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“It ain’t easy”
Everyone understands the meaning of the words of our title, though many English teachers may cringe at the use of the word “ain’t”. It means, “It is not easy”. But, that leaves us with the question, “what is not easy?” We realize that many are the preachers telling us how easy it is to get to heaven. However, the Bible tells us that it may not be as easy as some seem to make it out to be. Let’s consider the difficultly involved. Jesus said,...
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Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritans’s Purse.
Area churches strive to reach out through Operation Christmas Child
It is hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us. In that light, Samaritans’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Ministry is kicking off in full force at area churches. Two local churches are expanding this ministry by serving as regional dropoff locations. Both Grove Park Baptist Church, located at 609 N.E. Blvd., Clinton and Unity Presbyterian Church, located at 11551 N.C. Hwy 50 S., Newton Grove, have volunteered to serve as ...
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Don’t let the devil plant his seeds in our heart
Do you believe there are traps that catch and make us fall? This story stirred while fishing at Topsail with James. Baiting hooks and waiting patiently for the thrill of reeling in a fish taught me lessons about the road of life. Those fish were targets of our traps as they swam along ocean’s highway. Under the sea, creatures of all kinds, (created by God) live and look out for traps in their paradise packed with predators. Fishing fever br...
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The book
Nearly every home has at least one Bible found within. It is said to be the most read book ever to be written. The word Bible comes from the Greek word “biblos” which means “The Book”. However, when one considers the Bible, it is actually a book made up of sixty-six books. It is divided into two major divisions, the Old Testament and the New Testament. One can further divide it into categories of books such as history, law, prophecy and such....
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Under God’s grace
Romans 6:14 says “for sin shall not have dominion over you; for yea are not under the law, but under grace.” Oh there is so much to be thankful for from God, but if I had to place one thing above everything else it would be his grace towards us. I thank God today for his amazing grace towards me when I was lost in sin. I believe some Christians don’t fully understand the grace of God. If I had time and space, I could preach about it for wee...
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Let God use your differences for his glory
The signs are in our valley of decisions. Oftentimes, we allow our emotions to take the driver’s seat to our destinies. It may seem impossible, but you can control your action in the most extreme situations. You do not have to put up a fight — just listen and hear the answer since it is clear. It is calling you. Do not reside in the land of settling and complacency. Make happiness your homestead, allow patience to be your guide, and God you...
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A love for prayer
When you boil it down, life is really about one thing: love. Stop and consider that statement as you look around for a moment. Television shows and movies, books and magazines—they all seem to agree that people today are looking for a lasting, fulfilling love. Yet beneath the surface of day-to-day living, folks everywhere are lonely and fear they always will be. They’re shopping for groceries, commuting to work, and even attending church, w...
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Gospel singing provided by a variety of groups will be available during Saturday's Unity in the Community activities at Union Elementary School on U.S. 421 South. (Courtesy photo)
Unity in the Community growing
It has been said that it only takes a spark to get a fire going, and so it is with the now annual Unity in the Community event. In its sixth year, Unity in the Community organizers are hoping to continue to watch the event spread its fire as it moves to a new location. This year’s event will be held Saturday, Nov. 3, from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., at Union Elementary School, located on U.S. 421 South. “We began small in the Harrells communi...
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Don’t put off making things right with the Lord
Does the Lord’s Prayer inspire humbleness and obedience as it honors God when you recite it? Living and believing the power in that prayer keeps us close to Christ. How many times have we said the words of His kingdom coming and His will being done on earth as it is in heaven without honestly believing what we say. Jesus’ model prayer keeps us in tune with the Great I Am. Are you remembering times when you and your family said this prayer? ...
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Terms for becoming a Christian
In the Bible, often we find more than one term used for the same thing. For instance, in our age we use the term “Christians” to designate those who are followers of Christ. Yet, the word “Christian” is only used three times in the entire New Testament. More often used are the terms, “the body of Christ” and “believers”. Yet, all three terms are in reference to the same people. When different terms are used, mostly it is to put emphasis on a ...
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An Everyday Praise
Psalm 145:2 says “Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.” I want to let you know, saints of God, that every day that you are alive is a blessing from the Lord. It gives you a right to bless the name of Jesus because he has been good to you. The devil has stolen your joy, peace and praise through all sorts of things. I want you to know that your praise and joy should only be in Jesus who says “he will ne...
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The certain ones: Not forsaken, chosen for purpose
Making our own decisions in life is a healthy. Walking on the path of the unknown, we see a woman who is overwhelmed with her strong emotions. Some emotions displayed included confusion, doubt, anger and hurt. She is blindsided by the direction she was walking. Moreover, I admire her courage to move on, despite not fully understanding the course her life was taking. She can be a representative to us. Assuredly, these certain ones are not an...
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With a big smile on her face, Joanne Murphy states that she is truly blessed by God. Despite being diagnosed with brain and lung cancer in July, Murphy has declared herself healthy following brain surgery and is feeling good as a result of God's gift to her. (Billy Todd/Sampson Independent)
Blessed by God
Imagine going to the doctor for a routine checkup and being told everything is fine. Then, two weeks later, you are asking your daughter to take you to the doctor because you feel so fatigued and ill you just cannot make it. This is how the story of 59-year-old Joanne Murphy transpired. “I had just had my customary checkup and felt everything was fine,” Murphy said during a recent interview. “Then about two weeks later, I started feeling so...
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Forgiving opens spaces in our hearts
Do you believe by forgiving we release and open a space in our hearts for something wonderful to grow? I’ve seen amazing blessings grow in my life and believe they sprouted when I forgave. This truth becomes sweeter and stronger the longer I live. God has burdened my heart to write stories that show the importance of forgiveness. Sharing personal (not easy to do) and Biblical stories of forgiveness reminds me (and you I pray) to forgive and f...
