The Rock Church

Sheep Herding

“Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” — Acts 16:6-10 (NIV84)

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God’s Purpose

“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me…” — Psalm 138:8 (NIV84)

“For when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep.” — Acts 13:36 (NIV84)

Sometimes life can get confusing. Even for me (as a Christian leader for over 35 years), I occasionally wonder, “God, what are you doing?” or “God, what do you want ME to do?” As a planner, I like to know the answers to both of these questions (especially as it relates to the direction our church is going). It can be somewhat unnerving to feel a bit “directionless” at times.

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No Counterfeits

“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel — which is no gospel at all.” Galatians 1:6 (NIV84)

My older sister has an innate ability to discern distress in my voice. Many years ago, our first-born son, Joseph, was admitted to the hospital for an unknown virus; he was only 10 weeks old! I called my sister to let her know. “What’s wrong?” came her instant and concerned response to my weak greeting. She had me. I burst into tears as the stress and torment of the last few hours overwhelmed me. My sister knew me too well — I couldn’t put up a front. Something was wrong and she discerned it immediately.

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Better Than Peeps

I don’t know about you, but in the midst of marshmallow peeps, chocolate marshmallows, jellybeans, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, Easter 2017 was a blessing to my life! God really reminded me of why Jesus had to die and why I can have tremendous hope because of the Resurrection. Between our six services this past weekend, we had over 1,300 people come through our doors! There were at least 18 people who indicated that they prayed to receive Jesus for their salvation! God was so kind to bring us dozens of new visitors and people who got to worship Jesus and hear a clear presentation of the Gospel. They were also blessed to be loved on by all of the wonderful saints at The Rock.

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Stirred Up

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful…” — 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV84)

Like many of you, I read through the One Year Bible for my devotions each morning. I’ve done this for over 20 years. Sometimes, as I’m slogging through Leviticus, it is difficult to find a “meaningful” verse that applies to my every day life. Let’s face it, there are just so many ways you can apply verses dealing with offerings, skin infections, sacrifices, and atonement! Some days, I feel like I’m just going through the motions.

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Revealed

“For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.” — Luke 8:16 -17

I’d like to tell you a story. Although it took place a few years ago, it really encouraged my family’s faith and I believe that glorifies the Lord.

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Forgiven

I’ve been recently teaching on one of my favorite subjects: forgiveness. I truly believe that many Christians do not really understand their forgiveness. This lack of understanding causes them to live like slaves to their sin! In John 8:32 Jesus says He came to set men free (“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”). Here’s some good news, Christian: ALL your sins are forgiven — you are FREE! We are free from sin. But, do we live like it? In order to live a life of freedom and joy, you need to understand that ALL YOUR SINS have been forgiven.

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More This Christmas

“However, as it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him“ — but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.’” (1 Corinthians 2:9-10 NIV)

Christmas is so close, and I can assure you, there are a few excited boys at the Young home (yes, I am one of them)! Christmas is indeed a magical time. (more…)

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Thankful

“I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” (Ephesians 1:16-17 NIV)

I was recently on vacation with my family in Iowa (see picture of butter cow above), and was reminded about how thankful I am for your faithfulness and generosity in your giving to The Rock Church! God is using your gifts and sacrifices to make a real difference in the lives of many people and in the ministry of our church.

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Prepared

“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.” — Exodus 23:20 (NIV)

I read this verse last week in my quiet time. What an exciting visual — God’s angels leading the way to a place Jesus has prepared for our church. I have been claiming this verse for a “home of our own” — our own Sandy/Draper facility — since 2006. (more…)

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