1400 Troy Road, Collinsville, Illinois 62234
618-667-6708
secretary@ctcofc.net

I remember when a man who later became my brother-in-law returned home from POW camp in North Korea. The entire city rejoiced. A huge parade was held in his honor and he received many awards and gifts.

Spiritually, Satan has taken many hostages. Peter, speaking of false teachers, recorded, They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption (2 Peter 2:19)ESV. Paul, too, writing to Timothy, wrote of those who had been snared by the devil as being captured by him to do his will (2 Tim. 2:26) ESV.

Brothers and sisters, as children of God who have been released from the guilt of our sins by the blood of Jesus the Christ through baptism (1 Peter 3:21), we have every spiritual reason to rejoice. 

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me — practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.  Phil 4:4-9 ESV 

As I was leaving a facility, an older lady was walking in. She walked with a four pronged cane. She moved slowly. She was having difficulty with each step. Yet, I noticed a smile on her face. As I approached her, I smiled and said, “Good afternoon, Ma’am. How are you today?” At that, her smile widened and she said, “Wonderful. Just wonderful, and thank you for asking.” 

Contentment is an attitude that is developed. There may be many factors that contribute to it, but as Christians, we should be able to find contentment under any circumstance because of Christ. 

...for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.  
Phil 4:11-13 ESV 

Have a great week. Find contentment as you live in Christ this week. Look to Him everyday

TLM

Sermon Outlines

For your consideration: Printable PDF Version