Tag Archives: encouragement

“I AM”

Posted on December 13, 2017 by Don Merritt

“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” John 8:58 This verse comes at the end of a rather long discussion between Jesus and the Jewish leaders that began with the validity of His testimony, and moved to … Continue reading →

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Human Custom, Tradition and God’s Promises

Posted on December 12, 2017 by Don Merritt

Genesis 16 The Christmas Story would never be complete without an examination of the friction between human customs and traditions and the promises and ways of God. In our text, Sarai is getting old, yet she has never conceived a … Continue reading →

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The Night When God was Naked Before Man

Posted on December 12, 2017 by Don Merritt

I like nativity scenes; they are the one thing we see around us this time of year that actually have something to do with what we are supposed to be celebrating. Yet sadly, even most nativity scenes, whether sculpted or … Continue reading →

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God Makes a Covenant

Posted on December 11, 2017 by Don Merritt

Genesis 15:7-21 In this passage, the conversation of our last post continues, this time Abraham asks God how he can be sure that God will give him the land of Canaan, an amazing question all things considered. God’s reply is … Continue reading →

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It’s what you make of it

Posted on December 11, 2017 by Don Merritt

Let’s face it, we’re heading into a couple of weeks that can be challenging for most of us; we’re getting into crunch time. At my house, we have a thrill-packed week for sure: I’m double-booked tomorrow night, we have out … Continue reading →

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Sunday Sermon Notes: December 10, 2017

Posted on December 10, 2017 by Don Merritt

Title:  Joseph’s Story Text: Matthew 1:18-25 Joseph was betrothed to Mary, which in that place and time was a process of about a year in length. During that time, the couple was legally married, but their union could not be … Continue reading →

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Having a Candid Conversation

Posted on December 9, 2017 by Don Merritt

After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” But Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate … Continue reading →

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Abraham the Warrior

Posted on December 8, 2017 by Don Merritt

Genesis 14 Abram remained conscious of God’s promises; he remained in Canaan and prospered. Lot saw a financial advantage and left Canaan to live on the Jordan plain, taking up his headquarters in Sodom, a town filled with wickedness against … Continue reading →

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The Suffering Servant

Posted on December 8, 2017 by Don Merritt

Isaiah 53 In Isaiah 53, the prophet describes for us a servant who would be despised, rejected and die; with the result of saving many.  The poem here actually begins with verse 13 of the preceding chapter… See, my servant … Continue reading →

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Abram Reclaims the High Ground

Posted on December 7, 2017 by Don Merritt

Genesis 13 After leaving Egypt Abram and his party returned eventually to Canaan where they settled and tended to their herds of livestock; Abram became quite wealthy. After some time it became clear that the herds had grown to the … Continue reading →

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