Monday Morning Meditations with Pastor Dr. Mike Hargett, Sr.

“SPEND - SPEND - SPEND”

2009-11-30T06:55:00.000-06:00

ISAIAH 55:1-4

1 "Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink, even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk, it's all free! 2 Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food. 3 "Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. 4 See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations.

I cannot believe what Christmas is turning into. Stores were open on Thanksgiving Day, Decorations were up in October! All of this in an effort to entice us to spend, spend, and spend! Yet there are people spiritually thirsty and dying of spiritually malnutrition. Nothing offered on sale can ever compare to what God has to offer us. SALVATION! People are out there looking for happiness in things that will only be momentary. Things that loose value and cannot be taken to heaven!

This reminds me of a story about a very rich man who was about to die. Before his passing, he instructed his wife to take a great sum of money and to place it in a case. He then instructed her to place the case in the attic so that on his way to heaven he could take it with him. The man passed away. A few days later his wife went up to the attic and the case was still there. She then thought to herself that maybe she should have left it in the basement…

Brothers and Sisters do not put stock into what is temporary. Happiness, in every since of the word is dependent on external things that will not save you! Oh! But Jesus has something for you! The finest awaits you! And it is FREE! Please remember the reason for the season! If you are thirsty, come and drink, even if you do not have money! No need to spend, spend, and spend! What God has for you is FREE! Be blessed this week! Walk in your anointing! In Jesus’ name!

FAITH IT OUT UNTIL YOU FIGURE IT OUT! THEN SHOUT IT OUT!

Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett
Copyright 2009 © TBMN, Inc.

“Truly Giving Thanks”

2009-11-30T06:52:00.002-06:00

Monday, November 23, 2009

Colossians 3:17

“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the

Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Truly Giving Thanks!

I hear people proclaim that they thank God for this and thank God for that and I often wonder do they really mean what they say? Do folk really thank God for waking up in the morning? Do folk truly thank God for use of their right mind? Do folk really praise Him they way he deserves to be praised? For me, I believe most people say it because it has become custom and ritual rather than meaningful. Evident by the way most folk who proclaim these things live their lives.

Actions speak louder than words! Folk say they thank God yet they do not live for him. For example, ever seen an award show and a popular performer receives a Grammy. They often begin their acceptance remarks by saying “First, I give honor to God.” But the recording and video they performed represented everything but God. If we are truly thankful to God for what he has given us then we must thank Him in everything that we do.

Do we fast? Hardly! Do we pray? Only when we want or need something! Do we reflect him? In secret! Do we give Him thanks in everything? In Church, perhaps… maybe! Brothers and Sisters it is all or nothing! No matter what we say, no matter what we do, it should a living testament of thanks to God with Jesus' name, power, and authority attached! This makes all of life our Worship and thanksgiving to God, everyday! There's no such thing as going to worship; if we live, if we talk, if we act as God is not a part of our everyday lives. Thanksgiving is Worship! Our everyday lives should be lived in Worship and in Thanksgiving and Praise! So how has your Worship been lately? Are you truly thankful?

In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN Happy Thanksgiving! Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett

“DIFFICULT AND HARD”

2009-11-30T06:48:00.001-06:00

Monday, November 9, 2009

Hebrews 4:12:
'For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart'

Ever find that living as is Christian is difficult and hard. Reading and studying your bible is difficult and hard. Prayer is hard and boring. Fasting regularly is a discipline. Worship takes up time. And giving offerings may mean putting something off that you really want. Yes! The life we live for God is not always easy and it is most times it is difficult and hard. By we have it easy here in America. Try worshiping God in China, Iran, or even India for that matter and you will have a new appreciation for term difficult and hard.

Many people around the world risk their lives to worship and praise God. Many non-believers point to this as a reasoning for their beliefs but for me this is evidence that God’s word is true. Paul wrote about the persecution we would have to face as believers. Yes! Difficult and hard but worth the battle! When you choose to live for God and follow the teachings of Christ you must be prepared to give some things up. You will have to give some people up. Give your pride up! Give some pleasures up! Give some of your past up! And for some in the world give their lives up!

But I have found over the years that through the study of God’s word what once seemed difficult and hard before has become a normal functioning part of my life. Now not reading the bible daily is difficult and hard. Not having prayer is boring and hard. Fasting is a healthy choice and worship brings me joy! Jesus paid the price for our salvation. We can now come into the body of Christ by faith and there is nothing difficult and hard about that. The Word of God will begin to fulfill your day and living the Christian life becomes easy and exciting! To receive Him is to receive the Holy Spirit, and to receive the Spirit is to be born again! The New Birth comes through a clear understanding of the Word of God and it is fulfilling. In all that you do the word of God will be quick, and powerful, and sharper than a two edged sword! It will divide the asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and will be a discerner of your thoughts and intents from your heart, but never difficult or hard!

Do not be deceived by the world! There is peace, love, and joy in Christ! In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN

Shabach Shalom!
Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett
TAKE IT BACK MINISTRIES, INC.

TRUST IN THE LORD

2009-11-09T06:24:00.001-06:00

Monday, November 2, 2009

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Check out what this weeks scripture says… “Trust in the Lord with … “ALL” your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” In the midst of whatever you are going through are you trusting God with all your heart? Are you leaning not to your own understanding but his? We are so wrapped up in the economy of the world that we often forget to thank God for the many blessings he has bestowed upon us. Much like the Israelites back in the day, we forget to acknowledge that all the blessings we have and all the opportunities we receive come because of his grace, love and mercy.

Things are rough for a lot of folk right now. People are desperate. What do you do when you loose your job, your money is funny, children acting a fool, and the doctors are not telling you anything good. Try this! Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Then Faith It Out until You Figure It Out! Then Shout it Out!

In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN

Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett
Copyright 2009 © TBMN, Inc.

TASTE AND SEE

2009-11-02T04:59:00.003-06:00

Monday, October 26, 2009

TAKE IT BACK MINISTRIES

Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett, Sr., D.D., P.C., D.M., Ph.D.

2323 Green Bay Road

North Chicago, IL 60064

Psalms 34:8

“O’ Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.”

Last week while on my travels in Wisconsin, I stopped for gas and came across a pack of “Mary Jane” candy. I purchased the candy, filled my vehicle with gas and was on my way. After looking at the pack candy sitting next to me, I begin to get excited even before popping the first piece into my mouth. I unwrapped the first piece, remembering my childhood and the very first time I had one. The flavor of the candy was nice and smooth as the peanut butter, honey, and pinch of salt emulsified in my mouth. Childhood memories rushed to the forefront of my thoughts.

Then the spirit of the Lord spoke to me and this scripture came to mind. As I was enjoying my candy and memories of a great childhood, Oh, I can taste and see that the lord is good! I begin to go back in my childhood and see how God provided me refuge in Him. The sweet taste of his love, grace, and mercy began to over take me! I began to praise and worship God! For as long as I can remember, I have always talked with God. My family and friends use to think I was strange because I always seem to be talking to this imaginary friend. Having a better understanding of who God is and how He communicates with us. I know now that this friend was the Holy Ghost with me all of my life. I see God throughout my life. Through the trails! Through the pain! Through the strain. Through it all! O’ I taste and see that the Lord is good!

