I learned this morning that John Macon is no longer with us. John is now at total rest with His Lord.
Rob
Storm Damage and Service
Highland Tribe, due to storm damage, we have no electricity at the church today. We will still hold services though. We will hold a version of breakfast, Life Class and hold a 1 hour chapel-style service from 11:00-12:00. Lunches will be packed to-go and given out as everyone dismisses at 12:00. There will be no children’s ministries today. Looking forward to seeing everyone despite this minor inconvenience!
Reflecting Back to Look Forward.
Highland Tribe,
As you know, we went through the book of Philippians last year. We meticulously covered the book, from start to finish. Tomorrow, I will be reflecting back on our series to help us move forward ‘in a manner that is worthy of the gospel of Christ.’ I rejoice over the chance to be together again, dining over God’s Word with you.
I love you,
Rob
Maintaining a Firm Grip on Wisdom!
Highland,
Just reflecting on one of our points from last week - walk in “wisdom that is from above.”
“Who is wise and has understanding among you? He should show his works by good conduct with wisdom’s gentleness. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t brag and deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. “For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.”
Lord, make us Gospel-Flavored!
Highland,
I am reading “Center Church”, by Tim Keller. He is describing Theological Vision and he says:
“Theological vision is a faithful restatement of the gospel with rich implications for life, ministry, and mission in a type of culture at a moment in history.”
Lord,
It is of Your doing and design that Highland is in this place, at this time. Bear Gospel-flavored fruit in us - that any and all who taste of You would see that You are good! Reap a harvest that You deem glorious and empower your harvesters with strength and stamina from Your Holy Spirit.
Rob
Psalm 111 - Just Wow!
Highland Fam,
I was going to just write about a portion of this Psalm. However, how can you pick from such a powerful Psalm! Highland, please drink deeply of this Biblical nourishment.
“Hallelujah
I will praise the Lord with all my heart
in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.
2 The Lord’s works are great,
studied by all who delight in them.
3 All that He does is splendid and majestic;
His righteousness endures forever.
4 He has caused His wonderful works to be remembered.
The Lord is gracious and compassionate.
5 He has provided food for those who fear Him;
He remembers His covenant forever.
6 He has shown His people the power of His works
by giving them the inheritance of the nations.
7 The works of His hands are truth and justice;
all His instructions are trustworthy.
8 They are established forever and ever,
enacted in truth and in what is right.
9 He has sent redemption to His people.
He has ordained His covenant forever.
His name is holy and awe-inspiring.
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow His instructions have good insight.
His praise endures forever.”
Lord,
May the works of Highland be in stride with your hands, which impart truth and justice. Discipline to be within us a heart that relies solely upon Your trustworthy instruction. Within our church-culture, create an atmosphere of compassion and grace; for these qualities flow from Your very nature.
Rob
Praying for our Pastor
Highland Family,
These passages were shared during our Communal Prayer today. They serve as direction as to how to pray for Rob.
David Culpepper Has Passed Away.
Highland Family,
We lost David Culpepper December 31st, 2019. His funeral was today, at 11am, at Kimbrell’s Funeral Home. His brother Joe Culpepper continues to attend Highland'; let us offer him our love and support.
Rob
Tomorrow: "Holding to Our Post."
Highland,
I rejoice over gathering with you so much! I love our time together more than you can know! As we gather, I come just as a cup filled. What pours out during our time in God’s Word tomorrow is simply my cup overflowing.
Here is part of that overflow for tomorrow:
“Wisdom calls out in the street;
she raises her voice in the public squares.
She cries out above the commotion;
she speaks at the entrance of the city gates:
“How long, foolish ones, will you love ignorance?
How long will you mockers enjoy mocking
and you fools hate knowledge?
If you respond to my warning,
then I will pour out my spirit on you
and teach you my words.”
Join us in a corporate declaration our Lord’s worth and wisdom.
I love you,
Rob
Highland, Let's Hold to our Post.
Part of my devotion:
“Wisdom calls out in the street;
she raises her voice in the public squares.
She cries out above the commotion;
she speaks at the entrance of the city gates:
“How long, foolish ones, will you love ignorance?
How long will you mockers enjoy mocking
and you fools hate knowledge?
If you respond to my warning,
then I will pour out my spirit on you
and teach you my words.”
My prayer for us, Highland:
Highland, let us continue to be heralds of the only good news our streets will ever hear - “Jesus saves sinners.” May we speak, with a gentle compassion in our voices, the piercing, eternal truths of God’s Word. Holy Spirit, invade and interrupt the commotion of our striving-streets. Cause a stillness to fall upon our busyness, allowing us to listen to Your voice and respond in repentance, humility and gratitude for Jesus’ salvation.
Rob