Teachable Spirits

by Pastor Doc Adkins

“…when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.” Proverbs 21:11

I was studying some Bible passages recently that say, “teach me”. There are several of them in the Psalms, such as “Teach me thy way” (Psalm 25:4), “Teach me thy statutes” (Psalm 119:12), “Teach me to do thy will” (Psalm 143:10), and there’s other “teach me’s” in the Scripture. It struck me as I was studying through those that in order to do all those things, I have to be “teachable” to begin with or I’m not going to learn how to do those things.

Having a teachable spirit is such a good trait to have. It means we are able to receive instruction. Proverbs 21:11 says, “When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.”

When we learn something new or even are reminded of something we already know, it makes us more knowledgeable. It helps us live more wisely. I doubt if any of us have a teachable spirit all of the time, and I was thinking about some of the things that hinder us from being teachable.

We think we know it all.

Thinking we know it all can really hinder our learning. When we are in that mode, we don’t allow anything to soak in. It’s like we have this coating on us that blocks out everything we should be absorbing.

We can never learn enough about Christ or know our Bible as good as we need to in order to serve the Lord the way we should. How can we ever know it all when it comes to Christ?

“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!” Romans 11:33

We don’t listen closely.

Do you ever do that? Half listen? I know I do sometimes. If we are not careful, we may just miss some very important points that we’ll need down the road.

When dealing with the Christian life, we have to listen closely to the Lord too.

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” John 10:27

We are too busy talking ourselves.

When we are rattling on ourselves, we miss out on some learning experiences. Sometimes we have to just stop and listen.

“Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” Psalms 141:3

We don’t see the need to learn.

Ever in that situation? We probably all felt that way when we were young and in school. Why will I ever need to know this? How will this ever help me down the road?

When it comes to learning more about the Lord and His Word, look at all the benefits we can reap. Look at how we can increase our faith alone.

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

We think we can’t learn the material.

I know there were times in college classes that I felt like I’d never be able to learn the material. Sometimes it’s like that in life too. I know some new Christians feel that way about the Bible too. It doesn’t matter what the material is, when we start with the attitude that we will never learn, it hinders us from the beginning.

“The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalms 119:130

We allow distractions to slow down us down.

A lot of things get in the way of our learning, especially when we are trying to learn to be more like Christ and we are saying, “Teach me”. Those little things just keep us from opening our Bibles, from praying, and from really trying to learn from the Lord. We have to be so diligent not to allow things to creep in that will throw us off track.

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

We don’t like our teacher.

I have to admit, I’ve been there. You get in a room full of people and look around for the teacher, and when you spot them, your jaw drops. Maybe they are way younger than you. Maybe they look a little unorganized, or a little disheveled, and you start blocking out everything they are trying to teach you. Whether they are a great teacher and know their field of knowledge, you just refuse to learn from them.

Look at Who is teaching us to live the Christian life. Christ. He’s the Great Teacher. It’s what He did the whole time He was here on earth. He went about teaching.

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” Matthew 4:23

“And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.” Mark 6:6

“I was daily with you in the temple teaching…” Mark 14:49

Christ uses all kinds of things to teach us today. He uses His Word directly. He uses other people. Sometimes, yes, He even uses other people we may not like. He uses small and large things in our lives to teach us lessons. We just have to be open to what He has for us.

Conclusion:
I hope I can develop a teachable spirit, especially when it comes to the things of the Lord. There’s so much to learn that I need to live my Christian life to the fullest.

I think of Mary and how she sat at the feet of Jesus to learn. (Luke 10:38-42) Remember the Lord’s response to Martha when she wanted Mary to help her serve?

“But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:42

I want to choose that “good part” of learning from the Lord. I know to do that I need to work on keeping out those things that hinder me and slow me down when it comes to listening to Him.

So, how teachable are you?

What’s up?

Our GLOW kids currently meet on Wednesday evenings at 6:00PM and they are having a great time learning about Jesus in all kinds of fun ways.

Our Illuminate Youth Group is planning an Out-Of-School Lock-in on Saturday, June 1st here at the church. A scavenger hunt and other great activities are planned.

Vacation Bible School 2019 has not yet been scheduled.

Keep a watch in the bulletin for activities throughout the summer for both groups.

Marriage: Two for the See-Saw

by Rev Robert A Wendel

“Be subject to one another. Be of the same mind, husband and wife having the same love. And the two will become one flesh. The wife and husband shall fulfill their duty to each other.” (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3, I Corinthians 7:8-16,39 NRSV.)

In marriage, a man and a women agree to ride the see-saw of life, with all of its ups and downs, together. (Ruth 1:16).

The vows they make at a ceremonial moment really mean that they get each other in return. Each, gladly, meeting the other’s needs, taking on each other’s burdens. There will always be the other to talk to and to listen to. And they will have countless opportunities to be patient and kind to their sweetheart, while becoming more rich yourself than just you alone. (I Corinthians 13:4-5). These ancient notions are the biblical ideal.

