Monday, December 19, 2011

The Fast of Daniel—Day Three

The Character of God

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power. — Abraham Lincoln

A person’s character relates to his or her moral values, nature and behavior.

Only those who are born of the Holy Spirit truly manifest the character of God, and that is because His children become spiritual beings. John 3.6

Their emotional or fleshly nature is changed into a rational or spiritual nature.

This is why many faithful members of the Church, and overly religious believers are left wondering why they are still unable to live lives that agree with Christian faith. They behave one way in church and in a completely different way outside.
In church they act righteous, polite and seemingly spiritual.

At home, at work, and among their friends they are fleshly, rude and clearly troubled people.

This happens because they have not been born of the Holy Spirit. They do not have God’s nature. They are convinced of the truth, but are not yet converted to the Lord Jesus. Their character speaks for itself.

Humans are emotional by nature—it all began with Adam and Eve. God created them living beings.

A Godly nature is a spiritual nature, one that originates with Jesus. He was not created by God; He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and therefore a life-‐giving spirit. I Corinthians 15.45

The same process used by the Holy Spirit in the birth of Jesus has to happen with each one of Jesus’ disciples. Otherwise, they will continue to have Adam’s nature—and even worse, they will not be considered children of God.John 1.13

This is the amazing role of the Holy Spirit: He causes some to be born of God.
And for those who have already been born of God, He comes to stamp them with the Seal of God. This is the baptism that the Lord Jesus performs.

The first apostles were born of God when Jesus breathed on them. John 20.22

But only on the Day of Pentecost were they baptized with the Holy Spirit. Acts 2.1

As you can see, the purpose of the Holy Spirit is not speaking in tongues, but for you to display the same character as His Son: Jesus.

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Youth Group

We know that the best time to get on the right track and prepare for the future is during our young years, when we're open to learn, ready to start, and game for new challenges. This is why the YPG exists. It's a way to grow together in an exciting and productive way to successful adults. The YPG meets every Saturday at 2pm and Sunday 12:30pm. The meetings are very interactive and always include an inspiring message, singing, and games. Youth Pastor works with the youth by not only meeting with the group, but also sitting down with each group member for counseling a number of times every week. We're not like other 'feel good' groups out there. We sure want you to feel good but more than that — we also want you to do well for yourself. You will mature and become an above-average youth just by coming to the YPG meetings. If you're ready for some challenge, then you're ready for the YPG.