The pastor's thoughts for the week
Last week we looked at James 1:19-20,
"19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
The focus of my thoughts last week were on the need to be "swift to hear" and how we so often focus on controlling the tongue, which is very important, but listening and hearing first can be extremely beneficial to us in regard to saying the right words, in the right way, at the right time to someone who is telling you how they are feeling with their words, actions and demeanor.
I would like to add to last week's thoughts that in listening and hearing someone, we should always be praying for the discernment of the Holy Spirit over what the person is indicating to you by their words, actions and demeanor. If we proceed without clear discernment from the Lord, we could cause some greater issue in that person's life. You might be thinking, do I really have that kind of time to respond? It only takes a second to say, "Lord help me discern this and give me wisdom to speak your truth to this person."
James, led by the Holy Spirit, gives us such valuable information here in verse 19. James says be, "slow to speak." Often when we respond too quickly, the words come from the flesh and are of our worldly wisdom. Our words and/or actions can be reactionary when we respond too quickly. If we are not careful, the words won't be honoring to Jesus and His Word. How do we combat this? By prayer for discernment - this will slow the speech and allow time for the Holy Spirit to guide you and rebuke the flesh with its worldly wisdom. Brothers and sisters, I implore you to take heed to the recipe James has laid out before us! Slow down and pray before you open your mouth or take action in any way. Listen intently, respond with discernment!
"19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
The focus of my thoughts last week were on the need to be "swift to hear" and how we so often focus on controlling the tongue, which is very important, but listening and hearing first can be extremely beneficial to us in regard to saying the right words, in the right way, at the right time to someone who is telling you how they are feeling with their words, actions and demeanor.
I would like to add to last week's thoughts that in listening and hearing someone, we should always be praying for the discernment of the Holy Spirit over what the person is indicating to you by their words, actions and demeanor. If we proceed without clear discernment from the Lord, we could cause some greater issue in that person's life. You might be thinking, do I really have that kind of time to respond? It only takes a second to say, "Lord help me discern this and give me wisdom to speak your truth to this person."
James, led by the Holy Spirit, gives us such valuable information here in verse 19. James says be, "slow to speak." Often when we respond too quickly, the words come from the flesh and are of our worldly wisdom. Our words and/or actions can be reactionary when we respond too quickly. If we are not careful, the words won't be honoring to Jesus and His Word. How do we combat this? By prayer for discernment - this will slow the speech and allow time for the Holy Spirit to guide you and rebuke the flesh with its worldly wisdom. Brothers and sisters, I implore you to take heed to the recipe James has laid out before us! Slow down and pray before you open your mouth or take action in any way. Listen intently, respond with discernment!
God Bless You All,
Pastor Ray Renn
Pastor Ray Renn
special eventPastor Ray returns to the pulpit
as Guest Speaker at Lake Gaston Baptist August 13th, 2023 |
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worshipping women's tea
On Saturday, May 4, 2024, the ladies of Vaughan Baptist Church hosted a Worshipping Women’s Tea at the Littleton Volunteer Fire Department. Fifty-five ladies from the community attended, and it was a lovely time of fellowship, laughter, and hearing God‘s word from our guest speaker, Ms. Beverly Allen.
It was our 3rd Spring Tea and we look forward to having our 4th next year!
It was our 3rd Spring Tea and we look forward to having our 4th next year!
Check out the Photo Gallery page for pics from these other recent events!
Youth service weekend at camp grace |
Men's retreat at camp caraway |
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Make plans to visit usWe are located in the "metropolis" of Vaughan, NC
but our physical & mailing address is: 192 Eaton Ferry Rd, Macon, NC 27551 Office Phone: 252-586-0259 |