God bless you!
APRIL 2022
This has been a fast-paced month. We are praising God for His love and mercy toward each and every one of us. We had a wonderful Resurrection Sunday and the spirit among us was great. If you have not yet read the account of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, we would like to share Luke’s account here:
LUKE, Chapter 24
“24 1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.2 And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.3 And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.4 And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.8 And they remembered his words,9 And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.10 It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.11 And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs.14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened.15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre;23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.29 But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,34 Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.35 And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.36 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.43 And he took it, and did eat before them.44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.48 And ye are witnesses of these things.49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.50 And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.51 And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:53 And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.” kjv
MARCH 2022
Ephesians 3:6-21 “6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ 5 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” kjv
FEBRUARY 2022
February is the month of love we all like to say. It’s a busy month here as we are fast approaching the holiest time of the year, that being Palm and Resurrection Sunday (April 10 & 17, 2022.) We are so thankful that up to this point we have managed to survive the beginning of this New Year. Many are wondering how we escaped the deadly virus thus far, and we do not forget those who have been devastated by the loss of friends, co-workers and loved ones from it. For those who have survived, most will agree that it is only by God’s grace and mercy we have done so and we are grateful that we have been spared those miseries.
As we go forward into 2022 we wonder how many other problems will crop up. We know in these last days that there will be strife and divisions among each other…among friends, spouses, children and people groups. It is the wise and alert Believer who understands this and walks around trouble, not headlong into it. Don’t worry. When we need to take a stand about God’s principles and God’s commands we will do so! But many of the problems that will be faced in the coming year and beyond will be problems created because of the fallen nature of man – those who have chosen to set themselves above God’s order of things. You need to know the difference of when to pass over a fault or take a stand against evil. Ask God for wisdom. He will provide it as He says He will.
There’s also been background noise telling us to beware of troubles brewing on the horizon creating fear in many hearts. We are never to fear as children of God, but we are to be anchored in God’s unchanging promises. There are warnings about economic changes and hardships, climatic weather abnormalities, food and product shortages, persecution and loss of rights for believers and others as well, divisions and estrangement in families, friendships, marriages and churches, continued harassment from governmental policies, etc….but no matter, we are not to be deceived child of God.
And who does the deceiving? It is the Devil himself. Satan is not only the Great Deceiver, but he is also the Great Divider of the brethren, the Great Destroyer of friendships, dreams, plans and hopes. Jesus on the other hand is the Great Restorer of ALL things. We choose Jesus. And if we claim to be children, then we should take on the characteristics of our Father. We need to be in the business of restoring one another when and if it is at all possible. When it is not possible, God’s grace will be sufficient to us in that day. And since the Devil roams about seeking who he can destroy, wouldn’t it be wise to be aware of his tricks and schemes? You can be victorious over him, but only if you stay connected to His word and remain obedient in all known areas of our lives. When you mess up, own it. Ask forgiveness. Make restitution if need be. Become the Peacemaker. Those who are truly spiritual will be in the business of restoring one another when it is possible.
We know the Lord is ultimately in control of each and every circumstance we face. We must remember that. He promised He would see us through every difficulty. I’m amazed at some who would blame the Lord for allowing the troubles. Yet, this is a part of life. Why be angry at the only ONE who WILL help you navigate through the troubles? It is only in heaven my friend that these earthly sorrows will be erased. We are not in Heaven yet. We are here in a fallen world which will soon be made whole and well again. But not yet. SOON…
Face these trials with courage, with complete unswerving faith in Him. Make your actions and decisions based on the truth that we as believers will ALL stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ and give an account of everything we have done in the flesh while here on earth. Not for salvation you understand, but for rewards that we will cast at Jesus’ feet – the only One Worthy. We are not saved by works or deeds, but by our faith in Jesus Christ. When facing difficult things and decisions, don’t cave in to earthly solutions. Seek the Lord and pray. He will give you direction. And He will give you the grace and strength needed to complete the purpose for which you were created.
Ultimately we know that life here on earth will come to a close for each and every one of us. Believers in Christ and unbelievers alike will face the time when we will cease to exist here on earth. That final breath. The Word of God tells us we are to be ready at any moment to meet the Lord whether in physical death or at the Rapture of the Church which is imminent. Watch and be ready.
At the moment of death, the believer will be in the presence of the Lord God in heaven and will stand and give an account of himself at the Judgment Seat of Christ. It will be a time of proving works that were done for the Lord after we were born again. Even if you have no works to show…you are safe in God’s hands at death. Just no rewards. But nonetheless safe because of your faith in Jesus. Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9-13
Now the unbeliever will not face the Judgment Seat of Christ as this is only for the born again Christian. But the unbeliever ALSO WILL stand before God at another judgment, The Great White Throne Judgment. This is a time where those who have rejected Christ as their Savior will be shown their fate, which will be everlasting punishment in the Lake of Fire. This originally was prepared only for Satan and his angels, not for people. Did you know that? You don’t have to go there. It will not be a time of proving your works and deeds as it was for the believer at the Judgment Seat of Christ…but it will be a time of exposing those fleshly deeds for what they are: An attempt to bypass Christ’s sacrificial gift of eternal life, by endeavoring to make our own way to God. Some really think they are ‘all that’! It’s an attempt to use our own so called righteousness to save us instead of having Christ’s righteousness imputed to us when we receive Him by faith. Friend it is not the deeds and works of the flesh that will keep you from entrance to heaven, but only the willful rejection of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Yes, it’s just that important. You MUST receive Christ now while there is yet time to do so. No one is promised another day nor another moment. Heaven is Real. Hell is Hot. Eternity is Long. JESUS CHRIST MAKES THE DIFFERENCE!
