Thank you for visiting First Congregational Church of Buena Park on YouTube! We want to encourage you in Jesus, our great Savior! We're a Bible-based Congregational church that loves meeting, greeting, and helping others in Jesus' name, and accepting other believers as part of our Christian family. It's our desire to minister to adults, youth, and families through our services, Bible studies, and programs, and provide opportunities for God's people to use their gifts to serve others and receive from others (1 Pet. 4:10) as we grow together as Christian family! We would love to meet you and worship with you. May the Lord bless you with a deep and abiding sense of Jesus' kindness, grace, and acceptance.

First Congregational Church of Buena Park

Customer Service Representatives have a stake in helping people resolve their service issues. It gets tough sometimes, especially when people are upset, but when you know the ways you’re able to assist, know where to direct people when you’re unable to do so, and take responsibility for your calling, it can be rewarding! Since every person is created in God’s image and every believer in Jesus as part of our family, we have a special responsibility to help and bless others. Here are “Three Ways to Bless Others” from Paul’s words to the Galatians (Gal. 6:1-5) that will promote positive spiritual growth for ourselves and others as we gain a sense of satisfaction in our service to the Lord! 
 
RESTORE OTHERS 
 
Restore others (Gal. 6:1). Paul encouraged the Galatians to gently “restore” those who are “caught in any trespass,” or are guilty of breaking God’s commandments, understanding their own weaknesses, in order to help others (Gal. 6:1, NASB). He knew that we’re all frail, that we all sin, and that we need the gentle help and blessing of other believers in our Christian lives. 
 
Restore others. We remember that Jesus “died for the ungodly” “while we were yet sinners” (Rom. 5:6-8, esp. vv. 6-8, NASB) and rose again from the dead! He loved us when we were going the wrong way, forgives us despite our sins, and is with us in the middle of internal struggles that we don’t always completely understand. It doesn’t help to turn a blind eye to destructive behavior, excuse that behavior, or lift up our noses like we’re so much better. Come alongside someone in humility. Talk to him about what he’s doing. Remind him of Jesus’ deep, forgiving love, and be willing to walk beside him in the way of goodness! 
 
LISTEN TO OTHERS 
 
Listen to others (Gal. 6:2). Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments are to love God and “LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF” (Matt. 22: 34-40, esp. v. 39, NASB). Paul encouraged the Galatians to “bear” the “burdens” of each other, and in doing so “fulfill” Christ’s law of neighborly love (Gal. 6:2, NASB). Seeking to listen and understand is often the first step to helping someone. 
 
Listen to others. People are on-edge today, I know. We’ve struggled through COVID, isolated ourselves, have experienced loss, and many are concerned about inflation and other economic and societal issues. Don’t be afraid. Be willing to call, visit, and focus on others during this time. Lend your ear. Pray for a need. Show Jesus’ kindness. Encourage with every fiber of your being as you reach out in kindness, knowing your Savior is with you and for you! 
 
DON’T DESPISE OTHERS 
 
Don’t despise others (Gal. 6:3-5). Rather than boast over others, Paul encouraged each of the Galatians to “examine his own work,” have a sense of gladness in his service, and to “bear his own load” (Gal. 6:3-5, esp. v. 4-5, NASB). He knew that our minds go in the wrong direction when we attempt to look at ourselves for the purpose of putting ourselves above others. 
 
Don’t despise others but know that God’s gifted you. There have been many things that I just didn’t “get.” I wanted to be competent in ways I just wasn’t, and I didn’t know why. We’re tempted to be jealous of others’ talents and gifts when we forget that the Lord has blessed each of us with good things. As a Christian, you’re “saved” by God’s “grace,” are God’s “workmanship,” and you’re fashioned to do the good that the Lord has “prepared” specifically for you (Eph. 2:8-10, esp. v. 8, 10, NASB). Be glad for others and about their talents and gifts as you learn to enjoy what the Lord’s given you. Mature spiritually, and the Lord will lead you into what He has for you. 
 