I encourage you this week, to go out and buy a pack of candy that you have not had in a while. While eating it look back on your life and see where God has carried you from! Celebrate and praise God for bringing you through. And if you are in the midst of a storm seek refuge in him, and praise God anyway! Many this morning have a taste in your heart. Your heart feels heavy! It has for a long time now! A lot of old hopes have dried up. Dreams have been on hold and almost died. You have been running into dead end streets again and again. Your life feels empty, unfulfilled, dissatisfied. Deep in your spirit you know there has to be something more to life. But everything that looks good is out of reach. No money. No strength. No motivation. But at least a you have a hunger! O’ I taste and see that the Lord is good! Come find refuge in him… The Lord says, you are the perfect candidate! This offer is for everyone who thirsts and has no money -- no resources, no bargaining position, no track record, no power, no prestige, no pull. God is inviting you this week to enjoy the banquet of salvation. O’ I taste and see that the Lord is good!

The word "good" means that what God offers is top quality; it's the best there is. So come! O’ Taste and see that the Lord is good! Be blessed in his refuge! Have a great week! In Jesus’ name! Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett, D.D., D.M., P.C., Ph.D.

WAKE UP

2009-10-18T06:23:00.001-05:00

Monday, October 12, 2009

Acts 12:5-11

⁵Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. ⁶And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. ⁷And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. ⁸And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. ⁹And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. ¹⁰When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. ¹¹And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the LORD hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

I love this story in the bible. Peter was about to be put to death, chained to two men, and guarded by two others just outside his cell. And here was this brother asleep! He had that much trust in the Lord that he was getting his rest. Peter knew that God was going to take care of him. He knew that God had everything in control. So why should he be worrying about the things we have to face in our lives? When we are in trouble, or when we are going through some trial, or we are facing some seemingly impossible situation in our life, we should realize the fact that God has everything under control.

What God promises, He will deliver! In Peter’s case it was probably good that he was asleep. It meant he was at peace with himself and the circumstances around him. But Peter was not asleep in then spirit. When we are asleep spiritually we are not conscious of God’s promises, nor do we acknowledge them. When we are asleep spiritually we have no communication with God and we are not aware that God is there to help us in time of trial and trouble. God sends his angles to tell us to WAKE UP! And most just turn over and ignore God’s call! Before Peter could be delivered from that prison, he first had to wake up, get his senses together, realize that the angel was there to give him instructions and lead him out. So we must wake up and realize that God is with us! He is standing ready to deliver us from whatever has you chained. It does not matter whether it is your health, your finances, your employment, your dependence, or your past! God is ready to set you free! WAKE UP!

Are you in a prison of doubt, fear, or anxiety? Then, Wake Up and take command of your morning! Take and possess your promise! God is standing ready to help you! Wake up this morning and seek what God has for you! In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN

Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett

“MEGA CHURCHES”

2009-10-18T06:12:00.003-05:00

Monday, September 28, 2009

Matthew 23:37-39

³⁷"Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, ⁽⁾the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. ³⁸"Behold, your house is being left to you desolate! ³⁹"For I say to you, from now on you will not see Me until you say, 'BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD!'"

A friend of mine posted a FACEBOOK blog blasting Mega Churches. It is funny to me how folk outside the church can tell folk inside the church what to do. As I was reading and studying Matthew 23 this morning, Jesus warned against much of what this brother is seeing in the church today, he may not be all wrong. Nonetheless, here is my private response to him…

Why is it that Bill Gates can have billions but a man or woman of God must be in the poor house? Folk do not have a problem with Microsoft getting bigger but God forbid if the church grows or gets bigger. Job was rich. Noah and Moses were loaded. Paul and John had money too. Not to mention King David and how about Joseph? They all had money and God blessed them. Just as he blesses every one of us. It is not the responsibility of the church to take care of people who are not taking care of their business, for whatever reason.

Additionally, people just do not support their church. I have had people tell me "Pastor I do not have money for the offering today." That is fine with me because there are times when I did not have it as well, but I know my reasons… Money mismanagement. If you are paying more on credit cards than you are giving to your church something is wrong. Here are folk telling me that they have no money for an offering with their hair and nails done, new suits on, large rims on their cars, and plans to go out and eat after church. I cannot judge any of that but I do observe and God sees all! God knows their heart.

I do not receive a salary from my church and I work. I have the things that I have because of my giving to the church, not taking out of the God’s Kingdom. My rewards await me in heaven! I live in the house I live in because I am a man of God and I deserve to be blessed. I drive the car I have because I am a man of God and I am blessed. I have my PhD because God blessed me with knowledge and wisdom and I deserve to be blessed. My wife left her job to stay home with our baby because God blessed with me the skills I have to do the work that I do. What God has for me is for me and what God has for others in the ministry it is for them. You are pointing out what the church is not doing but how about you? Are you giving, studying, praying, fasting, repenting, praising, confessing, witnessing, loving, and testifying to the best of what God would have you be? I know I am not... But I am working on getting there and cannot call anyone else out until God is done with me…

Finally, I need to correct you. Jesus was a radical and DID separate people, places, and things. (Read the book of Matthew Chapters 23-28) YES! Jesus was a radical and angered a great number of people. In fact he separated people all the time... Jews and Gentiles. Good people and evil people. The faithful and the lost... The dead and the alive. He most certainly divided people. He had many disciples, and divided them. He had the special 12, and then divided them and had an inner circle of 3. And when all the disciples went out into the lands guess what happened? All these different church groups were formed. Each formed at the death of Christ and birthed at His resurrection. Jesus said "Upon this rock I will build my church." And there was a man standing on that rock and Jesus was building the church in him... In us! My question to you is are you standing on that rock or throwing it? In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN!

Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett

2009-09-28T07:47:00.003-05:00

“REST IN THE LORD”

TAKE IT BACK MINISTRIES - WINGS OF FAITH II

Monday, September 28, 2009

Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett, Sr. PhD D.D., P.C., D.M.

4257 West Van Buren Street

Chicago, IL 60624-2634

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Many of us are very busy with life. We are busy with work, school, children, and Church. This weekend I took off from all the business of life and sought refuge and rest in the Lord. Having personal rest time with Jesus is just as important as corporate prayer but we often neglect to take time out with the Lord. Bring your labor and heavy laden to the Lord and he will give you rest in the natural and in the spirit. Renew yourself and find inner peace for yourself with God.

Some of us are slaves to this world! Running and trying to get somewhere but not going anywhere. Others still are the walking dead… Alive in the natural - Dead in the spirit! Come take on the yoke of the Lord! Learn from him! He is gentle and you will find the rest in his word that you are looking for. The old saying is that “God will give you no more than you care bare!” And in today’s scripture it says that “My yoke is easy and my burden is light!” If you are feeling that heavy burden from what ever it is you are facing at home, at work, at school, in your marriage, in your health…. And if it seems too much for you to handle, stop trying to go it alone and find rest and peace in the Lord!

Often times I want to say yes to everything and to everyone. But it is just not humanly possible, I am just one servant of the Lord. I am blessed to have a supportive wife who has put off a successful career to stay home with the children in an effort to support the things that I do both in the secular and for the kingdom. But she too needs to be respected and rested in the Lord! Take time out to spend with your family and friends. Do not be so busy that you forget to stop and smell the flowers along the way. The work is hard and long and the laborers are few. But I am learning that for the few of us in the vineyard it is important to seek that rest in the Lord with family! I praise God this morning for giving me the wisdom to turn off the cell phone and stay home and enjoy my family and the reading and study of his word! In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett

“TAKE IT BACK MINISTRIES”

2009-09-22T06:01:00.011-05:00

Monday, September 21, 2009

I was recently appointed to serve as Pastor of WINGS OF FAITH II on the West Side of Chicago. First allow me say what a blessing it has been to have served under such a great man and woman of God, Pastors Drs. Gary and Patricia Stern, Peace of God Outreach Ministries. Waukegan, IL. I have learned a great deal under their teaching, preaching, and leadership. Nevertheless, God has placed this assignment on my heart and although leaving such a good ministry is hard to do I am stepping out on faith and launching out into the deep. “Not my will but your will be done Lord!” I am excited about being the new Pastor of Wings of Faith II as a part of Open Arms International Ministry, under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Jerry Herron, Chief Apostle and Presiding Prelate. Wings of Faith II will be operating under the banner of “TAKE IT BACK MINISTRIES, INC.” based on 1 Samuel 30:18&19 18 And David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away: and David rescued his two wives. 19 And there was nothing lacking to them, neither small nor great, neither sons nor daughters, neither spoil, nor any thing that they had taken to them: David recovered all.