And so, that brings us back to our first paragraph above. February is looked at by many as the month of love. There is no better time to reflect on God’s true love for each and every one of us than right now.
God tells us in His word that herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he first loved us and gave himself for us to be the propitiation, the covering – the atonement for our sins. God sent his son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. He is not willing that any should perish but that all come to repentance. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.
If you have not done so, please bow your head and heart before Him. Ask Him to forgive you and to save you. Confess with your mouth that He is the Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead. If you will do this the Lord promises you the gift of eternal life through His Son’s sacrifice and love for you when he died on the cross and rose again the third day. Romans 10:9-13
Let us know
JANUARY 2022
Have a safe and Happy New Year’s Eve. Don’t forget to include God in your plans and desires this year. Does He come first in your choices? In your thoughts?
DECEMBER 2021
This is the time of year filled with all kinds of activity, memories and dreams.
While everyone is out putting up holiday lights and planning festivities throughout the month of December, I trust and pray that we will remember what this time of year truly represents. The whole reason we celebrate is because of Jesus’ birth – Emmanuel, God with us.
Even though other countries such as Australia, Austria, Canada, New Zealand and several parts of the United States are suffering from totalitarian governments, and even though pestilence and disease has taken some of our loved ones and friends from us, we truly know that God is still in control in an otherwise out of control world.
This is the time that we as believers in Jesus Christ must take every last opportunity to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with a world that has lost hope. For if one has made his peace with God through his faith in Jesus Christ, even though he perish he will find ultimate peace with God in heaven. Saints – I just can’t begin to tell you how close I feel we are to the coming of the Lord Jesus as He promised – and how much closer the Rapture of the Church!
With our last breath and with each stroke of our pen we will proclaim the love of Jesus Christ. How He came to live among us being born of a virgin and lived a perfect, sinless life. He was God in the flesh. Then wicked men the scripture says, took our precious Lord and arrested Him unfairly-they lied about Him and made up false claims. Talk about fake media. They beat Him and tortured Him until He was unrecognizable as a man. He was humiliated before all men and then crucified on a cross on Mount Calvary. Taken from the cross and buried in a borrowed tomb, on the third day He rose from the dead! He showed Himself alive to His disciples and to many people before He lifted off the earth at His ascension. The angels that were present told His disciples who were beholding this grand sight “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11 kjv)
So let’s all be busy about the Master’s business now. There is no time for fussing and fighting among the brethren or in our families. Don’t get distracted from the main thing. Remember the Devil has planted Tares in the field – our churches – along with the Wheat that God has redeemed. Don’t let these tares steal your zeal, urgency and joy! We need to be ‘done with lesser things’. Our faith is not about them or us – it’s about leading people to Christ before it’s too late. One way or the other, time is almost up for us all. Only what you do for Christ will last. That little baby born in a manger is the God of the universe and He will demand from those who claim to know Him their very best.
The only gift that will please Jesus this Christmas for His birthday is YOU!
NOVEMBER 2021
Pastor Ragsdale and Carol are wishing you all a blessed Thanksgiving time with your friends and families. We trust the Lord will continue pouring out His blessings upon us as we continue to turn away from our own desires and plans and turn to Him. On Thanksgiving Day, Remember Jesus Christ!
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect over the last year (and longer of course), about God’s goodness and mercies to us. We will never know how much we have been spared.
Admonishments for the Season?
*Love the Lord your God with all your Soul, Mind and Strength – and your neighbor as yourself.
*Worship Him in Psalms and Spiritual Songs.
*Pray without ceasing. Pray for His kingdom to come here on earth as it is in heaven.
*Give of yourselves in your Presence in Church and of your Firstfruits to God.
*Keep watching for the Rapture and Return of our Lord and Savior.
*Never, Never, Never give up on God’s Promises.
*Help those who are in need.
*Do good to your enemies. But don’t forget to stand up for what is right. You can still take an outspoken stand while praying for those who are against you and the Cross of Christ. We are to be salt and light, reproving the works of darkness.
*Remember whose you are. Who you belong to – stop fearing man or disease.
*Lastly, remember who will win this battle. We may lose some of the smaller scrimmages, But God WINS THE VICTORY OVER DEATH, HELL & THE GRAVE. The ultimate battle with be Death. And if we are born again, we already have victory even over death!
*We have God’s unspeakable gift – eternal life because of Jesus, His Son!
2 Corinthians 9:14 “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”
What is that unspeakable gift?