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Rebellion is as witchcraft
Just a couple of weeks ago we used the account of Saul and his disobedience in the matter of destroying Amalek as found in I Samuel, chapter fifteen. Today we wish to use the same text to note a number of important lessons that we should apply concerning our obedience to God. Though we have not been commanded to go and destroy a nation as did Saul, Paul did say that these things were written for our learning (Rom. 15:4). Samuel said to Saul, ...
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God knows it all, not us
Proverbs 19:21 says “There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the lord, that shall stand.” Have you ever been around a person who thinks they know it all? You try to give them advice, and yet they refuse to listen, instead they go and do it their way. Some Christians people are the world’s worst for thinking they know everything there is to know about this journey with Jesus. Just because they have preached a few...
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Prayer, not politics
The future of this nation is not in the hands of the politicians. So, no matter what political candidates you like or don’t like, or what party you may support, that should be good news to you right now. There isn’t a politician anywhere who is wise enough to guide this country safely through the challenges and threats it is facing these days. Only God can do it. And it is prayer, not politics, that brings His power and wisdom on the scene. ...
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Gospel concert at Salemburg Baptist Trinity Laymen will perform southern gospel music at 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 4 at Salemburg Baptist Church, 300 N. Main St., Salemburg. They have been singing together for 26 years. All of them are active members of Trinity Baptist Church in Raleigh. They have recorded four CD’s, one of which is a Christmas CD. Singers include: Bill Gard, Harry McDonald, Ray Broughton, and Salemburg’s own Billy Tyndall. Accompanists are:Art Melvin and Barbara Bowen. A love offering will be accepted. For more information, please contact C.A. Royal Jr. at 910-525-4496.
Gospel concert at Salemburg Baptist
Courtesy photo Trinity Laymen will perform southern gospel music at 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 4 at Salemburg Baptist Church, 300 N. Main St., Salemburg. They have been singing together for 26 years. All of them are active members of Trinity Baptist Church in Raleigh. They have recorded four CD’s, one of which is a Christmas CD. Singers include: Bill Gard, Harry McDonald, Ray Broughton, and Salemburg’s own Billy Tyndall. Accompanists are:Art Melv...
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What words do you live by?
What words do you live by? You, like me, probably have special sayings, verses, and phrases that give comfort and direction on your journey. Last week, I shared how reading the book of James, along with one of my students, refreshed my appetite for living per God’s instructions. James’ words were reminders to: listen and obey, love all people, have faith and do good works, control the things I say, seek true wisdom, give myself wholly to God,...
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Clement Baptist Church pastor Dr. James E. Dees, Jr. looks over a photo of the commemorative plate being offered for the 125th anniversary celebration. (Doug Clark/Sampson Independent)
Clement Baptist Church prepping for 125th celebration
Church members at Clement Baptist Church have been planning their 125th Anniversary celebration for over a year now, and they still have more planning to do, according to pastor Dr. James E. Dees, Jr. “This is our 125th year celebration, it is actually called quasquicentennial,” noted Dees during a recent interview. “We have had members of the fellowship who volunteered to serve on our planning committee have been planning this celebration ...
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Ross receives Man of Year Award On Sept. 16, the Men’s Fellowship of Robert’s Grove Church presented the Man of the Year award to Eddie Ross. Gary Faircloth presented a plaque to Ross for his dedication and service to the Men’s Fellowship. Robert’s Grove is located in the Spivey’s Corner community near Midway Middle School. The pastor is the Rev. Fred Baker. (Courtesy photo)
Ross receives Man of Year Award
Courtesy photo On Sept. 16, the Men’s Fellowship of Robert’s Grove Church presented the Man of the Year award to Eddie Ross. Gary Faircloth presented a plaque to Ross for his dedication and service to the Men’s Fellowship. Robert’s Grove is located in the Spivey’s Corner community near Midway Middle School. The pastor is the Rev. Fred Baker.
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What did Job lose?
Disquieted moments, although they do not feel good, they have a purpose. If we search the Bible and study the life of King David, we will discover why he wrote these poetic words. The soul is a combination of your emotions that we house or transfer our emotions from within our hearts and minds. Trials of the world can make a person bitter, despondent or stronger. I hope you choose the latter. Each individual chooses how to handle their trials...
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Top Christian Songs
1. Me Without You by tobyMac 2. Forgiveness by Matthew West 3. 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) by Matt Redman 4. Awesome by Pastor Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago 5. Need You Now (How Many Times) by Plumb 6. I Need a Miracle by Third Day 7. Losing by Tenth Avenue North 8. Good To Be Alive by Jason Gray 9. Throw the Roses by The Protest 10. Redeemed by Big Daddy Weave
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Peppers guest at Union Grove’s homecoming Sunday
The annual homecoming will be held at the Union Grove Church of Christ Disciples of Christ, Clinton, Sunday, Oct. 21, beginning at 11 a.m. The theme is “Bringing Families Home.” The pastor, elder Dr. Timothy Peppers, will bring the message and the church choir will provide the music. Dinner will be served at 1 p.m. At 4 p.m., the guest speaker will be elder Herman Vaughn, choir and congregation of the United Friendship Church of Christ in Roc...
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Tony Porter
‘A Call To Men” an inspiring event for families
Billy Todd Staff Writer This week Faith and Family feature is a bit different. We are focusing on the family aspect of our weekly feature section, and this event is current to our community. “A Call To Men” is a program that is being offered by Phi Theta Kappa, Sampson Community College and The Bee Hive Thrift Stores, on behalf of U Care (a partner agency of the United Way of Sampson County.” This event is directed to youth leaders, men...
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