Nehemiah 4:1-15. Sometimes, we experience opposition when we are doing the wrong thing…or even when we’re doing the right thing! Nehemiah faced serious opposition simply because he was doing what God had called him to do. What is the proper approach to handling opposition and what can we learn from it?
Live in the Moment — Bob Whitaker (10 Aug 2014)
The phrase “live in the moment” is often associated with impulsive or even thoughtless behavior; in the context of this passage, it speaks of Nehemiah’s spiritual alertness and readiness to act when God provides an opportunity. Are you ready to live that way – in the moment?
Preparation for a Mission — Bob Whitaker (3 Aug 2014)
Nehemiah 1:1-11. Pastor Bob is back in the pulpit this week to begin a three-part series, Lessons from the Exile, that will wrap up our summer series, Characters of the Bible. Consider with us how important it was for Nehemiah to prepare for a mission through an honest prayer and what we can take away from this as we together wait for the coming of the new age.
Three Hotshots — Dan Waugh (27 Jul 2014)
A look at the wisdom and faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and the power of God to save, from Daniel 3:1-18. As provincial officials over Babylon, they faced daily choices between faith and compromise. Where in your life are your faith and courage being tested?
That One Is Mine — Jim Goodson (20 Jul 2014)
Our own Jim Goodson took the pulpit this week to touch on themes of grace, identification, and the humility of Christ in Luke 2:1-14.
Esther: An Unlikely Hero — John Mangrum (13 Jul 2014)
Esther 2:8-17. God is not mentioned in the book of Esther, but he seems to be weaving in his story, nevertheless. Esther and her people were in the lowest social class of this era of the Persian empire, yet she was eventually chosen to be queen. Esther’s access to the king, whom she approaches with the request to save her people, may have been the last part in God’s plan to redeem his people from impending annihilation by Haman. Whether or not we choose to play our part, God is writing his story.
Watch the video summary of the book of Esther.
The Apple Can Fall Far from the Tree — Dan Waugh (6 July 2014)
2 Kings 18:1-12. King Hezekiah of Judah chose to dismantle the idol worship that Ahaz, his father, had set up. Hezekiah’s son, Manasseh, undid what his father had done and led the people of Judah astray into idol worship again, leading to their overthrow by the Assyrians. Both of these kings forgot for a time to humble themselves before the Lord, and that sin had consequences. Neither king was perfect, but they point to the One who was.
Some Trust in Chariots — Rob Girvin (29 Jun 2014)
Rob Girvin, ECC’s Youth Director, carries forward our summer message series with the story of Deborah in Judges 4 & 5. It’s easy in times of trial to forget God’s promises and trust our own abilities and resources. This story gives us encouragement and instruction in trusting God amidst the chaos of life.
Faith or Idolatry, Your Choice – Bob Whitaker (22 June 2014)
Joshua 24:14-28
Pastor Bob reminds us that the challenge to ancient Israel wasn’t an easy one – let go of the gods you can see and touch and follow in faith the invisible God.
Waiting on God – Bob Whitaker (June 15, 2014)
Ruth 1:1-18.
Pastor Bob looks into the great story of Ruth and Naomi, looking at three key characters: Ruth, Naomi, and God.