Isaiah 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The
Prince of Peace.”
– Pastor Ragsdale
OCTOBER 2021
We’re gearing up for another great time of the year and a busy one for us here at West Marion Baptist. But even with the hopeful and wonderful anticipation of looking forward to joyous times, you can be sure that ‘ol Split Foot himself is up to his no good doings. But Jesus and the power He enables us with, is greater than he. Remember that.
Now as if the difficulties that we have already gone through were not enough, we will still experience the pain and sadness from losing people in our midst. Some are gone from us due to death and illness. Some due to other hardships. And still others have left not being able to bear up under sound Bible doctrine. Some cannot bear up under reproof, correction and exhortation. We must try to remember that He must Increase and we must decrease.
A lot of these changes are to be expected especially in Bible teaching, preaching churches. We are not only to be encouraged by the Word of God, but it must be a balanced composition. Along with the encouragement, there should be a challenge given. If it is received in our hearts, in the end the challenge and the edification will bring encouragement. When we find ourselves convicted of sin, it is our duty to humble ourselves, turn away from our pride and ask forgiveness – making it right with others if need be.
As far as getting along with others in the church family, the best thing that will help with this is to remember we are supposed to be the example of the True Family of God here on earth. Now in this family, (make sure you indeed are part of God’s family…that you have been born again from above) we learn to work together, get along with one another and – here is a really huge one – respect one another. More importantly, we need to learn to forgive one another and forgive from the heart. Not just mental assent. From the heart.
You’ve heard it told, the family that prays together stays together. Or something like that. But it is true. If you learn to forgive one another, realizing that whatever offense you feel has been perpetrated against you, whether it’s an offense you have committed against someone else or whether it’s an offense they have committed against you…the offense WE have committed against our Lord is far greater. And even with all the sadness Jesus must feel when we don’t love Him enough to love and forgive one another….He is still willing to forgive us – and has promised to forgive us completely and eternally for any and every offense we could ever do.
So my question to you is this..Can you not do the same for someone else? Can you not forgive? If you can, it proves you are a child of God. Because only the Holy Spirit dwelling within you gives you the capability to forgive. We can’t do this on our own. It is a divine quality that the Lord imparts to us when we are born again though the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. But if you cannot or will not forgive – I believe that it proves you are NOT His Child! Especially if there is no discipline in your life as a result of disobedience to forgive. This forgiving one another is not really an option. “And forgive us our debts (trespasses) as we forgive our debtors (trespassers).” This is a command. But you must be born again in order to be able to have this inner man’s ability given by the Holy Spirit that enables you to actually and completely forgive someone. And to have the many other characteristics of our Faithful God.
What an awesome God we have! He loves us, forgives us, prepares us, and receives us. So the encouragement here is this. We are to forgive others. When you forgive others, you demonstrate true humility and that you are truly a Child of God. And if you truly forgive one another, then you will treat them in the same way you treated them before the offense was taken.
Bottom line? Forgive and you will be forgiven. Jesus Himself said if you will forgive others, then He would forgive you. If you don’t forgive others, from the heart, then you will NOT be forgiven (Matthew 6:12-18). Another important passage is this one. God Himself will trouble those that trouble you.
2 Thessalonians 1:6 “Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;” Now if you’re the one doing the troubling or unforgiving, you may want to think again! Easier to just forgive people. Indeed.
This last passage is important to consider, also from Matthew 18.
Matthew 18:31-35 “31So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 32Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: 33Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 34And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. 35So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.“
And what about all those prayers you are praying for others? Forget it. It’s not going to be answered from your prayers. Why? Because sin hides God’s face from us (Isaiah 59:2). Failing to forgive is in fact, sin. Oh the prayer may be answered ultimately from a true saint’s prayers who doesn’t hold grudges, but not from your prayers. He’s very clear about requirements for answered prayer. The key word here is righteous – having no unconfessed sin; doing rightly! James 5:16 “16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.“
Often we find that many many believers are truly still infants in their faith. They have grown so little, that when a trial or disagreement pops up, they resort back to their actions and thinking just as they did before their conversion to Christ. It is a shame – and they are the poorer for it.
If you find yourself in a church where everything is always going well, you might want to enjoy it while you can! The Devil is out to devour any good thing, disrupting and destroying our lives. If it’s not enough to attack us with illness like the past year, then he attacks by destroying families and businesses and even churches. You must be strong to endure this fight that we are in. You must put on the whole armor of God to be able to withstand the wiles and the tricks of the Devil. This is the meat for the true Believer in Jesus Christ. You must be in the Word daily. Let this mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus.
In closing, we are praying that health and activities will once again be enjoyed by all. We know there are many who have had a very difficult time with illness from the virus and many are in quite a dilemma regarding the shots. Jobs and livelihood are in question and many dreams are being destroyed – All across this entire earth. Not just here in the United States.