Today, the enemy of our lives is doing the same old thing he’s been up to since the Garden of Eden. He’s stealing your joy, your peace, your security, your hope and your relationship with God with his lies and deceit! The sad thing is that most often times we are giving it all to him! So, let me ask you this…. At what point did the enemy break in and steal your joy? At what point did he break in and steal your peace, your hope, and your love for God? What about that unique calling? The gift to serve others in song, to preach, to teach, to be a missionary, not long ago there was a stirring inside of you but then you got discouraged, somebody let you down, something went wrong in your church, you tried twice, but somebody criticized you… soon the dream was gone and you thought the calling was not real! You got ripped off! Now get ticked off and TAKE IT BACK!

Many of you are not living life and experiencing life to the fullest. Many of you are nothing more than the walking dead! Walking around in a permanent state of rage and victim-hood, fog of confusion, fear and faithless, defeated and demoralized, troubled and traumatized. While your purpose for living is for Christ. But because many believe there is no reason for life they turn to drugs, alcohol meaningless relationships, career achievements, pleasures of this world, something… anything to fill the void! God made man to find fulfillment in him…. And his awareness has been stolen from us right here in the church today.

Even for those who are saved the devil has a strategy for theft… the loss of our first love for Jesus… yes we still love the lord, we still come to church but what happened to all the energy and passion? It is time to TAKE IT BACK! What about your zeal and your intensity? It did not evaporate! Satan steals the hot embers, we get ripped off! But wings of faith is here to help you… TAKE IT BACK! The bible says in 2 Corinthians 3:18 “All of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the lord.” You cannot shine if the light has been stolen from you! TAKE IT BACK! As the spirit of the lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more. TAKE IT BACK!

TAKE IT BACK MINISTRIES, INC. and WINGS OF FAITH II are ministries that will teach and preach having a personal relationship with God! To understand your life’s purpose and how to live for God’s purpose for your life as it was God that has given life in all its fullness. We are developing the Pastor’s Vision as God is giving it to me. Watch for our Interactive Web Site, Web Radio, Web TV, and most importantly our first Sunday Church Service! I am humbled by the task the Lord has laid before me, Psalms 23:4 “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

I am looking forward to working with the ministerial staff and members of WINGS OF FAITH I and II. My family and I felt at home yesterday! Thank your for your hospitality! It is time to roll up our selves and get to work for the Lord. I know the steps will not always be easy but we have to keep on moving… FORWARD! There is a CHANGE in the atmosphere! Wings of Faith… TAKE IT BACK! In Jesus’ Name! Have a blessed week! AMEN

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett
Copyright 2009 © TBMN, Inc.

“A THANKLESS JOB”

2009-09-08T06:02:00.002-05:00

Monday, Sept. 7, 2009

1 COR 15:58 (NIV)
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Ever feel like the work you do in the Lord is not worth it? You pray and testify and the very people you desire to share in the Kingdom ignores your teachings, testimony and the truth. Can you just imagine how Jesus must have felt, knowing the rejection and pain he was had to face?

When I was at Lowes the other day, working on an Accutinter, I spent most of my day inside and under a computerized robot of sorts in the Paint Department. Because I was inside a machine full of colorant and paint no one noticed me around much. The customers were rude and very rarely said “Thank You” to the sales associates. One even commented that she had a “Thankless job!” “Everyone wants something but does not care about the one assisting them in getting want they want.” Brothers and Sisters, ministry is much the same way. I have not met a person yet that does not want to be saved but there are few who wants to praise God for giving us the salvation.

As preachers, teachers, and pastors we spend a lot of time trying to get folk to the point where they can thank God for the blessings he has bestowed upon us. We see people come and go! Folk join the church, folk leave the church, many to return more broken than were before. We see our own family members enthralled in sin and the ways of the world and we pray for them, just to be told… “If you come to this family event do not expect to pray…” Oh Yes! A thankless job! But it really is not! Saints, we must not seek the approval or appreciation of man. Do not get me wrong, it is appropriate to exhort one another, but as ministers we should not expect to be thanked by man. Often times what we must impart to the Church is not always popular or the word is so deep it will NOT move people to thank us. But we must always stand firm. Let nothing move us. Always give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because we know that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. No eyes have seen nor ears heard or man can comprehend what God has in store for those who does the work of the kingdom. Your true thank you” awaits you in heaven!

In working for the Lord all that you say and all that you do must be shown approved in God’s sight! Oh Jesus! I can not wait to hear the words “Well done my good and faithful servant!” So, what ever you are doing for God, let me say this and get it out of the way right now. Man will not “Thank you” because the work you are doing for the Lord is greater than man can understand. Our thoughts are not like His thoughts and our ways are not like His ways. It does not matter whether you are singing in the choir, cleaning the church, teaching Sunday School, on the radio, or writing a weekly blog! Do not look for man’s approval but seek God’s acceptance of your work through Prayer and Fasting. And you SHALL get the greatest “THANK YOU” for a truly “THANKLESS” job. Have a blessed week. Have a blessed Labor Day! In Jesus’ name! Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett
Copyright 2009 © TBMN, Inc.

“THE PRECIOUSNESS OF PRAYER”

2009-09-08T05:58:00.004-05:00

Romans 8:26-27:

²⁶Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. ²⁷And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

I have been focused on prayer for the last month and it is no wonder! On yesterday, Pastor Dr. Gary Stern gave 20 reasons why our prayers are not effective. It was a word that confirmed all that God has been saying to me. Prayer is the center of our faith and without it you can not have a personal relationship with God. Nevertheless, There are many different kinds of prayer available to us. There is prayer alone, maybe in our prayer closet or out in the open under the stars, there is prayer with the family, there is prayer in the social meeting, and then there is prayer in the great assembly. There is effective prayer and non-effective prayer. There may well be prayer at the usual hours, and then there can be prayer when we are especially tempted. Supplication is a common term for a special strong kind of prayer where we implore the Lord for our request. Oh yes! The Preciousness of Prayer!

The Word of God tells us that we should always be praying, and that we should be doing it without ceasing. That is, we should be ready to pray on every occasion and we should always be in an attitude of prayer, and we should always be communing, communicating, thinking and talking with God. Is it really possible to do this all the time? Is it really possible to pray without ceasing, that is to do it without stopping at all? Well, it must be possible; otherwise God would not ask us to do it. However, to walk and commune this closely with the Lord will take us all some time to achieve and develop. But it is something which we can aim at. The key to this is probably to have a heart which is after God. If we have this, then God will recognize our efforts and give us grace, even if our prayer is that of someone who is still stumbling around.

