March 28, 1999

"First Pure, then . ."
Teaching truth does not always bring peace. So the "Prince of peace" shockingly stated:
"Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did  not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter in-law against her  mother-in-law..." Matt. 10:34-35.

The apostles continually faced turmoil as a result of boldly teaching the truth. They were arrested (Acts 4:1-4), beaten (Acts 5:40-42), and charged with "upsetting the world" (Acts 17:6).

While peace may be disturbed when the truth is preached, truth is not to blame. He in whom there is "no truth" (Jn. 8:44) is constantly seeking every avenue to blind and prejudice men against its reception (2 Cor 4:4). Conflict is unpleasant and change may involve difficulty. Satan would persuade men truth is not worth it.

Peace, in the hearts of godly people, is a cherished possession and one that ranks high in the list of objectives, especially for teachers, James 3:1; 13-15; 4:1-2. But, as exalted as it must be, as desirable as it is, there is yet one thing that must outrank it:
"But the wisdom from above is FIRST PURE, THEN PEACEABLE..." Jas. 3:17.

srf

23 ...the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. 24 But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. (Ac20:23-24).
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Bible and TV Guide
On the table side by side, the Holy Bible and the TV Guide.

One is well worn but cherished with pride, not the Bible, but the TV Guide.

One is used daily to help people decide. No, it isn't the Bible, it's the TV Guide.

As pages are turned, what shall they see? Oh, what does it matter, turn on the TV.

Then confusion reigns, they can't all agree on what they shall watch on the old TV. So they open the book in which they confide. No, not the Bible, it's the TV Guide.

The Word of God is seldom read, maybe a verse e're they fall into bed.

Exhausted and sleepy and tired as can be, not from reading the BibleŠ.from watching TV.

So, then back to the table, side by side, is the Holy Bible and the TV Guide.

No time for prayer, no time for the Word, the plan of salvation is seldom heard.

Forgiveness of sin so full and free, is found in the Bible, not on TV.

Author Unknown (contributed by Glenda Wilson)

14 I have rejoiced in the way of Thy testimonies, As much as in all riches. 15 I will meditate on Thy precepts, And regard Thy ways. 16 I shall delight in Thy statutes; I shall not forget Thy word. (Ps. 119:14-16).
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News of Interest
Barbara Simpson's  surgery last Tuesday went well . . . Linda Hurst's surgery last Wednesday also went well . . . Roena Legg's tests last Tuesday turned up no serious problems . . . Linda Ottersbach was admitted to Kingwood Hospital last Monday with symptoms that pointed to kidney stones. Surgery was performed on Wednesday but no stones were found. Further tests were conducted . . . Jim Crain had a prostate biopsy last Wednesday. . . Phyliss Tuttle was involved in an automobile accident last week. She was not seriously injured . . . Gregg Hutson's father is to have cataract surgery. This one is particularly important because the surgery on the other eye did not do well . . . Lauren Hutson's uncle, Bill Castleman, had a hip replacement last Friday. This is the second time on the same hip . . . Zelma Bobbitt's brother contracted pneumonia . . . April is right around the corner. If you can assist in providing rides for Zelma, please sign up today . . . Dickie Tullos is showing progress in her recovery from her fall . . . Remember that after the evening assembly next week, April 4, the elders will meet with those men who will stay to discuss practical applications of the family study. The aim is to meet for about 30-40 minutes.
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Area Gospel Meetings
Mar. 27-31 - College Park - David Tant
Mar. 28-Apr. 2 - Eastside - Lawrence Kelly
Apr. 4-9 - House St., Alvin - Jimmy Stevens
For further information, see announcements in the foyer.
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SCHEDULED TO SERVE
Wednesday, March 31
Song Leader: Dwight Osteen

Sunday AM, April 4
Announcements:  Larry Legg
Song Leader: Boyd Hurst
First Prayer: Kris Emerson
Lord's Table:
Bread: Jim Hodges
Fruit of  the Vine: Mike Head
Contribution: Mark LaBurt
Assistant: Johnathan Bernard
Closing Prayer: Derek Huddleston

Sunday PM, April 4
Song Leader: Gary Tuttle
First Prayer: Mark Hargrove
Lord's Table:
Bread: John Knudsen
Fruit of the Vine: David Osteen
Contribution: Robert Rice
Closing Prayer: Boyd Hurst

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If you are a song leader, but know you will be unavailable, please notify Jim Crain. If you are scheduled to serve in any other capacity but cannot serve as scheduled, please notify Gregg Hutson.