The Arkansas Traveler

CONSECRATION FOR EASTER

Joshua 3:1-13; I Timothy 4:11-13

INTRO: Some groups observe "Lent". That is 40 days leading up to Easter used as a time of renewing commitment to God. Though we may not have the rituals, the idea is a good one.

CONSECRATE YOURSELVES (Joshua 3:5)

   Joshua called the people to prepare for crossing the Jordan River and claiming their promised land. It was a call to:

            Repentance,

            Forgiveness,

            Dedication

A GODLY LIFESTYLE (I Timothy 4:12)

   Paul gives a list of the essentials of the Godly life as one follows the Lord: Be a godly example:

            In speech,

            In conduct,

            In love

            In faith - vs. worry

            In purity

RENEWED FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD

            Prayer

            Bible Study (Listen to God)

            Ministry

   All of this is possible trough Jesus Christ.  Only through Jesus can we draw close to God. Only God is able to forgive us as we repent and turn toward Him with our hearts and our lives.

=============

Pastor Fred D. Kerr, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

FredKerr@frontiernet.net

March 9, 2008

Dialog welcome.