Is prayer precious to you? Enough that it's #1 on your To Do list. Do you know someone that really could use you bringing a prayer for them here? There is power in your prayer! (Ps. 62:11; Ps. 68:35; Is. 40:29). You can feel the presence of God through your prayers (Jn 14:23; Jn.15:15; Eph. 2:13); Humans are the only creatures on earth with the privilege of prayer! (Heb.10:19-22; Mrk 11:24; Ps. 145:18-19); You can find your peace through prayer (Is.26:3; Phil.4:6-7; Romans 8:6) All of life’s provisions can be met through prayer. (1 Jn.3:22; Matt. 21:22; Jn. 16:24); You can find peace and protection through prayer (Ps.91:1; Ps. 18:2; Ps.71:3); And nothing is more PRECIOUS than prayer. (Ps.139:17; Hebrews 4:14-16; Duet. 4:7). And even when you do not have words to utter in prayer, God fills the gap! What a wonderful God we serve! Next month a series on Fasting… Have a blessed week in Prayer! In Jesus’ name! Shabach Shalom!

By: Pastor Dr. Michael L. Hargett

What God Has For Me - Is For Me!

2009-08-24T07:26:00.002-05:00

Proverbs 16:20, NLT
"Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord."

First giving honor to God! To my Mother Martha. To my Wife Cheryl. To my Pastors Drs. Gary and Patricia Stern. To my good friend Dr. Mary Lacey, and to Bishop Dr. Jerry Herron, President of Open Arms Bible College and Seminary, and to each one of you! God bless you this morning.

I am humbled and grateful for the honors bestowed upon me this past weekend. I thank God for carrying me through the challenges of life. Everyday, I thank God for all that he has bestowed upon me. I use to walk around after receiving a blessing such as this waiting for the enemy to attack. After reading the story of Job, I realized that what God has for me is for me. I am not afraid to prosper in the Lord. I'm not worried about losing anything that God has for me. I have on the Armor of God! We are designed to be blessed by the Lord when we trust in Him.

I am now answering a calling on my life as a Pastor and lwith the support and guidance of my Pastors, Ministers, and Family I will work to build the Kingdom God. Oh God! Let them see you and not me in all that I do. I look to the challenges which are forth coming but greater is He that lives within me! In Christ all things are possible! I can not thank all of you enough for your prayers and support. Thank you God for using me! Thank you for allowing God to use me in your life. Keep me in your prayers as I will you! In Christ we serve! In Jesus’ name! Shabach Shalom!

Prayer That Moves God!

2009-08-24T07:22:00.001-05:00

^{Psalm 34:17-19}

¹⁷The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. ¹⁸The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. ¹⁹Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.

Have you ever been so let down by life that you simply cried out to the Lord and he answered your prayer? Then God moved and changed that situation? Healed that loved one? Delivered you personally? We all have been there. Broken down, hurt, disappointed, with no more tears to cry. And then we cry out to God and he hears our cries and delivers us out of all our troubles. MY GOD! These are prayers that move God to act on our behalf and what I love about this week’s scripture is that it says “… and delivereth them out of all their troubles.” Not some, not a few, but all your troubles! (SHOUT!)

This is what excites me about God. When he steps in everything is taken care of. When God hears your cry he moves to make a difference. Suffering is a part of life. Jesus too suffered, but he always cried out to the Father! Now today, he stands by the right hand of God interceding for us all. What a wonderful God we serve!

I heard a short story about three Elders on the staff of a large church were talking about prayer in general, and the appropriate and effective posture for prayer. A prayer that moves God. While they were talking a telephone repairman was working on the telephone system in their offices. One Elder said that the felt the key to effective prayer was in the hands. He always held his hands together and pointed them upward in a position of worship. The second suggested that the most powerful prayer was conducted on the knees. The third suggested that the other two were misguided, and that the most effective prayer was with one’s face on the ground. By this time the phone man couldn’t stay out of the conversation any longer. He jumped in and said, "I found that the most powerful prayer I ever made was while I was dangling upside down by my heels from a power pole, a hundred feet above the ground. God knew I was serious." God moved for me that day!

What has you hanging from a 100 foot pole this morning? It is time to cry out to the Lord! It is time to get serious in our crieds to the Lord. I am talking about a prayer that moves God! In Jesus’ name have a blessed week! AMEN!

By: Elder Michael L. Hargett

“GOD ANSWERS ALL PRAYERS” August 03, 2009

2009-08-06T06:07:00.002-05:00

Isaiah 55
1Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. 2Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. 3Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. 4Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. 5Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee. 6Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 13Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

“GOD ANSWERS ALL PRAYERS”

I’ve counseled countless people on the mystery and agony of unanswered prayer. God answers all prayers. I have found through the word of God that if the request is wrong, God will say, “No.” Like us, the disciples made inappropriate requests of Jesus, and he said, “No.” If the timing is wrong, God will say, “Slow.” Like children, we dislike the words, “Not yet,” as God shakes his head at us. God has reasons for his “Not yets;” we must not insist we know better than God. If you are wrong, God will say, “Grow.” Relational discord will cut us off from close fellowship with God. When we disobey, God says, “Why should I honor your requests when you don’t honor me?” When the timing is right, God will say, “Let’s go!” God wants to move that mountain for us; to change that circumstance; to answer that prayer. You’ll be amazed at how often God will say, “SADDLE UP!” “Let’s go!”

It’s almost a weekly occurrence. The conversations go something like this: “Pastor, didn’t Jesus say, ‘Ask and it shall be given, seek and you shall find, knock and the door shall be open?’ Didn’t he say that?” Now, being born yesterday, but not last night and being fairly confident in where conversations like this usually go, I get in the role of Pastor, and I burst into the conversation and say, “Friend, what prayer have you been praying that you fear God is not answering? Let’s get right to the root of the matter.” It is amazing how often that response opens the door for an honest out pouring of confusion and frustration.

Someone says, “I’ve been praying for my husband, my child, my parent... to stop drinking, and they haven’t stopped.” “I’ve been praying for a job, but I can’t find one.” “I’ve been praying for my wife’s depression. Nothing has changed.” “I’ve been praying for guidance, but no guidance has come.” On and on the lamentations go. I couldn’t begin to count how many people I’ve counseled over the mystery--I could even call it the agony--of unanswered prayer. I have decided to use the same memorable little outline with all of you that I use from time to time in my counseling sessions with individuals. If you’ve been praying and nothing seems to be happening, think on these statements with reference to a so-called unanswered prayer.

If the request is wrong, God will say “No” to your request. If the timing is wrong, God might choose to say “Slow,” go slow; wait. If you are wrong—a distinct possibility for some of us—if something is amiss in your life, maybe God will choose, instead of granting your request, to say, “You need to grow.” But if the request is right and the timing is right and you are right, chances are God will say, “Let’s go,” and grant the request. It is simple! God answers all prayers! God always knows the right answer to our requests: “No,” “Slow,” “Grow,” or “Let’s go.” Has God answered your prayer? If not, you need to examine the prayer. The request may be wrong. The timing may be wrong. Or may be you are not right with God. Prayer is not easy. It is a discipline and it is often boring and hard… (Which brings me into next week’s Meditation… “Why I Do Not Pray”) Have a blessed week in the name of Jesus! Amen.

Adapted By: Elder Michael L. Hargett
Associate Pastor
Peace of God Outreach Ministries
Pastors and Overseers Drs. Gary and Patricia Stern
Original Sermon By: Bill Hybels ©
© 2009 – MinTech®, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED!

