Wow…those words from Pastor Bill really hit home! If you’re a person who ENJOYS judging and criticizing people, something is off. This isn’t the heart of God. In fact, later on in this message, Pastor Bill calls it SATANIC!?!?!?!?! That’s strong language. But, you’ll also learn that this falls right under the character of Satan himself. Today, Pastor Bill reminds you just how important it is to NOT be like Job’s friends, who only judged and criticized…instead, be a person who LOVINGLY points people to the better way of following Jesus.

When we think about the words “fearing God,”…what things come to mind? If you’re like most people, you might have an image of a giant heavenly being sitting in the clouds, raining down lightning bolts on all the disobedient. And while we DO know that part of God’s character is judgment, we also know that God is loving. And as Pastor Bill just shared a moment ago…we ALL need to have a healthy fear of God that keeps the balance of His love AND His ability to discipline us IF we need it.

Sometimes we get caught up in what we call righteous indignation. We make excuses for why it’s ok for us to be upset with others or to wish bad things upon them. But, as Pastor Bill reminds us today, you were once the same. You were lost in your sins with no way to save yourself, until the Truth found you and turned your life around. What you should want for everyone is for them to know Jesus. Not for them to be tormented in Hell. Pray for them, seek them out, and lead them to the only path that saves. 

Don’t you think that sometimes, God looks at our lives and just shakes his head? He will never reject us, but there are times when He has the right to be upset with us. Today, Pastor Bill wonders why Christian marriages and other marriages have nearly the same divorce rate. How can that be? Remember that God created you, He created your spouse, He created the institution of marriage, and He gave you the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. What more do you need to make your marriage a success? 

Job lived during a time before Jesus and His redeeming work on the cross. He had no idea what was to come regarding his religion and belief in God. It was hard to understand why the evildoers of the world seemed to be prospering. Today, Pastor Bill reminds us that we now know the righteous will win, Heaven is real, and there is much more to life than just what we see on this planet. Thanks to the Bible and Jesus Christ, we know that evil will be punished and Christians will be rewarded.     

When it comes to living a life pleasing to God, we’re just like young children. We can all relate to that time when we just knew we were in deep trouble. Maybe your mom yelled at you using your middle name, or the teacher gave you “the look.” Sometimes it takes a healthy fear of authority to keep you on the straight and narrow. Today, Pastor Bill reminds you that God operates the same way. He’ll keep you on track with discipline if you’re stubborn enough to disobey. Are you currently walking in obedience?

Some of us put reading the Bible on a list of chores rather than counting it as something we’re excited to do. The Bible is our guidepost for life, and it’s God’s Word, breathed out and written down to bless us. How can this be on a list of chores? In today’s message, Pastor Bill reminds us that Job considered God’s Word more important than food. Is this true for you? Would you give up a meal and read the Bible instead? It’s not about giving up food, but it is about prioritizing the importance of reading the scriptures.  

Do you have a friend who’s been part of your life for a long time? These types of friendships stand the test of time because you know you can count on them even when you haven’t seen them in a while. You know that at the drop of a hat, this friend will be at your side. That’s how your relationship with God should be. In today’s message, Pastor Bill reminds you that in times when you don’t necessarily feel close to God, you can still trust that He’s there. He’s promised never to leave you nor forsake you! 

I’m someone who despises confrontation. Even the thought of having to bring something up to someone gives me a tingly feeling inside. Today, Pastor Bill says that if you must confront a brother or sister, you must do it in private. Man, I feel convicted by that! Often, I’d rather bring it to an outside person instead of going straight to the person! Today, you’re reminded that gossip never helps anyone, but if you go straight to the person in a loving manner, you’re doing all you can to glorify the Lord.

When a child does something good, what happens to the parent’s heart? They become happy and proud of their kids’ accomplishments! In today’s message, Pastor Bill says Christians can live in a way that’s pleasing to the Lord. Just like a parent who’s proud of their child, if you live in a way that glorifies the Lord, He’ll be proud. To do that, you must be in the Word and listen to the Lord’s commands. Read scripture and live in a way that’s honoring and pleasing the Lord! You won’t regret it!