When ordering and arranging our conduct in the church, first of all we out to pray ... as we ought.

While there were grave consequences to Israel's complaining, God demonstrated amazing grace toward His people.

Saul was the greatest enemy of the cause of Christ; however, when confronted by the grace of God in Jesus Christ, his name was changed to Paul and his life was transformed. Paul experienced the total transformation of a sinner saved by God's grace.

It is good to be in need, for then we can experience God's provision, appreciate God's glory, and know God's Messiah.

1 Timothy gives us God's guidelines for order in God's house, but before Paull addresses any practical matters, he targets the theological issues -- first things first.

An Idolatry Test: - An idolatry-free Christian heart is guarded by contentment, flowing from commitment - An idolatry-free Christian heart is guarded by sacrifice, flowing from contentment 3 benefits to those who pass the idolatry test: - eternal fruit v17 - God's faithful provision of earthly needs v19 - ultimate glory and fulfillment of God-given purpose for life v20

As we begin a new year full of hopes and dreams and ambitions and aspirations and good intentions, we must take heed to HOW we build, lest we lean or even topple to our own destruction.

The four themes of Advent are hope, peace, joy, and love. The greatest of these is love.

Jesus is our peace!

A realization of the holiness of God enables us and compels us to serve Him.