BLESS OTHERS 
 
Bless others! Restore others, knowing that Jesus loves and accepts us, as we direct them in the way of goodness. Listen to others, knowing you’re serving God as you take the time to reach out and encourage. Don’t despise others, being glad for blessing in their lives as you know the Lord’s gifted you as well. As we do these things, we will assist others in their spiritual growth for their good, grow spiritually ourselves, and gain a deep sense of satisfaction and Christian contentment in our service to the Lord! #fccbp 
 
WORK CITED 
 
“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.”

Customer Service Representatives have a stake in helping people resolve their service issues. It gets tough sometimes, especially when people are upset, but when you know the ways you’re able to assist, know where to direct people when you’re unable to do so, and take responsibility for your calling, it can be rewarding! Since every person is created in God’s image and every believer in Jesus as part of our family, we have a special responsibility to help and bless others. Here are “Three Ways to Bless Others” from Paul’s words to the Galatians (Gal. 6:1-5) that will promote positive spiritual growth for ourselves and others as we gain a sense of satisfaction in our service to the Lord!

RESTORE OTHERS

Restore others (Gal. 6:1). Paul encouraged the Galatians to gently “restore” those who are “caught in any trespass,” or are guilty of breaking God’s commandments, understanding their own weaknesses, in order to help others (Gal. 6:1, NASB). He knew that we’re all frail, that we all sin,

2022 Live Stream 10/02, "Three Ways to Bless Others" (Gal. 6:1-5)

We sometimes mistakenly think that the Holy Spirit is only close to those who make earthshattering claims, not realizing that He’s at work in each of our lives as believers. The color for Pentecost Sunday is red, signifying the Holy Spirit’s work among the early Galilean Christians at a time when visitors to Jerusalem heard them speaking in their own different languages (Acts 2:1-13). And yet, because you’re extremely important to the Lord right here and now, He wants you to know that He’s at work in your life today to bless and help you. Here are “Three Blessings of the Holy Spirit” from Jesus’ words about the Holy Spirit being sent here for us (John 14:16-21) that I pray will encourage you to have confidence in the Lord and in His work in your life! 
 
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS ALWAYS WITH US 
 
The Holy Spirit is always with us (John 14:16-17). Jesus said that “the Father” would send us “another Helper” to always be present with us, even “forever,” and that He would be related to us in such a way that He would “be in [us]” (John 14:16-17, NASB). The phrase “another Helper” in Greek means a person similar to Jesus who defends, counsels, advocates for, comforts, and consoles (John 14:16, NASB; Vine, 200). The Lord wants us to know that He’s present with each of us to bless us. 
 
Know that the Holy Spirit is always with you in your life. Jesus cares about you so much that He gave you the Holy Spirit to fulfill this wonderful role, even in your darkest times. He brings you the Lord’s comfort in hardship — to know that everything’s going to be okay. He gives you encouragement in the way to go — to get past your feelings and through your hardships. He helps you in ways of which you aren’t always aware — knowing your disposition, experiences, and inner struggles, and He’s able to move you along in the right way. 
 
THE HOLY SPIRIT DISCLOSES JESUS TO US 
 
The Holy Spirit discloses Jesus to us (John 14:18-20). Jesus said that He wouldn’t “leave [us] as orphans” but that we would “see [Him],” that we would understand His relationship with “[His] Father,” and that through the Holy Spirit we would know that He’s “in [us]” (John 14:18-20, NASB). The Holy Spirit is present and reminds us of the presence of our Savior! 
 
Know that the Holy Spirit discloses Jesus to you. He gave you new life and helped you see Jesus’ identity as your Savior, who died to pay for your sins to free you from condemnation and to rise again from the dead to assure you of eternal life. He helped you trust Him rather than your own works to find assurance of forgiveness. He gives you a deep and abiding sense that Jesus accepts you when you have feelings of guilt and shame. 
 