We pray for our Redeemer to split the Eastern Sky! and we long to hear our Savior shout “COME UP HITHER.” So cheer up! These trials on earth will pass and we shall be with Him forevermore. “He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Even so, come Lord, Jesus.” (Rev. 22:20)
Philippians 2:5-11 “5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” kjv
MARCH/APRIL 2021
Spring is certainly in the air. All creation is waiting and groaning for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and while we await His return and soon Rapture of the Church, we are to be about the Master’s business.
In this age of Cancel Culture and general population unrest, we as Believers in Christ are sometimes confused as to what we are supposed to be doing until either the Lord’s return for His Church or our time on earth is finished.
Some are busy worrying and fearful about every move they make. TO MASK or NOT TO MASK? That is one of the questions! TO VAX OR NOT TO VAX? Another troubling question.
Some are trusting in the News Shows and the WHO and the EU… (that rhymes:)) Everyone is trying to find their place in this new age – this so called “NEW NORMAL” we find ourselves in. Where do we fit in? How will we deal with all of the changes going forward?
Some have been out of church so long that it doesn’t bother them. They’ve adjusted and not in a good way. You can’t forsake yourself the gathering together as the manner of some is. That’s not a preference, or a ‘civic duty’ question… it is a command from God Himself.
Hebrews 10:24-27 “24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. 26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.” kjv
Should we be involved in our communities and churches and schools? Should we be involved Politically and Educationally, Spiritually and Physically? Many are involved in all these things and we are grateful they are keeping everyone informed of the goings on in our nation.
But what is the Christian to be doing specifically? What about you?
Praying? Certainly. Trusting God? It goes without question. Keeping up and being aware of what is going on in the political scene? Yes to that!
But there is something more. I suppose the biggest thing is this. Keeping the main thing the main thing. Don’t let your surrounding situations cloud your expectation and hope in Jesus Christ and His Return and His Promises! He will do what He said He is going to do. So what is the “Main Thing” we are do be busy about doing – NO MATTER WHAT?
If you’ve been in a Bible-believing church for any length of time, you will know the answer to this. The Main Thing is to be an Announcer of the Good News, that Jesus died to save sinners. And this can be carried out in many ways.
*Gospel tracks – give them out to everyone, everywhere
*Speaking up for righteousness’ sake when your voice may be the only voice that will do so
*Utilize every means in your power-using your capabilities and talents and treasures to further the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
And as a further help to us all… KEEP FEAR OUT OF YOUR THOUGHT PROCESS! Fear is the complete absence of Faith. You cannot have FAITH in GOD and FEAR of MAN together at the same time. You must choose to Trust in the Lord no matter what is coming. So put on your Gospel Shoes, Take up the Shield of Faith and the Helmet of Salvation…Gird up your lions with the TRUTH (of His Word) and Preach and Teach the Gospel of Peace!! Let everyone know there can be the sweet Peace with God through faith and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior.
(John 3:16-18; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 5:8, 12; 3:23; 6:23; 10:9-13)
Why should we be concerned about sharing the Gospel of Christ? Because ALL of the people that we see everyday will die. Either they are dying of a disease or virus – or they will die in an accident or God forbid, even worse.
It matters not when they will die exactly, but will they be ready to meet the Lord when they do? Will they be assured of that beautiful home in Heaven? And to live forever eternally with the only One who loved us and gave Himself for us? We say we love our families and friends, but have we reached out to them, risking possible disapproval or rejection, and shared Christ?
Make your life count for today. Get back to the business at hand. Fun times can wait. But the soul of a man – his time is fleeting. Be done with the lessor things of this world, caught in the trappings of fear and uncertainty and CLING TO and POINT others to The Way, The Truth and The Life…Jesus Christ.
John 14:1-6 “1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. 5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” kjv
Revelation 22:12, 20-21 “12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” kjv
– Pastor Ragsdale
FEBRUARY 2021
While we wait for His return, we will remember these words…
1Thessalonians Chapter 4
4:1 Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.
2 For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.
3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
5 Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:
6 That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.
8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit.
9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.
10 And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;
11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.
13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
KJV
JANUARY 2021
January 21, 2021
As we can see, there will be much to pray about in the coming months. Fight the good fight of faith. Holding up the standard… Pray for all men everywhere that they might be saved. Pray for justice to be done…and also mercy given to all who humble themselves before the Lord. Pray for your leaders, whether in government, the home, or the church. Ask the Lord what He would have you to do to further the Gospel of Jesus Christ where you live. Pray for courage, boldness and freedom to proclaim the truths of God. All things are God’s and all things belong to Him. He reigns supreme and would have all men come to repentance. Keep your heart with all diligence. Don’t lose hope – trust God’s plan.
January 05, 2021
Today is reckoning day – please be in much prayer as the voting continues and the strategy continues to maintain the White House. We are all in much prayer. Pray also for the ones who are risking their very lives and their families/friends lives by standing up and proclaiming truth. Pray for our enemies. Pray that the Lord will be victorious over the evil one. Pray for increased strength for other believers to stand strong amidst the darkness that prevails in our land.
Matthew 6:9-13 kjv
“Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”
– Pastor Ragsdale
DECEMBER 2020
Dear Fellow Believers and Citizens!