“SUNDAY IS AN IN SPITE OF DAY” July 26, 2009

2009-08-06T06:04:00.001-05:00

Hebrews 12:1-2

¹Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, ²Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

First, I would like to thank my new friend, Pastor Rev. Dwight D. Gill and the entire New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange New Jersey for having me and my family. Everyone was so kind and showed such great hospitality and love for God. We enjoyed the spirit filled service and I have taken a little bite of New Hope back to Chicago with me! I feel as if I have known Rev. Gill all my life and I look forward to spending more time with him in the very near future. We enjoyed the fellowship and feel that we have a church home when we are there in New Jersey! It was nice to relax and be ministered to. My God! I can still hear the choir singing! Blessed the Lord! Again, thank you and God bless New Hope!

My family and I traveled to New Jersey to spend time with my Sister Angela for her birthday and for Mike Jr. to see his Grandmother. We had a good time of fellowship and spending time with family is important. I am so proud of seeing the growth of my sister in the Lord. It is nice to have new and exciting things to share in the Lord. One of the most important things you can do with family is pray. God bless my family!

How many of you had a good week? How many of you had a good month? How many of you are having a good year? How many of you are going through right now? Well, in spite of what kind of day, week, month, or year you are having... Sunday is an “in spite of” day. Sunday gives us the to begin a new week. In spite of… the Doctor’s diagnosis. In spite of… that no good spouse. In spite of economy. In spite of… In spite of! Sunday is an in spite of day!

In spite of it all God continues to bless each and every single one of us. Yes! Sunday is an in spite of day! For it is a day that the Lord has made let is rejoice and be glad in it! Seasons may come and go. Troubles may come and go. But God is ever faithful. Nothing from the past can cloud the vision that God has for us. With God all things are possible. We must learn to trust in God. Allow Him to guide us into new beginnings. Yes! Sunday is an in spite of day! No matter what you are going through God is there to see you through. But in order to get through - you must go through! However, if you can praise God in the midst of your storm you can praise God when you come out of the storm! Yes! Sunday is an in spite of day!

God’s love, mercy, and power has no limitation! And if he can save someone like me just think of what he can do for you! Sunday, is an in spite of day! There is nothing in all creation that exists outside the presence of God. There is nothing that can separate you from the love of God. He is unchanging and uncompromising. The God I serve does not know the words failure, recession, unemployment, or death. Sunday is an in spite of day! A day where you can bring and leave all your troubles at the alter. The truth be told, leaving our troubles at the alter is not easy, it is a discipline. Many of us seem to get our breakthrough on Sunday. We shout and praise God all day on Sunday is spite of but on Monday we are walking around in defeat. But in spite of it all God is still with us. God is with us everyday, in spite of! In spite of our sin, God loves us! In spite of our doubts, God loves us! In spite of our shortcomings, God loves us!

Everyday is an in spite of day! Come on! Let’s have an in spite of week! For the Lord! God is ever worthy of our trust. God is ever worthy of our love! God is ever worthy of our praise! In spite of! (SHOUT!) Have a blessed week, IN SPITE OF! In Jesus’ name! AMEN!

By: Pastor Michael L. Hargett

“HE HAS NOT BROUGHT ME THIS FAR TO LEAVE ME NOW” July 13, 2009

2009-08-06T06:02:00.004-05:00

Psalm 37:25
“I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.”

Many of you may be feeling like God is absent in your life. You are in a bad situation? And God is not answering your prayer. If you do not feel that way right now, you probably will somewhere down the road of life or perhaps you have felt that way in the past. But always remember what it says in Hebrews 13:5 it says, “…….for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Some of you here this morning have been running for Jesus a long time. You have come a long ways from where you started from.

My testimony this week is that I am in a partnership business (ministry) which gives computers to churches and other community originations. It has been a struggle for us as we have been doing our best to meet state and federal requirements for our not for profit status, pay the bills, and staying focused on giving.

Last week someone broke into our warehouse and set the containers on fire. The sprinkler system worked like a charm but damaged all the other equipment not in the containers. We lost over $60,000 worth of equipment that we were getting ready to give away or recycle. On top of this, because of a paperwork mix up we were insured at our headquarters but not the warehouse. What a blow! All last week I have been feeling like someone has just come along and sucked the life out of me. My business partner who’s been at this for over seven years now was really devastated and demoralized. Through all of this, I had a rough week at my new job traveling all over IL and WI. Not to mention the need of my family and the ministry!

Nonetheless, I have good news! God has not brought me this far to leave me now. Through all of this I still see the goodness of the Lord! What man meant for evil, God will use for his glory! I praise him anyway! I am faced with a difficult situation. I know God will help us through this. He will not leave us! He will not forsake us. He will make a way through the sea of obstructions. He will help us around the mountains of difficulty. He will not allow the enemy of destruction to destroy the vision he has for us! For greater is He that is within me than he that is within the world.

I don’t think I have to worry about God leaving me in the time of my distress. First Samuel 12:22 says, “For the Lord will not forsake His people…” Joshua 1:5 says, “I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Even Paul realized that God would not leave nor forsake him when he said, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted but not forsaken, cast down, but not destroyed.” 2 Cor. 4:8-9 Look how far God has brought you my friend! Nothing shall be able to separate me from the love of God. Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.

I know that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. What a blessed assurance! I can go on with life knowing that God is with me, no matter what may come my way. That means that even though I walk through the very shadow of death, He is with me. His rod and His staff will comfort me! No, He hasn’t left you today either! It may feel like He has, but be rest assured He is right there beside you, walking every step of the way. There may be times when you see just one set of footprints in the sands of life, but be rest assured those are the times when He has picked you up and is carrying you through those hard times.

Sometimes all God needs is a praise! Praise him before the fire, in the fire, and when the fire has passed! GOD IS GOOD! We will recover, as the clean up has already begun. But through it all God is with me! Have a blessed week with the Lord! In Jesus’ name! AMEN!

By: Elder Michael L. Hargett
Copyright 2009 © MinTech, Inc.

WHAT CAN $100 BUY?” July 6, 2009

2009-08-06T05:59:00.001-05:00

1 Corinthians 15:58:
58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

I was talking with my sister Angela from New Jersey last week and she shared a testimony with me. She was telling she was gaining a greater understanding of living with Christ. A young man who cuts her grass did not have the proper tools and lawn mower. Having these things would probably increase his business. She spotted a very good mower on sale for a $100.00 so she got it for him. After giving it to him, he began to call her and ask “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

My sister was so proud to see her seeding in this young man grow. Perhaps she set him on the path to building what can become a multi-million dollar business. Nonetheless, she met a physical need and the young man is better off for it. But as a Pastor I also wanted her not to miss the ministry with this young man. He is now tuned in and receptive to her because of her kindness and seeding into him. I suggested that she buy him a bible and invite him to church and bible study with her. Whereas the physical need has been met and he is well on his way of building a career for himself. She must not miss this opportunity to save his life.

She was so excited to hear that! We began to praise God together and I know she put that into action. My point is that often times we as witnesses to Christ forget that people have a physical (natural) need as well as a spiritual need. Often times we miss one or the other. The key is to be tuned into both and meet both. I believe that this young man will grow in Christ because someone took the time to invest in him. How often do we preach to people to pray and go to church but never address their natural needs? How can a homeless person who is hungry and cold ever listen to your testimony about fasting and praying when they have not eaten in days. It will fall in deaf ears.

This is why giving offerings to the church is so important. Your offerings helps those who are in need so that their physical needs can be met and therefore they will be receptive to receiving God’s word. On a more personal note, just look around you this week and find a ministry, organization, family or person that you can seed into and see what God will do for you! To my sister Angela, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. Have a blessed week! In Jesus’ name! AMEN.