THE HOLY SPIRIT HELPS US ENJOY SERVING JESUS 
 
The Holy Spirit helps us enjoy serving Jesus (John 14:21). Jesus said that as His followers we have “[His] commandments,” that we show our love to Jesus by “keep[ing] them,” and He said that He would “disclose [Himself] to [us]” as we demonstrate our love to Him as our Savior (John 14:21, NASB). The Holy Spirit ignites love in our hearts for the Lord and for the things of the Lord in our lives and relationships. 
 
Know that the Holy Spirit helps you enjoy serving Jesus. As you internalize His love and demonstrate love by following Him, the Lord gives you joy in your service. You enjoy singing to Him and offering Him your praise. You enjoy your relationships with other believers that are built on Jesus as you use your gifts in serving others. And He gives you have a clear-sightedness about fulfilling your callings in life, giving you a sense of meaning and purpose in your relationships and even in seemingly mundane daily tasks. 
 
BE BLESSED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT 
 
Be blessed by the Holy Spirit in your life! Know that the Holy Spirit is always with you in your life, helping you in the most difficult of times. Know that the Holy Spirit discloses Jesus to you, giving you a sense of His love as your Savior. Know that the Holy Spirit helps you enjoy serving Jesus in singing to Him and fulfilling your callings in your relationships. As you know these things and trust the Lord in response, you will gain confidence in the Lord and know a life of blessing and encouragement as you fulfill His good purposes! #FCCBP 
 
WORKS CITED 
 
“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.” 
 
W. E. Vine, "An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words," One-Volume Ed, Forwards from F. F. Bruce and W. Graham Scroggie (Thomas Nelson Publishers: Nashville, NY, 1952).

We sometimes mistakenly think that the Holy Spirit is only close to those who make earthshattering claims, not realizing that He’s at work in each of our lives as believers. The color for Pentecost Sunday is red, signifying the Holy Spirit’s work among the early Galilean Christians at a time when visitors to Jerusalem heard them speaking in their own different languages (Acts 2:1-13). And yet, because you’re extremely important to the Lord right here and now, He wants you to know that He’s at work in your life today to bless and help you. Here are “Three Blessings of the Holy Spirit” from Jesus’ words about the Holy Spirit being sent here for us (John 14:16-21) that I pray will encourage you to have confidence in the Lord and in His work in your life!

THE HOLY SPIRIT IS ALWAYS WITH US

The Holy Spirit is always with us (John 14:16-17). Jesus said that “the Father” would send us “another Helper” to always be present with us, even “forever,” and that He would be related to us in such a 

2022 Live Stream 06/05, "Three Blessings of the Holy Spirit" (John 14:18-21)

Have you ever heard someone talk about an experience that seemed perfectly fine to you, but the person presents it as entirely negative? I know—It’s easy to point fingers when we think others aren’t grateful. The truth is, though, that I can think of many times when I was blind to the good things that I had in my life. One of the sad realities of our lives is that we don’t enjoy what we’ve been blessed with, and as believers, we have the blessing of the treasures of heaven! Here are “Three Things the Lord’s Done for You” from a church meeting encouraging liberty of conscience (Acts 15:13-20; see Acts 15:1-20) to encourage us to see God’s gifts and move forward with thankful hearts! 
 
THE LORD REDEEMED YOU 
 
The Lord redeemed you (Acts 15:13-15). The Lord had made a covenant with King David along with his descendants. James referred to them as David’s “tabernacle,” and although this tabernacle, or tent, was laid low because there was not one of his descendants on Israel’s throne, Jesus came as David’s son to rule on his throne and has made us the Lord’s tabernacle (Henry, 155). James said that “God first concerned Himself about taking from among the Gentiles a people for His name” (Acts 15:14, NASB). 
 
