Fellowship Hall

As we start a new year, so many make resolutions; such as, I'm going to be a better christian, more like Jesus, kinder, lose weight, stop smoking, quit drinking, etc.. We have good intentions but we are so prone to try to do what we can't in our selves  We need to look to Jesus, the  author and finisher of our faith. The thing is; before we start asking for this or that from Him, we need to ask Him to turn His searchlight on our hearts. My Mom, several months before she  went home to be with Jesus, asked God to turn his search light on her. She wanted to make sure she had everything right between her and Jesus. She asked me if there was anyone she might have hurt. King David was a man after God's own heart. The reason was that he had a soft heart toward God. He was quick to repent when he did the wrong thing. Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, Oh God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. He not only asked for God to search his heart but to lead him in the right path. Read Psalm 54 to see how David approached God in repentance, asking for restoration. When Jesus went up to heaven, he sent us the Holy Spirit to  be our helper, to convict of sin, to lead and comfort us. Everyone needs the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. He is our power and strength; our rest and refreshing, He anoints for service and witness. Even Jesus, as a man, accomplished everything through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is for everyone who is saved. You do not need the baptism to get to heaven , but it sure helps.