Revitalize Your Church

I preached on Joshua 2 today, telling the story of Rahab . 1. She had a Hard Life Bad decisions Jericho prostitute Baal worship -- child sacrifice, rampant immorality rejection unworthy, unloved, unaccepted 2. She made a Hard Choice The decision: turn in the spies (be a "good citizen") or hide the spies (be "God's citizen") You can never make the necessary change if you are unwilling to make the hard decision. 3. She reaped a Harvest of Righteousness Her hard decision blessed her family (see Josh. 6) Her mother, father, brothers and sisters. She left a legacy -- married Salmon -- baby was Boaz -- husband of Ruth -- grandparents of David! If Rahab had not made the hard decision, we would not have most of the Psalms! Hebrews 11 -- Hall of Fame -- Rahab is there! Lineage of Jesus -- Matthew 1 -- Rahab is there too! We had full house -- about 700 people -- with several out of town visitors.

To The Hayward Wesleyan Church Family: This Sunday, we'll be starting a new sermon series called "Mighty Faith: A Journey Through Joshua" The series will continue through August 24. I know you will be encouraged and inspired by the life of this great hero of faith. In preparation for worship, I encourage you to read Joshua 1. You can view it online by clicking here. Compare Joshua 1 with Deuteronomy 31:1-8 : 1. What themes do you see intertwined in these passages? 2. How many times is the phrase "strong and courageous" used? Why? 3. There was a "water parting" on each side of their 40 year trek in the wilderness. ( Exodus 14 and Joshua 3 ) Joshua was one of only two men who experienced both of them. What was similar about the two water partings? What was different? 4. What transitions are you facing that require strength and courage? 5. Has God worked miracles in your life before? Do you need a new miracle now? We are planning to sing: "The Battle...