Know that the Lord’s redeemed you. God “concerned Himself about taking” you out the darkness to be with Him and “for” Him (Acts 15:13, NASB). The Lord’s brought us together through Jesus, our Savior. Jesus has become “our peace,” for He has reconciled us to each other and reconciled us to God (Eph. 2:11-14, esp. v. 14, NASB). He did what we couldn’t do for ourselves when He paid for our sins. Then, He rose again, and He promises us eternal life! Believed boldly, and know with every fiber of your being that Jesus died for you, and gain a deep sense that He loves, accepts, and forgives you! 
 
THE LORD DWELLS WITH YOU 
 
The Lord dwells with you (Acts 15:15-18). The Lord has rebuilt this “FALLEN” “TABERNACLE” from its “RUINS” and has “RESTORE[D]” it through Jesus, David’s greater son (Acts 15:15-18, esp. v. 16, NASB). And since you’re part of this tabernacle that belongs to the Lord, He dwells in you and is with you in your life. You and I aren’t God. We aren’t divine or part of the Godhead. God is distinct from us but has chosen to be with us in a special way. 
 
Know that the Lord dwells with you in your life. He’s the One who understands what others can’t and who’s with you in ways others aren’t and cannot be. The Lord is with you when you when you feel you’re abandoned and left behind. Jesus has “authority” over everything and everyone, and He said that He’s “with [us] always” (Matt. 28:18-20, esp. vv. 18, 20, NASB). Take Him at His Word and say, “I’m having a hard time now, but thank you for being with me. I trust You.” 
 
THE LORD’S PROMISED TO BE FOR YOU 
 
The Lord’s promised to be for you (Acts 15:18-19). The Lord didn’t decide to be for you in your life when you tried harder, did better, or attempted to clean up your act. James said that God made “THESE THINGS KNOWN” about His plan “FROM LONG AGO” (Acts 15:18-19, esp. v. 18, NASB). You’re important to God. And He determined to redeem, bless, and be for you for His glory and for your good. 
 
Know that the Lord is for you. We’re all affected by sin; none of us has met God’s standard of goodness. And the way we are on the inside and our life experiences shape each of us in ways we often don’t think about and don’t fully understand. The Lord knows where you’ve come from, and He’s “for” you for a good purpose—to get bless you. He’s for you to get you through as you rely on Him for your good. Paul said he was “content” regardless of his “circumstances” because he could get you through anything “through” the Lord’s strength (Phil. 4:10-13, esp. vv. 11, 13, NASB). 
 
SEE WHAT THE LORD’S DONE FOR YOU 
See what the Lord’s done for you! See that the Lord’s redeemed you and made peace between you and others. See that the Lord dwells with you and is with you no matter your feelings, struggles, and circumstances. See that the Lord’s for you and promises to see you through even the most difficult of circumstances. As you see these things, you will be encouraged and move forward with a thankful heart for your blessing! #FCCBP 
 
WORKS CITED 
 
“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.” 
 
Henry, Matthew, "Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible," Volume 6: Acts to Revelation, New Modern Edition (Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., 2000).

Have you ever heard someone talk about an experience that seemed perfectly fine to you, but the person presents it as entirely negative? I know—It’s easy to point fingers when we think others aren’t grateful. The truth is, though, that I can think of many times when I was blind to the good things that I had in my life. One of the sad realities of our lives is that we don’t enjoy what we’ve been blessed with, and as believers, we have the blessing of the treasures of heaven! Here are “Three Things the Lord’s Done for You” from a church meeting encouraging liberty of conscience (Acts 15:13-20; see Acts 15:1-20) to encourage us to see God’s gifts and move forward with thankful hearts!