Matrimony is to be thought of as a Divine institution people enter into out of custom, duty or a need to procreate. Most of us think this one relationship should-and could provide the full buffet of satisfaction; intimacy, support, stability, happiness and sexual exhilaration. If the union is not up to the task, then it’s easy and cheaper to unsubscribe and divorce. (2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:2).

Marriage is the most intimate and basic of our social institutions but also the one most subject to shifts and change, making single adult life completely attractive. In a survey by Cornell University, couples said “At one point, their long marriage was the best thing in their lives, but it takes work (attention) and is really, really hard” (Corinthians 3:15-17).

The ultimate dream; figuring out how to go the distance, being faithful while bringing out the best in your partner. Studies suggest that married people have better health, better wealth and even better sex than their counterparts; and will, probably, die happier.

How do you find a soul-mate? Choose wisely! Stay married as if divorce is not an option. Charles Swindoll, radio bible teacher said, “To the unmarried; Be patient! Wed someone who is an active Christian. To the married; Be content! To the remarried; Be grateful.”

It’s Amazing!

by Debbie Vanaman

In the 25 years that this program has been in existence, countless numbers of children and their families have heard the name of Jesus for the first time and imagine how it has changed their lives. There are more and more children who are now adults coming forward and sharing their stories on the Samaritan’s Purse website about how that one shoebox in a tiny town half-way around the world made such an impact in their lives. Some of them have even come to the United States and are now spokespersons for Operation Christmas Child. Imagine the changes that have taken place over 25 years. IT’S AMAZING.

Anyway, down to some numbers. This year a huge goal has been set for 2019 and that goal is to collect 11 million (yes I said million) shoeboxes this year in both the United States and around the world. This goal can be attained first and foremost through prayer. Prayer is a vital part of the mission of Operation Christmas Child and has been the cornerstone of its success so far.

Also equally important is your support of this mission. We have been collecting items so far this year and for that I thank you. We will be hopefully building 100 shoeboxes in November with the items you have been donating. For the month of June, I’m asking that you dig into that little pocket of “mad” money that I know we all have and contribute towards the shipping costs of these boxes. The shipping cost for each box is $9.00 so you do the math – that’s $900.00. Checks can be made out to First Baptist Church and just put the word “shoeboxes” on the memo line.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support of what has grown to be a phenomenal ministry.

Helping Hands Continues its Mission

Now that school is out and summer is officially here our demand for food and clothing here at Helping Hands continues. We continue to serve the people of Raleigh County and that demand is growing every week. We are always in need of non-perishable food that will offset items that we have to purchase as well as plastic Kroger or Walmart bags. These items can either be dropped off at Helping Hands or left in the large black container outside the church office.

We also receive donations from local supermarkets that also provide meat, vegetables and baked goods. There is a regular crew of men who do these pick ups and we really appreciate the time these men give every week doing this task.

With vacations coming on, we are always in need of volunteers to fill in while our regular workers are out of town. We are open Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 until noon. Contact Edna Nasby and let her know when you can help. Also, don’t forget if you shop at Kroger to add us to their Community Rewards program. You can do this at Kroger.com as long as you have a Kroger card (and who doesn’t have one of those).

Please keep us in your prayers as we continue to meet the needs of those less fortunate.

An Update from the Board of Missions

As you are aware, we have begun collecting funds for our One Great Hour of Sharing offering with a good start of $650 as of 5/19/20. Please pray about and give your best to this important fund. It provides emergency help nationally and also locally – right here in Southern West Virginia.

Please keep our missionaries in your prayers. Take notice of the world map located in the Welcome Center in the Board of Missions shadow box. It shows the location of several of the missionaries that we support.

Remember – missions matter. With our financially support, we are fulfilling God’s command to go into all the world with His word. We can’t go personally – nor have we been called to go. But by supporting our missionaries with our prayers and money, we are obeying God’s call for us.

ABW Ministries is Going on the Road

The ladies of the ABW Ministries invite all ladies to join them for a lunch outing on June 13th to the Fruits of Labor Café in Rainelle. Sign up outside church office. Transportation will be provided. The church van will be leaving at 11 am. We are looking forward to a great meal and a great time of fellowship. Contact Janice Wood for further details.

News from the Lizzie Lewis Circle is that they are having a salad luncheon on Thursday, June 6th at 1:00 p.m. Please bring your favorite salad fixin’s to add to the greens and lettuce which will be provided.

School is Finally Over

School is finally over for this term. At the end of this year we were serving 26 children. We  pray they will have adequate food this summer. Our Backpack Ministry could not function without our reliable volunteers. Each one has played a valuable part in this ministry. If you are wondering who they are here is a list: Jeff Oakland, Darrel Yurkovich, Ken & Margaret Dilley, Richard and Janice Wood, Charlotte Hutchens, Connie Neal, Nancy Moran, Debbie Quinn, Dave & Linda Allport, Nancy Hall, Mike & Patty Atterson, Linda Ramsey, Mary Stover, Debbie Vanaman, Gordon & Mary Gregory, Johnny, Helen & Tim Greene. Thanks to each one of you! Please continue to pray for our Backpack Kids.

.For the month of June please bring individual applesauce cups.

