This is the first Hello From Maple Grove for the 2005-2006 school year. Feel free to forward or pass these e-mails on to any that you would like too. You can find an archive of Hello From Maple Grove e-mails at www.maplegrovechurch.net by clicking on the link Hello From Maple Grove. I pray that in some way these e-mails will turn hearts and minds to God. May He be praised and glorified! -Shan

"But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
-James 4: 6

A Better Christian?

It seems that some churches try to out do other churches. Members of 'their' church are 'better Christians' because they follow such and rule, or wear such and such clothing, etc... We do this as individuals as well. "I'm better than so and so." We often pretend that we don't have problems in our lives when in fact we do. Or we have a hard time accepting people who do have struggles. It bothers me to see how much ''competition' there can be within the church to be the 'best Christian.' What does it mean to be the best Christian? Often times I feel as though I must be the worst Christian. When I have committed that same sin for the 'thousandth' time. Or when I let my mind be filled with doubt or worries. When I allow myself to be consumed with 'self' and my ego, etc...the list can go on and on. There are many days when I have wondered if I am a Christian at all?

But something always pulls me back to Christ. The grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus! It does not matter how many times you fall, get up! If you fall again...then get up again. How do I get up? By getting down on my knees in prayer! Asking God for forgiveness and praising Jesus for the sacrifice that He willingly made for me. By accepting the grace, mercy, and forgiveness that can only come from our Lord. By praying for the strength and courage to become the person that God has created me to be. The great evangelist Paul understood what it is like to struggle with sin. He writes about this struggle in Romans 7: 7-25. Get your Bible out and read those verses. "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from the body of death? Thanks be to God- through Jesus Christ our Lord! (Romans 7: 24-25). How can you become a better Christian? By accepting the grace that comes through Jesus and praying continuously to God to help you become the person that He has created you to be. Have faith in Him and never give up! Amen.

Take a moment and encourage someone this week!

I pray that all is well with you. Please let me know if you have any prayer concerns or praises. Have a great week and remember to smile :), the Lord loves you!

In Christ,

Shan D. Hartsough

"But growing the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever! Amen."
-2nd Peter 3: 18

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