18th Sunday after Pentecost: Date: October 12, 2014
– THE SERMON: Proverbs 16:1-9
Theme: Tapping into God’s Way of Thinking
I. When Making Plans for the Future
II. When Seeking Righteousness
III. When Pursuing Success
( Pastor Theodore Barthels )
Bulletin: Read Bulletin
Sermon: Read Sermon
THE ORDER OF SERVICE: p. 5 (38:1-3)
HYMNS: 294; 366:1-5; 424; 283
THE EPISTLE LESSON: James 3:13-18
In the wisdom that comes from the Lord we gain meekness, and service to others. This wisdom which is pure and gentle and peaceable is the fruit of righteousness. The “wisdom” that promotes self and envy is not from above but from the world. Envy and self-seeking produces confusion and evil. May God deliver us from such false wisdom found in the world and in our sinful flesh.
THE GOSPEL LESSON: Luke 10:38-42
What is important to the Lord for us to be accomplishing in our lives is often not the same as what we feel is pressing for us to get done. Both Mary and Martha felt a strong desire to serve the Lord, but Martha in her desire to serve was missing out on that which the Lord wanted most for her. Mary sat at Jesus feet listening to His Word. May we always realize that the Lord first desires the hearing of His Word, for this treasure cannot be taken away from us. Then the Lord will gladly receive the labors of our hands and our offerings.