Well by God’s grace we have made it into December 2020. Known for a time of giving and celebration, it has become for some a very difficult time, having suffered the loss of loved ones and friends, others suffering isolation from their loved ones in their times of deepest need… how cruel these people have been… with some facing religious persecution and still others dealing with C19 and resulting illnesses.
As Christians and citizens, we have been lied to in regard to the severity of the C19 virus and certain individuals and groups in our government that have hijacked the democrat party (the new Democrat Socialist Communist Party of America) have manipulated this pandemic for a future sinister plot some have referred to as “The Great Reset”. If you don’t know what this is about, what it involves and the effects it will have on our lives, we encourage you to google it and educate yourself on this.
While we ARE PRAISING God for our great governor of Florida, the honorable Governor Ron DeSantis, who has very carefully maneuvered our state through the complexities of this pandemic and yet still retained our individual and collective freedoms, we acknowledge there are many who are continuing to experience the loss of their first amendment rights including the closing of their churches in California, New York, etc., as well as their freedom of speech on social media platforms from Big Tech and even forbidding meeting in their homes for upcoming festivities with family.
Just yesterday (12/07/20) Dr. Fauci said he felt that no one should participate in holiday family gatherings this Christmas for ‘fear’ of increased cases of C19.
A church in Manitoba, Canada, was barricaded by the police while they were trying to hold drive in services. It was mentioned that ‘since they are already airing their church services on radio and on online we see no reason they need to meet (gather) in public with these drive in services.’ Up to this point, as of December 7, 2020, fines have been around $200,000 for the church parishioners and pastor. A judge has ruled against them. Folks, these people were willing to stay in their cars, with the windows rolled up and they were refused. This is a prelude to what is coming next here in the US. You can find the article at http:www.christianpost.com and elsewhere on the web.
For others, many Patriots are laying aside their own time of celebrations to DEFEND our nation, DEFEND our way of life, and DEFEND OUR VERY FREEDOM. Coming forward to give their sworn testimonies against the treasonous voting fraud committed here in the US on November 3, has been a defining moment for those with the courage to SPEAK OUT. Their lives have been threatened, properties have been damaged, families endangered, livelihoods destroyed and voices silenced in the public arena. We must continue praying for all of these affected as well as President Trump, his family, and his legal advisors during this time.
As true Patriots, we MUST continue to lift high the banner of our LORD Jesus Christ
– not only in our hearts and daily exchanges with people around us and
– in our homes as we live out the grace of God in our lives to those we love dearest,
– but also in our churches as we minister the love of God to those within the four walls of the church and to those who are without
But friends, if Biden gets in, you can be sure that the persecution of the church has just began… not only here in the US, but world-wide persecution will be on a heightened level. Watching governors Newsom and Cuomo and some of the mayors as well, we are seeing a frightening pattern of men and women so deluded and emboldened in their thinking as to have no regard for our great country, the men and women who have sacrificed their very lives, and our cherished God-given constitutional rights here in the United States of America.
As Christians we know that conditions here at home and abroad will indeed wax worse and worse as the Lord reminded us in 2 Timothy 3:13-17, which is a precursor to His 2nd Return and prior to that, the Rapture of His Church in 1Thessalonians 4:16-18. And yes, while we are to be about the Father’s business, it does not dissolve our responsibility to do what is right. To take a visible and vocal stand against evil in all aspects as stated in 2 Timothy 3.
Unfortunately for many Christians though, the thought of entering the political arena has not really captured their imagination. I am simply amazed at those in MY generation and those also in our children’s generation seemingly have a lack of concern for public involvement in the struggles our nation is facing right now. It’s like they have stuck their heads in the sand and are going about business as usual…living in their perfect world they have created for themselves, with their perfect lives and families all the while failing to see the danger that lies ahead for us all and what it will mean for future generations.
WE are the generation(s) that our forefather’s were depending on to carry the torch of Freedom. This is what they fought and bled and died for.
We find many in spiritual leadership today, our pastors and others, who are neglecting a perfect opportunity through social media outlets to voice their support for this President and to cry out against the voting fraud that has taken place in this past election. Why is that? Some used the argument that we have been instructed from God’s Word to obey those who have the rule over us in government…and to just trust God for the outcome.
And just so it is stated clearly, we have and do follow and obey our civil laws… But when the government tells us we can’t preach in Jesus’ Name, we can’t sing His praises, we can’t assemble and worship collectively as we have been commanded to do in Hebrews 10:25, then we have a mandate from God Almighty Himself that tells us ‘we ought to obey God rather than man.’ Acts 5:29.
While we DO trust God, we have been at the very same time instructed to CONTEND for the faith in Jude 3 …but if we lose the PLATFORM that affords us the ability to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with those around us, we then LOSE the ability to affect our culture, and thus, in essence we have FAILED to follow the command of our Lord in obeying the Great Commission in Matthew 28. Pastor, I’m talking to you. I’m shouting really.
Social media, which is the only way we have at the present to voice our views publicly has already taken its toll. Many of our posts and the posts of other conservatives (even the President) have been systematically deleted and/or flagged or ‘fact checked’.