Reflections on My Navy Retirement June 29, 2009

2009-08-06T05:54:00.003-05:00

I would be lost this morning without giving God thanks for the many blessings that he has bestowed upon me. Thank you to all of you that were able to attend my retirement from the Navy. Words cannot do justice to the depth of my gratitude for making such a monumental effort just to see me say goodbye to the Navy. God continues to bless me, as on Last Friday I had the opportunity to begin a new chapter in my life. Yes, this was a day that the Lord has made, I rejoiced and was glad in it. The word says that no eyes have seen no ears have heard what God has for those who love him.

Seasons come and go, yet God’s presence is forever faithful. No moment from the past can cloud the vision that God has for us right now. With God all things are possible and we must trust in God to guide us into a new beginnings. And Yes, even after the Navy. I must first share our dreams and goals with God in prayer, and then led by his divine wisdom. This is why I center myself in the presence of God in moments like this.

God will provide all that I will ever need to live the life that he has designed for me. We all are free to learn, we are free to teach, we are free to love and to be loved. We are free to live meaningful lives and to add meaning to the lives of others that they may see the light that God has placed in each of us.

God’s love, mercy, and power has no limitation. God will open a greater understanding to His power and presence.

There is nothing in all creation that exists outside the presence of God. There is nothing that can separate you from the love of God. God is ever worthy of our trust. God is ever worthy of our Love. God is ever worthy of our Praise. God is unchanging and He’s uncompromising. The God I serve does not know the words failure, recession, unemployment, or terminal or disappointment. His promises will always be kept and He will always stand true to His word. Have a blessed week, as I get use to civilian life! In Jesus’ name… AMEN!

By: Elder Michael L. Hargett

HAPPY FATHERS DAY June 22, 2009

2009-08-06T05:48:00.002-05:00

Isaiah 46:3-4
Listen to me...you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you

I found this illustration for Father’s Day. It is the story of Derek Redmond, a star runner in the 1992 Olympics.

Derek was competing for the medal in the 400 meter race. Less than half-way through, he ripped a hamstring muscle and fell to the ground in agony. While the rest of the runners moved past him, Derek managed to get to his feet and began struggling to move forward.

Then something caught the attention of the television cameras. Jim, his father, ran past security and onto the race track. At first Derek shrugged him away, saying, "I'm going to finish the race." Jim said to his son, "We've started everything together. We'll finish this together."
He put his arm around his son and held him as they crossed the finish line together. The crowd erupted into thunderous applause; it has become a classic moment in sports.

This story reminds me of the many times I fell short and the Father have picked me up and carried me through. Whenever, you look back at the sands in life and see only one set of foot prints know that Jesus has picked you up and carried you through.

This Father’s Day reminds me that as Fathers we are more than just a child’s daddy. Being a Father is much more than paying child support. Our children need to know, believe, and understand that when they stumble and fall or fail. As their fathers we will be there to pick them up and carry them in the physical as Jesus will carry them through in the spirit. But our children will never see this if we are not standing in the place that God has ordained for us to have.
Men our challenge is to take our rightful place in the home that God always intended u to have. He would have not given Jesus an earthly father if he had not decided that he too needed a father to guide and direct him.

It is a challenge to all fathers to recognize the profound influence they have on their children. Psychotherapists today are saying that both parents are vitally important to the stable development of their children - the mother's input is invaluable in the formative pre-adolescent years but the father's most important influence is at adolescence. In pre-industrial cultures fathers worked alongside their sons and taught them their trade. The father led the adolescent son into manhood and the book titled 'Absent Fathers Lost Sons' addresses this issue. Adolescent daughters long to hear from their fathers that they are beautiful and loved. In fact a girl's choice of partner and satisfaction in marriage is often directly related to the relationship she had with her father.

Men stand up and be FATHERS! HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! AMEN.

By: Elder Michael L. Hargett
Copyright 2008 © MinTech, Inc.

ON LEVEL GROUND

2009-05-08T07:24:00.005-05:00

“ON LEVEL GROUND”

MONDAY, MAY 04, 2009

Psalm 27:11

"Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path."

Ever fell like life is just an up hill battle? Do you feel like you are always climbing and clawing your way up to where you want to be? Perhaps you should take a moment and allow God to get you there. Allow God to teach you His way through His word. God teaches us to be more in his light through his word. It levels the hills and valleys. Better yet! It levels the playing field. Understanding God’s word gives you an inner strength and confidence that gives strength in the face of adversity. You will continue to face challenges but the in a different light! God will lead you on a level path in every aspect of your life. In your finances, in your relationships, in your employment, in your prayer life… Everything!

How does one study God’s word? I always encourage people to read Matthew and John in the New Testament first. It puts things in proper prospective and gets you started. However, there is no one way to study the bible. But get with a known member of the clergy that can answer your questions. Attend Sunday School and Bible Studies with your church. Here at my home Friday night is Pizza and Bible night. We play games and discuss the bible. This builds confidence in my children to know the word. It is a part of their life and routine. You will see a change in your life and the way you think about life as you grow in the word of the Lord. Through Jesus your thoughts will become more level and your problems will be easier to deal with when you are looking at them through the light. Have a great week! In the name of Jesus. AMEN!

STANDING IN LINE AT WAL-MART

2009-05-08T07:14:00.002-05:00

“STANDING IN LINE AT WAL-MART”
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2009

Hebrews 10:23-25

²³Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) ²⁴And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: ²⁵Not 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.

The other day while standing in line at Wal-Mart God sent me a message through three cashiers. I was in line waiting to pay for my order and observed them engaged in a casual conversation. Cashier A invited Cashiers B and C out to a comedy club on a Sunday evening. This is what they said…

Cashier A: “Hey, I have some passes to a Comedy Club on Sunday evening do you all want to join me?”

Cashier B: “I am off that day!”

Cashier C: “Oh I can’t go… You guys will be drinking.”

Cashier B: “You do not have to drink! We will not be drinking.”

Cashier A: “You can’t drink anyway! You’re pregnant.”

Cashier C: “I don’t want to be bothered by a bunch of crazy men anyway.”

Cashier B: “This is a girl’s night out.”

Cashier C: “I have nothing to wear.”

Cashier A: “I’ll get you a new top.”

Cashier C: “I have to work that day, I do not get off until 7.”

Cashier A: “Perfect it starts at 8.”

Cashier C: “I do not have transportation.”

Cashier A: “I’ll pick you up from here.”

Cashier C: “I do not have a baby sitter for my kids.”

Cashier B: “I’ll hook you up! You can use my baby sitter.”

Cashier C: “I do not know. I would need to change.”

Cashier A: “I am getting you a new top, just clean up and change at my house.”

Cashier B: “You need some time to yourself come on girl, go!”

Cashier C: “I don’t know!”

Cashier A: “You need this come on and go.”

Cashier B: “Girl come on go, I got you!”

Cashier C: “O.K. I will go.”

As I approached Cashier B to pay for my groceries, the spirit of the Lord moved me to comment: “If church folk worked as hard to get people to come to church, as your friend did to get her to go out Sunday, all the churches would be full every Sunday and not just on holidays.” We all agreed. I went on to explain that I was not condemning or criticizing their conversation but as I was considering my ways and looking at what effort I put into getting folk to come to church. Normally, I would ask and when given an excuse, I would just accept it and move on.