THE LORD REDEEMED YOU

The Lord redeemed you (Acts 15:13-15). The Lord had made a covenant with King David along with his descendants. James referred to them as David’s “tabernacle,” and although this tabernacle, or tent, was laid low because there was not one of his descendants on Israel’s throne, Jesus ca

2022 Live Stream Clip from 05/22, "Three Things the Lord's Done for You" (Acts 15:13-20).

In God’s Providence, He brings people into our lives at just the right times for our good and for our blessing. We’re blessed as we remember those who helped us along the way, especially by the unique care of nurture of our mothers. Although we all leave the nest, we take our mothers’ love with us. This Mother’s Day we honor our mothers in helping lay this foundation. And as we think of the roles that we play in the lives of children, here are “Three Ways to Bless Children” from Jesus’ blessing of children (Matt. 19:13-15) that the Lord will use to help us build on a foundation of goodness in the lives of children. 
 
BRING CHILDREN TO JESUS 
 
Bring children to Jesus (Matt. 19:13). Matthew wrote that “some children were brought to” Jesus for prayer and blessing (Matt. 19:13, NASB). As Jesus’ name was spreading far and wide because of His miracles and teaching about God’s kingdom, some mothers and fathers had their eye on their children. “How my dear children need to know His blessing,” they thought to themselves. And they brought Him their children. 
 
Bring children to Jesus. Paul told the Thessalonians that he was “gentle among” them, “as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her…children” (1 Thess. 2:7, NASB). Part of our care is to tell our children about Jesus, who can forgive their sins and heal their wounds. We make mistakes as parents. What we have broken, we know that the Lord can mend. Tell them about Jesus’ death and resurrection to give them eternal life. Tell them about His friendship. Encourage them to know Jesus and gain a deep and abiding sense that He loves and accepts them. 
 
VALUE AND PRAY FOR CHILDREN 
 
Value and pray for children (Matt. 19:13-14). As people brought these children and “the disciples rebuked them,” Jesus wanted them with Him and said, “do not hinder them from coming to Me” (Matt. 19:13-14, NASB, NASB). Evidence of the Lord’s work is that “hearts” are turned toward “their children” (Mal. 4:5-6, esp. v. 6, NASB) rather than away from them. This world says that we’ll be happy if we prioritize ourselves, but the truth is we’re blessed as we care for others, including children. 
 
Value and pray for children in your life, maybe even some who aren’t your own. At my work there were some wonderful ladies who were like moms to the younger ladies at work. No matter where your children are in life, and no matter where others whom you know are, care for them. Bring them to God in prayer. Ask for His blessing upon them. Entrust them to His care by your words and actions. 
 
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN IN GOD’S KINGDOM 
 
Encourage children in God’s kingdom (Matt. 19:14-15). Jesus blessed these children and upheld them as members of God’s kingdom. He said, “for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” and left after taking the time to pronounce His blessing over them (Matt. 19:14-15, esp. v. 14, NASB). The Lord told Abraham that His covenant would include his “descendants after [him] throughout their generations…to be” Abraham’s God and the God of his “descendants” (Gen. 17:7, NASB). 
 
Encourage children in the Lord’s kingdom. It’s common for kids to seek to find an identity in many places and in many things. I thought I was chasing after who I really was when I was young—my true self—but I was just conforming to an image the culture presented to me. Encourage children to find their identity in Jesus and to know that they’re set apart for the His purposes. We shouldn’t think of some churches as for young people and some for older people. No matter how young or old, we want to have a place for your children and grandchildren here, serving alongside you and building a foundation of the Lord’s goodness in their lives so that they’ll find Christ’s encouragement and contentment. 
 
BLESS CHILDREN IN YOUR LIFE 
 
Bless children in your life! Bring children to Jesus and tell them about His forgiving and encouraging love. Value and pray for children to ask God’s blessing in their lives. Encourage children in God’s kingdom, to find their identity in Jesus and be with His people. As you do these things, they will be blessed and find contentment and direction in their lives, you will be blessed as you continue the work the Lord started through their mothers. #FCCBP 
 
WORK CITED 
 
"Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.”