The reality is this.. in MANY states and counties, people are being forbidden to speak out in fear of being silenced completely. As I mentioned earlier, their lives have been threatened, property vandalized. Jobs lost. Families endangered. On December 4, 2020, a young 20 year old aide for a Republican Senator who will be in the run-off elections for Georgia was killed in his car. Witnesses said it just exploded and caught several cars around him on fire. Doesn’t sound like an accident.
I would like to say that if you have an opportunity to speak out NOW against the erosion of our first amendment – the Freedom of exercising our religion, the Freedom of Speech, the Freedom to peaceably assemble and to petition a Government who will not just shut you down without listening – if you have an opportunity to fight against BIG TECH but lack the courage, then ask God to help you and and give you the courage and resolve you will need to do so.
First Amendment – Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
GOD gave us THIS country – and yes, there have been times we have had to fight for our freedom. Make no mistake about it, this battle for FREEDOM will continue to be a threat as enemies, foreign and domestic, will continue to whittle down our resolve enslaving us and our children’s children.
The time is NOW TO SPEAK UP AND DEFEND OUR COUNTRY AND OUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AS AMERICAN CITIZENS. GOD HELP US.
2 Chronicles 7:14 “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” kjv
– Pastor Ragsdale
NOVEMBER 12, 2020
STEP UP
He tried to tell us. President Trump tried to let everyone know that the Presidential election would be in jeopardy this year with the mail in votes and he was correct. Do whatever you can to help in this endeavor as they are trying to recount the votes in the battleground states. Continue being faithful and in much prayer as the witnesses come forward to give their sworn testimonies of voting irregularities. Do a google search and see what is in store for us if Biden usurps this position that President Trump rightfully won. Search out Biden’s ‘First 100 Days’ plan. He will be undoing just about everything that President Trump was able to put in place. He will probably be kneeling and kissing our enemies hands again as Obama did. What a national embarrassment.
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020
TIME TO EARNESTLY PRAY
In just 40 days from today (September 24, 2020) we will once again have an opportunity to decide which man will be best suited for the job of President of the United States. President Donald Trump or Former Vice President Joe Biden.
I believe your decision will be based on the Word of God and God’s principles – or based on your own thoughts and your own human principles. And by the way, we are not voting for a preacher. We are voting for a man. Don’t ever expect divinity from humanity. It will never happen. But you can vote for someone with whom God is working through. And PRAY for him daily as we have been instructed to do.
Now most of us are already sure of who we are going to vote for. We don’t need prodding, convincing or begging to choose a certain side. We’ve already made up our minds! So what are we to do until November 3, 2020?
Some are already way ahead of me on this. It’s always been time to pray for our country and our leaders, but now dear Saint of God, it’s time to fast and pray and be a light in such a dark time as this. Speak out, share the truth, don’t fear their faces. We are certainly up against high stakes at this point in history. Never has there been such a sense of urgency as with this election on November 3, 2020.
We believe the outcome of this election will determine the path to either a completely socialist country (a country we will not recognize) or a country where we can continue being a free nation.
For those who are not sure who to vote for, or just voting the democratic ticket because mom and grandma belonged to it… after this election, with what you are already seeing take place in the democratic states…do you think that the principles on the left will bring our nation more honor and more nobleness or less?
Will we retain our religious freedoms if the left wins? Will the child in the womb be more protected? I will remind us all that the Lord said I knew you when you were in your mother’s womb, and the baby Elisabeth was carrying… when she met Mary, who was also with child, her baby (John the Baptist) leaped in her womb knowing that the Lord was present in Mary’s womb. Folks, these are real lives you are dealing with. Not just blobs of tissue.
Will the Church of the Living God be able to worship and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ without persecution?
If you have been privileged to be able to read many of the articles and to have seen the videos depicting what is already going on around us in the democratic states, you would know that what I am saying is true.
Our battle is fierce. Not only because of the people who are propagating these ideas, but we are wrestling against forces that are unseen in the spiritual realm. And these forces are ultimately wanting to enslave all men. Small and Great, Mighty, and Weak, Colorful or Colorless. Religious or Born Again. Whatever your affiliation in this life – whatever career you have chosen…the main true goal of this next election will be the enslavement not only of men and women, but of the souls of all men and women.
You ask why would I say that? Because everything that is being done and pushed by the extreme left, is being set in motion not only by visible men, but by demonic forces that are in the unseen world. It is a war in the heavenlies brought to earth.
We know that we will ultimately win this war, but as Christians, we have been instructed by our Lord to take up our cross and follow Him. He said we are to reprove the deeds of darkness and to be Light and Salt. He never said it would be easy to do, but that He would empower us and equip us to do His will here on earth.
The demonic goal has always been the same…To SILENCE THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD.
And they may succeed temporarily if enough Christians and just good people do not vote biblically. If they do win, you won’t like it. And you will wish for the day that you would have done more to promote Christian values and principles – the truth that brings real Freedom to all.
