What Is This Thing Called Love? (Romans 12:9-13)

By: Bob Deffinbaugh
Introduction

Art Linkletter had a television program years ago on which he interviewed children. Out of the children’s mouths came many strange and humorous words which Art captured in his book entitled, Kids Say the Darndest Things. I wish Art Linkletter could interview today’s younger generation and ask, “What is love?” No doubt the answers would be amusing and yet, tragic. Few, if any, would even come close to an accurate definition of love. Worse yet, most adults would not do much better.

Heart of Worship

Annointing in Worship
Zec 4:14 So he said, "These are the two who are anointed to serve the Lord of all the earth."

To lead worship in any church is one of the most difficult things to do, because not only do we have a responsibility to the church and church leadership to carry out the duties involved, but we have a greater responsibility before the Lord as we lead people into his presence through music and song. The verse from Zechariah is an interesting one because the translation and meaning of the word anointed means "shining one".

Let's not allow the enemy to distract us...

Jack took a long look at his speedometer before slowing down: 73 in a 55 zone. Fourth time in as many months. How could a guy get caught so often?

When his car had slowed to 10 miles an hour, Jack pulled over, but only partially. Let the cop worry about the potential traffic hazard. Maybe some other car will tweak his backside with a mirror.

The cop was stepping out of his car, the big pad in hand.

I asked God to take away my pain. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No. Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn't granted, it is earned.

I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No. I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.

I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.

THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS

A young man who had been raised as an atheist was training to be an Olympic diver. The only religious influence in his life came from his outspoken Christian friend. The young diver never really paid much attention to his friend's sermons, but he heard them often.

It’s wond’rous what a
hug can do. A hug can
cheer you when you’re blue. A
hug can say, “I love you so”
or, “Gee I hate to see you go”.
A hug is, “Welcome back again!”
and “Great to see you!” or
“Where’ve you been?”A hug can
soothe a small child’s pain and
bring a rainbow after rain. The
hug! There’s just no doubt
about it, we scarcely could
survive without it. No longer
do you have to worry, for a hug
is the way to say “I’m sorry.”
A hug delights and warms and charms,
it must be why we all have arms.
Hugs are great for Fathers and
Mothers sweet for Sister, swell

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.

2. Prayer will still work.

3. The Holy Spirit will still move.

4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.

5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.

6. There will still be singing of praise to God.

7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.

8. There will still be room at the Cross.

9. Jesus will still love you.

10. Jesus will still save the lost.

ISN’T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS STILL IN CONTROL?

“Christians? Christians?”

Have you heard that call? They’re looking for me. That’s definitely me. You’re in doubt and Why? You want me to give you proofs? Oh! That’s very easy.

Who told you to doubt that I am a Christian?

I am a Christian! How?

I went to church. I pray. I have my religion. I read the Bible. I love kids and I am giving them what they want. I sing gospel songs. Now you’re telling me that you are in doubt?

How dare you to question me?

To realize The value of ten years: Ask a newly Divorced couple.

To realize The value of four years: Ask a graduate.

To realize The value of one year: Ask a student who Has failed a final exam.

To realize The value of nine months: Ask a mother who gave birth to a still born.

To realize The value of one month: Ask a mother who has given birth to A premature baby.

To realize The value of one week: Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.

To realize The value of one hour: Ask the lovers who are waiting to Meet.