In God’s Providence, He brings people into our lives at just the right times for our good and for our blessing. We’re blessed as we remember those who helped us along the way, especially by the unique care of nurture of our mothers. Although we all leave the nest, we take our mothers’ love with us. This Mother’s Day we honor our mothers in helping lay this foundation. And as we think of the roles that we play in the lives of children, here are “Three Ways to Bless Children” from Jesus’ blessing of children (Matt. 19:13-15) that the Lord will use to help us build on a foundation of goodness in the lives of children.

BRING CHILDREN TO JESUS

Bring children to Jesus (Matt. 19:13). Matthew wrote that “some children were brought to” Jesus for prayer and blessing (Matt. 19:13, NASB). As Jesus’ name was spreading far and wide because of His miracles and teaching about God’s kingdom, some mothers and fathers had their eye on their children. “How my dear children need to know His blessing,” th

2022 Live Stream 05/08,  "Three Ways to Bless Children" (Matt. 19:13-15)

I didn’t often talk to adults growing up. When it came to teachers, I was often afraid they’d find out I didn’t know what I was doing. And I also almost never approached my friends’ parents, adults who worked at the local Taco Bell and grocery store, and I almost never talked to the pastors of the church I attended either. To be honest, I wasn’t the most pleasant person to be around! Because people are so valuable and important, I began to develop a different attitude later in life. But It’s sad to me to think that some people have this attitude toward Jesus and would approach anyone but the Lord. Here’s “How to Approach Jesus” based on a blind man’s appeal to the Lord (Luke 18:35-43) that will encourage you to come to Him often and receive good things from His hand! 
 
ASK JESUS FOR HELP 
 
Ask Jesus for help (Luke 18:35-38). A blind man heard the commotion and was told that Jesus was coming. He had heard about Jesus’ compassion and power to heal. And he understood something important about Jesus’ identity. And so the man cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Luke 18:35-38, esp. v. 38, NASB; the NASB heading and Mark 10:46-52 reveals the man was called Bartimaeus). 
 
Ask Jesus for help in your life. You may have been written-off by this world and written-off by others. You may have been told that you’re not redeemable. An angel told Mary that her son would “be great,” would “be called the Son of the Most High,” and that He would have “the throne of His father David” (Luke 1:26-33, esp. v. 32, NASB). He came as the Messiah and died to pay for your sins on the cross. He rose again to assure you of eternal life. Ask Him for mercy, forgiveness, and help with whatever you’re going through in your life! 
 
DON’T LISTEN TO NAYSAYERS 
 
Don’t listen to naysayers (Luke 18:39). Some were ahead of others, going ahead of Jesus and the crowd. They may have thought of themselves as the leaders or the people “in charge.” And they took it upon themselves to monitor and control the situation, almost like security guards. They weren’t happy with this blind man’s request. And Luke wrote that although they “were sternly” trying to quiet him down, that “he kept crying out” for the Lord’s mercy “all the more” (Luke 18:39, NASB). 
 
Don’t let anyone turn you away from Jesus. People may say things against Jesus. They may say things against you. They may insult your intelligence or criticize your “tone” or worse when you’re out of step with the world. See Jesus for who He is. Turn toward Jesus rather than away from Him. Find solace and comfort in His friendship. Know that He accepts you and is with you even though others may leave you out to dry! 
 
KNOW JESUS LOVES AND CARES 
 
Know Jesus loves and cares (Luke 18:40-43). Jesus heard the man crying out. He knew the man’s condition and that he wasn’t able to come on his own. So Jesus asked people to assist him. Then Jesus asked what he wanted, and the man told Him that he wanted to see. Jesus granted his request, saying, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well” (Luke 18:40-43, esp. v. 42, NASB). 
 
Know Jesus loves and cares about you! Jesus knows you and your hardship. He understands everything you’ve been through. And He knows your every failing. The writer to the Hebrews encouraged the early Christians to come to Jesus as their high priest who would “sympathize” with every weakness (Heb. 4:14-16, esp. v. 15, NASB). Trust that He forgives you. Trust that He’s with you. Come to Him frequently with every need, every struggle, and with every temptation to receive His help and strength on the way! 
 