Time to Fast and Pray dear child of God
AUGUST 27, 2020
TIME TO SPEAK OUT
As another election cycle is drawing to a conclusion, we just wanted to help those who are undecided in their voting selections. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind when making these important life altering decisions.
And for Pastors who are not sure how to engage in this narrative with their congregations, may we share with you what another pastor shared with his congregation. This can be a starting point or used as is…
Also Pastor Ragsdale will be speaking to and addressing these similar issues in his upcoming sermons… You can find them on our video sermon page… The first one will be uploaded this week hopefully, entitled “Go Deeper, Part 4: A Life Lived Deeper”. Join us for an uplifting message and provocative discussion on the issues that we face in the soon coming election.
[Taken from the Facebook page of Joel Lamb, Somerville, TX]
In just three months it will be over. The US presidential election, I mean.
Not the end of the world — but maybe the end of our nation as we have known it.
I am not voting for a man. I am not rallying on a personality. I am not
pushing a person. At this point I am voting for one thing — and one thing only. I am voting for the principles for which this country has stood since its founding.
Things I am voting for:
* constitutional government
* a strong and viable military
* a vibrant economy
* the right to keep and bear arms
* the freedom to worship
* a national recognition of the founding of our nation on biblical principles
* the ability for anyone to rise above his or her circumstances and become
successful
* my children and grandchildren to be able to choose their own path in life — including how and where their children are educated
* our borders to be open to everyone who enters under our law and closed to everyone who would circumvent or ignore the law
* the Electoral College to remain in place so that a few heavily populated centers do not control the elections
* a Supreme Court that interprets the Constitution rather than rewrites it
* the teaching of history with all of its warts — not erasing it or revising it
* the sanctity of life from conception to birth and after
Things I am voting against:
* open borders
* a rampant welfare system that enslaves its recipients
* socialism in all its forms — including universal government-run health care, redistribution of wealth, reparations, etc.
* criminals released to repeat the same crimes (instead of prison reform)
So, although I don’t give blanket approval to everything our President has done or said in the past, I do support him as our President.
I am not voting against Joe Biden, but I am voting against everything that the party backing him and propping him up stands for. It’s not the
Democrat Party of the past. (Pastor Joel Lamb)
As Pastor of West Marion Baptist here in Ocala, Fl., while we stay true to the command of Christ to share His Gospel, we also believe the Christian cannot be neutral in the political arena. To be neutral is to give approval to the enemies of God – which will affect every person on this planet -beginning with the unborn. Simply put, if ANY of the platforms go against God’s instructed principles in His Word, we are to Rise Up, Stand Up, and Speak OUT. Do your part. Trust God for the outcome. At least go on record that you did all you could to stand for righteousness. Encourage your people to become active in getting out the vote and be ready to give an answer as to why NOT to vote your conscience, but to vote Biblical Principles to those they come in contact with.
…For such a time as this
JULY 23, 2020
So much continues to happen as we see the day approaching of our Lord’s Return – and with the Second Coming of Christ on the horizon, how much closer are we to the Rapture of His Church! We all know there is still so much we have to contend with right now…the Covid-19 virus – whether to wear that mask or not (also…what about the vaccines? contact tracing, etc.), the rioting and protestings, the continued unrest in the world across all boundaries – not to mention our own health issues as we all continue to age. Let’s face it – we are ALL looking forward to our new bodies and our new living quarters with our Great Shepherd, our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
BUT UNTIL THEN… what are we supposed to be doing? You already know what to do as a Christian, so this is just a reminder and an encouragement to keep your eyes on the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus…(Philippians 3:13-14) – don’t let any man steal your crown (Revelation 3:11) and occupy till I come (Luke 19:13).
In general…
-First make sure we are in a right relationship with our Lord – confess our sins moment by moment. Don’t let any time go by before we confess and forsake sin of any sort. (If My People… 2 Chronicles 7:14)
-We are to continue being light in a dark world – to speak up for Christ – and stand for what is true and righteous in a world that has lost its way. And not to be afraid to do so. (Perfect love casts out fear…1 John 4:14)
-We are to be obedient to Christ’s commands, like:
*Reading His Word and praying
(Philippians 4:6-8)
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
*Give time to study His Word and memorize scripture to help us in the near future when we feel so helpless as we lose the freedom to orchestrate our own lives and our families lives.
*Pray for our state leaders and our President. Pray for those who are in opposition to God and His children (us!). Ask the Lord to bless them and to save them. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
*And lastly – meet with other Christians – other believers. Go to Church! (Hebrews 10:25) We know this is a difficult one as in several states the government is shutting down the churches. Can you believe we would ever have a discussion about this in our Country? We believe that as Christians, we have been negligent in our duties to continue to speak up and share the Gospel and the directives in God’s Word with those in our communities and it has thus affected the outcome of the leaders who have been selected. We have failed to be salt. What shall we do? REPENT – TURN AWAY FROM SIN – SEEK HIS FACE – DO THE FIRST WORKS.. before the Lord extinguishes our light.
“Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” (Revelation 2:5)
Now, I sincerely hope there is none who are reading this encouragement that says “I don’t sin” – or “I have no sin” or “my sin is not bad compared to…” You must repent – I must repent – we all must repent. Go back and read 2 Chronicles 7:14 again…” if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, THEN I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.“
Any sin is grievous to our Lord and hides His face from us. (Isaiah 59:2)
Not to mention the passages in the New Testament that tells us ‘if we say we have no sin, we make God a liar and his truth is not in us.” (1 John 1:8-10)
Brethren, we may be standing just around the corner from standing before Almighty God. Are you ready? Are you continuing to hold forth His light in a darkened world? Because whether we are ready or prepared for His return, He is coming in an hour in which you think not (Matthew 24:44). Don’t lose hope. Repent and Turn from sin, Seek His Face….Do the first works. And WATCH.
Matthew 24:42-51
42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. 45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. 47 Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. 48 But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; 49 And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; 50 The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, 51 And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
All Scriptures KJV
JUNE 29 – JULY 19 2020
As we see so much turmoil in our great country and also throughout the entire world, we need to be reminded of who we are as Christians, who we belong to, where we will be going (and very soon) and what we as Christians should be doing while we are still on planet earth!
We do not have time to waste away with the pleasures of this world – the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). We need to cast our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2)…the One with whom we have to do (Hebrews 4:13-16).
Hebrews 4:13-16 (kjv)
“3 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. 14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”
2 Peter 3:1-14 (kjv)
“3:1 This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 2 That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: 3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 (kjv)
“If MY people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; THEN will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
– Pastor Ragsdale
ALL CHURCH SERVICES HAVE RESUMED
Sunday Morning Worship @ 10:30 AM
Sunday Evening Service @ 6:00 PM
Wednesday Evening Service @ 7:00 PM
Sunday School @ 9:30 AM
If you have any questions, please call the Pastor @ 352 245-8900…
WHAT WILL WE BE STUDYING?
*Sunday Mornings Series:
*Sunday School:
*Sunday Evenings:
*Wednesday Evenings:
*Don’t forget – Bible devotions/messages during Covid-19 are available on our church facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/westmarionbaptistchurch
JUNE 2020
Let’s not forget to continue in prayer for our great Country and our President and Leaders and our People. There are many forces within our country and from without that seek to divide and destroy this great nation of ours.
But IF God be for us, who can be against us? The key is and always will be with God’s people. If my people. Individual and collective repentance of God’s People and His Churches.
2 Chronicles 7:14…”If MY people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; THEN will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
– Pastor Ragsdale
MAY 23, 2020
As we observe this Memorial Day Weekend, we would like to take time to honor all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the freedoms we all enjoy. How quickly they can be destroyed as we have seen during the first phases of the Covid-19 alert. Let us all endeavor to do our part to keep our great land free as an inheritance to our children and our children’s children. Fight the good fight of faith and never forget those who gave their all to this fight. And don’t forget to bathe our nation’s leaders in prayer – for God’s wisdom to be given as they govern us…and for supernatural protection from the onslaught of the enemies of our great God and country. – Pastor Ragsdale
We are so thankful that we will once again be meeting in God’s house with God’s people. We do not take lightly the privileges and freedoms that we have been given – and we know you are thankful too!
Join us for our services tomorrow where we will give God the praise and glory for His great love and unending mercies toward us all.
APRIL 2020
Dear Church Members and Friends of West Marion Baptist Church!
I just wanted to let all of our church family and friends know how much Carol and I miss you and are praying for you all.
As a note of encouragement, do not be in despair with all the goings on around you at this time. The Lord has already got this under control. He knew about this before we were born. Some may ask ‘why doesn’t the Lord stop this virus-this epidemic that has not only hit our great land but has troubled the whole world?’
I believe the true believers in Christ have the answer in 2 Chronicles 7:14…”If MY people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; THEN will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
My people – the person who has been born again, saved, the new birth…
John 3:3 :Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
John 3:7 “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Called by my name – those who have been called into a relationship with Christ…many are called, few are chosen…
Matthew 22:14 “For many are called, but few are chosen.”
Humble themselves – realize we are nothing before the Lord; get rid of pride – God hates pride! especially in those who profess His name…
Prov 6:16-17a “16 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17a A proud look,”
Pray – let your prayers, supplications, and requests be made known unto God Philippians 4:6 “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
Seek my face – seek the Lord through reading His Word, meditating on His Word and then LISTENING to what His Spirit says to your heart…
Proverbs 8:17 “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”
Jeremiah 29:13 “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”
Turn from my wicked ways – Yes, the Lord calls much of our ways (even from the very ‘best’ of us) wicked. He says our hearts-every one of our hearts-are deceitful and wicked!
Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”
We need to turn away/repent from our ways that seem right to us…
Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”
Psalm 139:23 “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:”
…but in reality, our hearts are very from Him…
Matthew 15:18 “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.”
“THEN” (after the believer has done these things) THEN will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Let’s do our part as believers in Christ to make sure we are not the ones standing in the way of healing for our peoples and our lands.
God bless you as you consider these words and passages.
-Pastor Ragsdale
all Scriptures – kjv