Nonetheless, these young ladies showed me that it takes an effort on my part to get someone to come to church that may not be inclined to do so. They inspired me not to accept excuses and offer alternatives. When someone I invite says “I cannot come to church because I do not have a ride.” Then I should offer to pick them up. When someone I invite says “I cannot come to church because I do not have anything to wear.” Then I should offer them outfit. When someone I invite says, “I cannot come to church because I do not wait to be around a bunch of crazy church folk.” Then, I should offer to sit with them. When someone I invite says “I cannot come to church because I have to work on Sundays.” Then I should offer alternative services (Bible Study, Mid-Week Service, or a Sunday Evening Service). When someone I invite says, “I cannot come to church because I need someone to watch my kids” Then I should offer to watch their kids. People do not have to change what they are doing to come to the house of the Lord. They should come as they are and allow God to change them from the inside out.

People are in need of something greater than what they can ever gain from the world, yet we as so called Christians back down and accept excuses from our family and friends when it comes to them coming out and getting a word. Well, God used these young ladies to inspired me to do more evangelizing and to work harder on getting folk to go to church! Oh yes, I invited them all to church! Now who are you going to invite? Have a blessed week! In Jesus' name, AMEN!

By: Elder Michael L. Hargett

Associate Minister

Peace of God Outreach Ministries

Pastors and Overseers Drs. Gary and Patricia Stern

Answer To A Question

2009-05-08T07:11:00.001-05:00

Monday, April 20, 2009

JOHN 20: 15 – 30

¹⁵Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. ¹⁶Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. ¹⁷Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. ¹⁸Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the LORD, and that he had spoken these things unto her. ¹⁹Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. ²⁰And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD. ²¹Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. ²²And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: ²³Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. ²⁴But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. ²⁵The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the LORD. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. ²⁶And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. ²⁷Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. ²⁸And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God. ²⁹Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. ³⁰And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book, ³¹But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Monday Morning Meditations is an interactive process. I encourage each of you to submit your comments, questions and testimonies. I will share them as the Lord leads me. This is not about what I think! I encourage each of you to read the word of God daily and to pray daily and if you have questions send the to me via email or the website and I will answer them. I have two great Pastors that is always ready to teach and guide me as well. Peace of God Outreach Ministries has a full compliment of ministers and clergy and if I can not find the answer, I know where to go to get assistance. You can also use the telephone numbers below for prayer request and questions as well. If I get enough questions and/or testimonies, I may even get a few read over the radio and you can tune in a hear your answers live. The main focus for this ministry is to lead people to Jesus who is the Light of the world!

Here is a recent question and correspondence from Sister Lillian of Newark, New Jersey:

Sister Lillian: Pastor Hargett, “Something just had me a little puzzled. WHY WOULD'NT JESUS LET MARY AND THE OTHER WOMEN THAT CAME TO THE TOMB TOUCH HIM WHEN HE ROSE? HOWEVER, WHEN HE CAME AMONGEST THE DISCIPLES HE WANTED THEM TO TOUCH HIM TOO PROVE IT WAS HIM?”

Pastor Hargett: “Sister Lillian this is a great Question! Let's look at the scripture you are referring too. John 20:15-31 In verse 17 the bible says "Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God." Jesus explained it to her. He had not ascended (or went to the Father) at the time Mary saw him. Furthermore it was because of her faith that he revealed himself to her first. (See my comments from last week) In a natural human response she probably went to hug and embrace him but he had not ascended to the father at that time.

But look at what happens next in the text from John 20:20 “20And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD.” They too saw the Lord and yet they did not attempt to embrace him. Was this lack of embrace a symbol of doubt or a lack of faith? Why did Jesus have to show them his wounds? We hear and we see Jesus' goodness and still we doubt (Again, see my comments from last week). We look for answers everywhere but from the living word of God. Many of us are still looking for the wounds on Jesus.

As we continue with John 20:24 - 27 “24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the LORD. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.” Some time has passed. Eight to ten days have went by and Jesus had plenty of time to ascend into Heaven and be with God and then return to complete his work. Mary was first to see Jesus and was not allowed to touch him because he had not yet ascended. But more importantly, her faith was greater than that of the disciples and there was no need for the human embrace. She did not have to touch or feel or even see Jesus to believe what was already there. Now let us close this out... John 20:28 - 31 28And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God. “29Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. 30And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: ³¹But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. “

Notice how much a Christian may lose by not regularly attending church with other of God’s people. Thomas was not at the first meeting. The Bible does not say why or where Thomas was, but the Brother could have missed his blessing of seeing the Savior. Nevertheless, notice how kind and merciful God is to the slow to believe, the sincere doubter. When a man doubts after proper evidence, God calls it folly and foolishness. But to the sincere doubter, the Lord says, "be not faithless but believing"

In closing let me point out that it is not because she was a woman that she could not touch Jesus. He had not ascended to the Father at that time. She was the first to see him! Besides, there was no need for her to touch him because her faith had already placed her where she needed to be, in the Garden. But check this out... The most significant point of the scripture we covered today is the fact that Mary saw Jesus first in the Garden. It was in the first garden with another question, asked of another woman, and as a result sin was brought into the world. (See Gen. 3) Now this woman was weeping, in another garden. Sin began and was defeated in a Garden! Think of the tears through the years. Tears that would have never been a part of life if there had been no sin. MY GOD! Even Jesus wept - shortest verse in the Bible. Here Jesus stands on resurrection ground and asks, "Why weepest thou?" He did not take away the tears but he was there as an answer to her tears. He will not take away your tears yet but he is the answer to the reason for our tears. Mary was the first to see Jesus because she had a greater faith and a greater love than the others. And because of this she was the first called to preach the resurrection of the savior! Jesus is standing ready today to take away your tears if you would just trust in him as Mary did. Have a blessed week! In Jesus' name AMEN!

THE FIRST SEVEN WORDS OF JESUS

2009-05-08T07:04:00.001-05:00

“THE FIRST SEVEN WORDS OF JESUS”
MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2009

JOHN 20: 15 – 30

The Resurrection of Christ was the miracle of all miracles. Yesterday was Easter and churches around the world celebrated the Risen Savior! From these services we heard the cry of forgiveness as Jesus said, "Father forgive them, they know not what they do." We heard the cry of salvation as Jesus told the penitent thief that "Today thou shalt be with me in paradise." We heard the cry of provision spoken concerning Mary and John. We heard the cry of desertion as Jesus asked, "My God, My God why hast thou forsaken me?" We Heard the cry of suffering as Jesus said, "I thirst." And We Heard the cry of victory! When Jesus shouted… "IT IS FINISHED!" There are many sermons and books on the last seven words of Jesus on the Cross. These words explain the purpose of the cross and the character of Christ. But this week I want to you to think about this event again because as there were seven last words of Jesus and each were significant, I believe that much followed beyond the grave. From which, explains what the Resurrection has done for us and what the Resurrection has to offer us. The seven first words of Jesus thus gives a message from God to all the World beyond the grave. The seven first words of Jesus gives a message from God to the Church. The first seven words of Jesus gives a message from God to his people. The Seven First Words of Jesus...

1. “WOMAN WHY WEEPEST THOU” (Vs. 15) The first word of Christ after the Resurrection is to a woman in a garden. I wonder if there is not some symbolism here. It was in the first garden with another question asked that a woman was questioned and as a result sin was brought into the world.

2. “MARY” (Vs. 16) Jesus called Mary by name. Christ knows his disciples individually. He called Thomas who was a doubter at this time but still a disciple by name and Jesus is calling you! Are you listening to what God is saying? Jesus knew people in the resurrection and so will we. (See I John 3:2) Moses and Elijah knew Christ and each other on the Mt. of Transfiguration. I believe we will know each other in heaven. Our relationship to each other will be different than here on earth but we will know. Those who hear the Lord and love the Lord the most get the greater blessing. The disciples loved but it seems by her actions that she loved Jesus more and had the blessing of meeting him first.