COME TO JESUS 
 
Come to Jesus and bring your life before Him! Ask Jesus for help in your life, for forgiveness and assistance with whatever you’re going through. Don’t listen to naysayers but take comfort that Jesus accepts you and is with you. Know Jesus loves you and cares about you deeply in your life. As you do these things, you will gain confidence in the Lord and be full of joy and delight as you glorify God! (Luke 18:42-43). #FCCBP 
 
WORK CITED 
 
“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.”

I didn’t often talk to adults growing up. When it came to teachers, I was often afraid they’d find out I didn’t know what I was doing. And I also almost never approached my friends’ parents, adults who worked at the local Taco Bell and grocery store, and I almost never talked to the pastors of the church I attended either. To be honest, I wasn’t the most pleasant person to be around! Because people are so valuable and important, I began to develop a different attitude later in life. But It’s sad to me to think that some people have this attitude toward Jesus and would approach anyone but the Lord. Here’s “How to Approach Jesus” based on a blind man’s appeal to the Lord (Luke 18:35-43) that will encourage you to come to Him often and receive good things from His hand!

ASK JESUS FOR HELP

Ask Jesus for help (Luke 18:35-38). A blind man heard the commotion and was told that Jesus was coming. He had heard about Jesus’ compassion and power to heal. And he understood something important abo

2022 Live Stream 04/03, "How to Approach Jesus" (Luke 18:35-43).

Have you ever seen an advertisement for a $10.00 psychic reading? The Lord wouldn’t want you to go to a psychic. And I can tell you that if you did, that psychic would try to get another ten, twenty, or thirty dollars out of you within a few minutes! The truth is that the Lord’s already revealed some of the most important things about your future, yet He hasn’t show you everything about tomorrow (see James 4:13-15). Here are “Three Keys for Christian Joy” from Paul’s words about life in heaven and on earth (Phil. 1:21-26) that will help you gain confidence in the Lord and the important things He’s called you to do for your blessing! 
 
TRUST GOD WITH YOUR FUTURE 
 
Trust God with your future (Phil. 1:21-22). Paul said that for him, “to live is Christ and to die is gain,” and said that he didn’t “know which to choose” between serving God in this life and dying to be with Him in the next (Phil. 1:21-22, NASB). Paul was content whether he lived or died. He knew heaven would be great! Yet, he trusted God with his future and knew that, whatever happened, that the Lord would be with him to bless him and to bless others through him. 
 
Trust God with your future and know that He has good in store for you! God hasn’t revealed some things about your future. But based on what He has revealed in Scripture, you don’t have to be afraid. Jesus purchased you when He died for you on the cross. He’s guaranteed that you will be happy and healthy in the next life. Be courageous! Trust Jesus with your eternity! And in this life, don’t try to control those things that are outside of your control. Don’t feel threatened by the unknowns of the future but trust pray to God. Trust God with your tomorrow. Know that He’s your Shepherd. Know that He’s with you. Know that He will guide you every step of the way. 
 
SERVE OTHERS AS LONG AS YOU'RE HERE 
 
Serve others as long as you’re here (Phil. 1:23-24). Paul said that in one sense, he would rather be in heaven with his Savior — “to depart and be with Christ” as the “better” option — but said that his service to the Philippians was “more necessary for” their wellbeing (Phil. 1:23-24, NASB). He knew that the Lord put him here to bless others, and despite everything else happening around him, he enjoyed using his gifts of teaching and encouraging people in Jesus Christ to bless, to help, and to build them up deep in their souls. 
 
Serve others as long as you’re here. Say kinds words to others. But them up in Jesus. Tell them about Jesus’ kindness and compassion. The Bible itself testifies to Jesus and His love (John 5:39-40). You might be the only person from whom your friend ever hears about Jesus. Be that person. Visit others. Enjoy the times you go out to lunch or for a walk with a friend, family member or neighbor. Think of how you can help and bless the people God’s brought into your life. Send a card, call someone on the phone, or share something God’s given you with someone else, whether it’s a physical item or a word of encouragement and blessing. 
 