Pretty Flowers All in a Row

by Pastor Doc Adkins

And yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Matthew 29

If you take a look around our area, we see that the signs of spring and summer are all around. Grass is greener, trees have their leaves now, birds are singing, and folks are planting gardens and flowers. 

Again, I remember growing up days on my grandparents’ farm and one of the things my grandmother always did was plant her flowers. You name it, she’d plant it. Ladies at church would swap flowers “starts” and at times get into a “budding feud” about whose were the prettiest. Funny old women!

Flowers are one of the most beautiful things I think God created. Sometimes I think He created them just for to add some kind of beauty in an otherwise dirty world.. They give us happier, peaceful views of life. . When I see how simple but yet how fantastic flowers are, I can’t help thinking that God is still in control and all is right with the world.

People have loved flowers back from the beginning of time and there are different meanings that have been associated with specific ones over the years. Many flowers have come to have several different meanings. We will take a look at just four of them to see what we can learn.

Aster – Contentment
Asters are those pretty little dainty white flowers that have a yellow center. I think they look like wild daisies. We have them growing along the roads here in WV .

One of the meanings associated with the aster flower is contentment. I kind of like that. They are simple yet pretty flowers and they do give me that sense of contentment. Those words in Philippians come to mind.

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Philippians 4:11

Contentment sure is a nice place to be in our lives. Isn’t it? No matter what the circumstances, we have that ease of satisfaction. The problem I think that people have with contentment is that they get it confused with being complacent. Complacent means we don’t care about things or are unconcerned, but being content is not that. When we are content, we end up caring more because we don’t allow things around us to get us off track. It’s being able to push forward and have that peace no matter what the circumstances.

Camellia – Graciousness
My grandmother had a lot of favorite flowers and Camellias are right there toward the top of her list.  She had a large Camellia bush beside the front porch.

The meaning associated with the camellia is graciousness. I think that’s a word we don’t hear used much anymore and we certainly don’t see it displayed much.

It means excellence of manners or social conduct. Shouldn’t we as Christian embody that? The world sure doesn’t. I think if we want to be in full bloom as Christian people we really need to concentrate on being gracious. I have known a few very gracious Christian people in my life and to me that makes them quite breathtakingly beautiful.

A gracious woman retaineth honour… Proverbs 11:16

Larkspur – Beautiful Spirit
The Larkspur is a pretty flower. I’ve mostly seen them in purple but they can be other colors as well. One of the meanings associated with the Larkspur is a “beautiful spirit”. Wow. That’s something to strive for. I’ve always loved that verse in 1 Peter where it is talking about a “meek and quiet spirit”.

One thing I read about the Larkspur is that some of them have become endangered and that you don’t find as many anymore except for those grown specifically for flower arranging. Kind of like those “meek and quiet spirit” people. There doesn’t seem to be an abundance of them either.

Black Eyed Susan – Encouragement
I’ve always admired the Black Eyed Susan. They are so bright and striking that I think they normally contrast everything around them. The meaning of the Black Eyed Susan is encouragement.

I sure love to be around encouraging people. Don’t you? People that give you that special word you need just at that moment or are there to cheer you on in whatever you are doing at the time. Those bright people definitely contrast with those around them.

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Ephesians 4:29

Conclusion:
I think there are things in our Christian lives that we have to have like pretty flowers all lined up in a row. Things like these four- contentment, graciousness, meek spirits, and encouragement. There are other things too all involved in our Christian living such as love, compassion, and all those other things Christ taught us. When we have these things in order, we have a tendency to live our Christian lives in a more beautiful way.

No one ever said that the Christian life was easy and when it comes to some of these, it requires a little work. We can’t just put up our little place markers with our flower names on them and expect them to flourish if we leave them alone. They require us to put some energy into them by using those tools of Bible study, prayer, and righteous living.

So, are your flowers all in a row?

Summer is Coming

by Rev Tim Mitchem

We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)

May brings flowers, graduations, promotions, pools opening and the beginning of SUMMER. It has been a crazy winter, and a wet spring so far. But with students graduating and being promoted and knowing I was going to write an article, I found myself praying this proverb. We can make our plans, what college we plan on going to, what next year’s school is going to be like. What we want to do over summer break, who we want to hang out with and the list goes on and on.

We are good at making plans, and even good at breaking plans. But we are reminded that it is the LORD who determines our steps. We can make all the plans in the world and they can be changed in just a second. Sometimes we begin making plans in our own way of thinking. I remember being a teen and making plans to be wealthy and own businesses and having everything I thought I wanted in my future. But God has a way of ordering our steps in ways we are not thinking.

Students, be praying about what you desire and ask God to show you the plans He has made for you. Jeremiah 29:11 says he has made plans for your future, Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. God has a special plan for each of you, I hope as we go into the summer months of 4th floor Worship and bible study we can begin that focus; What’s God got planned?

Summer is coming, and I hope to have a planning meeting for all the fun we are going to have, kicking off summer with a Lock-in, fun times together and a trip to Carowinds!!! Plus an awesome week at Camp Cowen, Where we will learn how to Live Loved!!! We are just getting started on our journey together, so don’t miss an opportunity!!!!