3. “GO TELL MY BRETHREN” (Vs. 17) Mary! Yes, a woman had the message of the Resurrection. The Resurrection gives us a message to tell to the world. It is a message that sin had been paid at the cross. It is a message that we have a hope beyond the grave. It is a message of a resurrection for us one day and a great reunion with Jesus. Mary had a message for the disciples - then they had a message for the world. We have a message too! The cross gives us a message. The resurrection gives us the authority and validates the message and the Holy Spirit gives us the power to deliver it. Now are we going to tell it?

4. “PEACE BE UNTO YOU“ (Vs. 19 – 21) Jesus gives us the promise of peace. The peace with God and the peace of God in our lives. We need to be searching for peace and not blame. Searching for peace and not fault. Searching for peace and not rebuke... Sin takes away peace. Without Peace all you’ll have a Troubled heart. Without Peace you’ll have troubled circumstances. Without Peace you’ll have a trouble due to the consequence of sin. There is no peace to be found in the world without Jesus. Without peace all you will find is war, fear, troubles, and death but you will never any peace with out Jesus in your life.

5. “AS MY FATHER HATH SENT ME SO SEND I YOU; RECEIVE YE THE HOLY GHOST”

(Vs. 21 – 23) Here is the call to service and the power to serve. There is a job to be done for the Lord. That is the reason he has left us here instead of taking us all home to heaven immediately after conversion. We are powerless without Him. He puts his power inside us through the Holy Spirit. The Cross gives us the message - The Resurrection gives us Authority and the Holy Spirit gives us the power. (See Rom.1:1-5)

6. “REACH HITHER...BE NOT FAITHLESS BUT BELIEVING” (Vs. 27) This is a word to doubting Thomas. Many folk are just like Thomas today. But notice several things here; Notice how much a Christian may lose out by not regularly attending church. (Compare Vs. 24 and Vs. 26) Furthermore, there is no account in the bible as to where Thomas was or what he was doing but the brother was (MIB) missing in getting his blessings. However, notice how kind and merciful God is to the show the sincere doubter His truth. When someone doubts after proper evidence, God calls it folly and foolishness. But to the sincere doubter, the Lord says, "be not faithless but believing!” Thomas was there at the second meeting and JESUS CAME! Jesus is always there when you need him even in the midst of your doubts.

7. “BLESSED ARE THEY THAT HAVE NOT SEEN AND YET HAVE BELIEVED” (Vs. 29) This is a word for us today. He is speaking of us. We are saved by faith! (Eph.2:8 – 9) We are to walk by faith and not by sight (Rom.3:24) Faith brings blessings! Faith brings power! And faith brings us closer to God. Mary lost the Lord in vs. 13 --- but she found him because of her faith and because of the resurrection and his love. My question this week is… What are you looking at and who are you looking to? You should be looking to the hills from which your help comes. If you are looking to anything other than Jesus - you are looking in the all the wrong places. You are blocking the way for Jesus to help you and put you over. You need to ask the savior to help you. You need to ask Jesus to comfort you! You need to ask Jesus to strengthen you! You need to ask Jesus to keep you! I know that Jesus will carry you through! Just look for the one set footprints in the sand! Jesus’ presence in your life - gives you life! Jesus’ presence in your life - brings joy in the midst of you sorrows! Jesus’ presence in your life - brings you strength in the midst of your weakness! Jesus’ presence in your life - brings you living water in the midst of your draught. Jesus’ presence in your life - brings you heavenly manna the midst of your famine! Jesus’ presence in your life - brings you spiritual wealth the midst of your financial poverty! Jesus’ presence in your life - brings you love, grace and mercy in the midst of a crude mean world! Brothers and sisters I here to tell you that nothing compares to the presence of Jesus in your life.

How do I know that Christ is risen? What proof do I have to give? First of all He rescued me from sin’s dark prison & I began to live. How do I know He left the tomb That Easter long ago? I met him at the dawn’s fresh bloom and life is all aglow. How do I know he gained for me? Well I have access to Heaven’s door? Christ’s work in me is guarantee of life forevermore. How do I know that Christ still lives? He has given me rich blessings to impart! His abundant grace, love and peace he gives me as he lives within my heart. The resurrection proves Jesus Lives! Have a blessed resurrection week! In Jesus’ name! AMEN!

Adapted By: Elder Michael L. Hargett

Associate Minister

Peace of God Outreach Ministries

Pastors and Overseers Drs. Gary and Patricia Stern

SUNDAY IS COMING!

2009-05-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

“SUNDAY IS COMING”
GOOD FRIDAY
April 10, 2009

Luke 24:1-5 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?

It's Friday. Jesus is arrested in the garden where He was praying. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. The disciples are hiding and Peter's denying that he knows the Lord. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is standing before the high priest of Israel, silent as a lamb before the slaughter. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is beaten, mocked, and spit upon. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Those Roman soldiers are flogging our Lord with a leather scourge that has bits of bones and glass and metal, tearing at his flesh. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. The Son of man stands firm as they press the crown of thorns down into his brow. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. See Him walking to Calvary, the blood dripping from His body. See the cross crashing down on His back as He stumbles beneath the load. It's Friday; but Sunday's a coming.

It's Friday. See those Roman soldiers driving the nails into the feet and hands of my Lord. Hear my Jesus cry, "Father, forgive them." It's Friday; but Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, bloody and dying. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. The sky grows dark, the earth begins to tremble, and He who knew no sin became sin for us. Holy God who will not abide with sin pours out His wrath on that perfect sacrificial lamb who cries out, "My God, My God. Why hast thou forsaken me?" What a horrible cry. But Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. And at the moment of Jesus' death, the veil of the Temple that separates sinful man from Holy God was torn from the top to the bottom because Sunday's coming.

It's Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, heaven is weeping and hell is partying. But that's because it's

Friday, and they don't know it, but Sunday's a coming.

And on that horrible day 2000 years ago, Jesus the Christ, the Lord of glory, the only begotten Son of God, the only perfect man died on the cross of Calvary. Satan thought that he had won the victory. Surely he had destroyed the Son of God. Finally he had disproved the prophecy God had uttered in the Garden and the one who was to crush his head had been destroyed. But that was Friday. Oh Jesus! Sweat Jesus! Sunday is coming!

Now it's Sunday. And just about dawn on that first day of the week, there was a great earthquake. But that wasn't the only thing that was shaking because now it's Sunday. And the angel of the Lord is coming down out of heaven and rolling the stone away from the door of the tomb. Yes, it's Sunday, and the angel of the Lord is sitting on that stone and the guards posted at the tomb to keep the body from disappearing were shaking in their boots because it's Sunday, and the lamb that was silent before the slaughter is now the resurrected lion from the tribe of Judah, for He is not here, the angel says. He is risen indeed.

It's Sunday, and the crucified/resurrected Christ has defeated death, hell, sin and the grave. It's Sunday. And now everything has changed. It's the age of grace, God's grace poured out on all who would look to that crucified lamb of Calvary. Grace freely given to all who would believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary was buried and rose again. Sunday is Coming!

It's Good Friday! But Sunday's a Coming!

Adapted By: Elder Michael L. Hargett

Associate Minister

Peace of God Outreach Ministries

Pastors and Overseers Drs. Gary and Patricia Stern