TAKE JOY IN OTHERS' SERVICE 
 
Take joy in others’ service (Phil. 1:25-26). Paul said that he was “Convinced” that he would “remain and continue with” the Philippians for their “progress and joy,” which would well up in them to the praise and glory of Jesus (Phil. 1:25-26, esp. v. 25, NASB). Many say that after Paul got out of prison, he preached for 5 more years and was then murdered under Nero (Eyewitness Bible Series). Paul wanted to live because he took joy in their growth as Christians. He took joy in the good things they did to bless each other and glorify God. He knew that they would become more content and joyful as they followed the Lord in their lives, and he saw his own ministry as part of the process. 
 
Take joy in others as they serve the Lord in their lives. We shouldn’t be content to just “tisk” or shake our heads at people who are going the wrong way. Point them in the right way and come alongside them to go with them. Say good words to them to bless them. Take joy in the good things that you see people do, the things that show Jesus’ work in and through them, the things that you know will result in great blessing for their lives. 
 
HAVE JOY 
 
Have joy in your service to the Lord! Trust God with your future and know that He has good in store for you. Serve others as long as you’re here and enjoy being with people and helping them see Jesus’ love. Take joy in others as they serve the Lord in their lives, knowing that it’s for their blessing. As you do, you’ll gain confidence in the Lord and His work in your life for your good and your blessing! #FCCBP 
 
-- John Peters, Pastor 
 
WORKS CITED 
 
“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.” 
 
Eyewitness Bible Series, “Beyond Acts” (https://eyewitnessbible.org/acts/18-theophilus/).

Have you ever seen an advertisement for a $10.00 psychic reading? The Lord wouldn’t want you to go to a psychic. And I can tell you that if you did, that psychic would try to get another ten, twenty, or thirty dollars out of you within a few minutes! The truth is that the Lord’s already revealed some of the most important things about your future, yet He hasn’t show you everything about tomorrow (see James 4:13-15). Here are “Three Keys for Christian Joy” from Paul’s words about life in heaven and on earth (Phil. 1:21-26) that will help you gain confidence in the Lord and the important things He’s called you to do for your blessing!

TRUST GOD WITH YOUR FUTURE

Trust God with your future (Phil. 1:21-22). Paul said that for him, “to live is Christ and to die is gain,” and said that he didn’t “know which to choose” between serving God in this life and dying to be with Him in the next (Phil. 1:21-22, NASB). Paul was content whether he lived or died. He knew heaven would be great! Yet, he 

First Congregational Church of Buena Park Videos

2022 Live Stream 10/02, "Three Ways to Bless Others" (Gal. 6:1-5)

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2022 Live Stream Clip from 05/22, "Three Things the Lord's Done for You" (Acts 15:13-20).

2022 Live Stream 05/08, "Three Ways to Bless Children" (Matt. 19:13-15)

2022 Live Stream 04/03, "How to Approach Jesus" (Luke 18:35-43).

2021 Live Stream 11/7, "Three Keys for Christian Joy" (Phil. 1:21-26)

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First Congregational Church of Buena Park Videos

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2022 Live Stream 10/02, "Three Ways to Bless Others" (Gal. 6:1-5)

2022 Live Stream 06/05, "Three Blessings of the Holy Spirit" (John 14:18-21)

2022 Live Stream Clip from 05/22, "Three Things the Lord's Done for You" (Acts 15:13-20).

2022 Live Stream 05/08, "Three Ways to Bless Children" (Matt. 19:13-15)

2022 Live Stream 04/03, "How to Approach Jesus" (Luke 18:35-43).

2021 Live Stream 11/7, "Three Keys for Christian Joy" (Phil. 1:21-26)

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