DEVOTIONAL; “THE WORLD WE LIVE IN”
WRITTEN BY DEACON RICK, HILLTOP CHAPEL CHURCH
After reading the news today I asked myself is the world we live in really in such bad shape. Or is it just the journalists that make it seem so, misery sells better than joy! There are numerous conflicts throughout the world that we can follow, armed conflicts everywhere we look. The Arms industry is doing very well in this atmosphere; sales are way up there and climbing even higher. Threats of nuclear annihilation threaten us daily. People everywhere have different reasons for these disagreements that blow up into armed conflicts. Whether it be because of ethical reasons, religious reasons, boundary disputes, famine or several other reasons, let us also throw in there politics, people today are ready, willing, and able to take up arms against one another: greed, power, dominance over others, all these play a major role in the big picture of the world we live in. And it’s always been that way throughout time, when will the cycle stop, when will we wake up to the fact that it does not have to be this way.
There is an alternative. And I’m sure you all knew that I was heading there!
Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever”, Amen
For those of us who believe in the living God this world is not our final home. We have eternity in fellowship with God in Heaven to look forward to. When the daily news is too much and gets you down, turn to the Lord, your God and feel the peace, calm and quiet that is there. Open your heart and receive Him into your lives, not just for a little while but forever.
It’s amazing how that can change your whole attitude towards this world. We all need to feel his Grace and Love around us, always.
“MY HOME IS IN HEAVEN; I’M JUST TRAVELING THROUGH THIS WORLD” BILLY GRAHAM
Remember to keep the Lord, Your God always within your reach, God Bless You All
Deacon Rick McComb, Hilltop Chapel Church
A DEVOTIONAL: “INSTALLMENT CREDIT TERMS”
WRITTEN BY DECONNESS BONNIE, HILLTOP CHAPEL CHURCH
As I was preparing to make my final installment payment on my Subaru Outback, I experienced a good bit of happiness. However, at the same time I was reminded of all the many monthly payment it took to get to this point.
The majority of adults today have at some time during their lifetime needed to acquire homes, vehicles, and other essentials utilizing installment type resources. Some are even penalized and required to pay higher interest rates due to poor credit scores or simply because they are young with no established credit history.
But what about your eternal salvation, which is by far the most important acquisition in this life? And just how do we purchase it??
WE CAN’T. There is no installment term long enough or interest rate high enough. The price has already been paid in full by the blood of Jesus Christ on a cruel cross at Calvary.
When you accept Jesus Christ as your savior and Lord, there is no long-term extended installment plan. No waiting period, it is instantaneous (John e:16).
And what about all the past sins (think credit score)? No worry! All wiped away, cast into the bottom of the sea (Micah 7:19). Leave those sins buried in the depths of the sea. Don’t keep dragging them back up. They are gone, keep looking forward.
Heavenly Father, help us to leave the past behind and all you to direct our pathways forward today and evermore.
Deaconess Bonnie
Hilltop Chapel Church
A DEVOTIONAL: “LOOK FORWARD AND LOOK UP”
WRITTEN BY DEACONNES DARLENE, HILLTOP CHAPEL
If you ever climbed to a rooftop you might think, move forward and don’t look back.
If you are a believer in Jesus, don’t dwell on your past mistakes and sins. Jesus already dealt with your past so you are free to focus on the present and to look forward to the plans God has for you with blessings.
FORGIVE YOURSELF. GOD HAS.
(Genesis 17:20)
Lot’s wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt. God provided a way out, but she desired the past life at Sodom. Don’t look back!
(Philippines 4:6-8)
In the present follow these instructions. Don’t be anxious, but with prayer and supplication and thanks, let your request be known to God. Meditate on his blessings. You will have peace.
(Matthew 6:34)
Don’t worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will worry about its own things.
My prayer is that we will find our peace and guidance through God’s word, in prayer and worship.
Let’s look forward and always look up!
God Bless you and keep you safe,,,,,,,
Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel Church
Fourth Sunday of Advent; Love
As Christmas approaches all the children are eagerly waiting
to see what treasures they will receive. What a joyous time it is when Christmas morning arrives, revealing a well decorated Christmas tree with presents for everyone underneath. But have we forgotten the real reason for the season. Afterall it’s all about the birth of Jesu Christ, the Messiah, not about the presents you receive. Jesus brought with him the greatest present of all. His death on the cross brought about the remission of sin, past, present and future and the New Covenant sanctified in his own blood which provides us a pathway to heaven and eternal life in fellowship with God. Perhaps we should be telling our children about the real reason for the season. The miracle of the word that became flesh and lived among us. About the three wise men who traveled hundreds of miles on camels following a star in the sky to arrive in Bethlehem and witness the baby in the manger, the King of Kings.
Luke 2:11 “For to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”
Heavenly Father, the whole meaning of Christmas can be explained in one little four-letter word…LOVE. You sent your gift of pure love to us that first Christmas. Love descended from heaven to be born of a virgin. Love lay in the scratchy hay of a manger in a meager barn in Bethlehem. All of your love, God, was robed in the delicate skin of a baby and wrapped in swaddling clothes. This final week of Advent,
Third Advent Sunday, “JOY”
by Deaconess Bonnie, Hilltop Chapel Church
In a few days, Churches and homes around the world will be celebrating the Third Advent Sunday designated as JOY.
But why is this candle representing JOY pink while all the others are purple?
In researching this question, I found various explanative answers.
But, I decided to come up with my own “scientific” reasoning.
I definitely do not have the skills of an artist but in my limited knowledge I know to produce the color of purple, you must start with a base color of red (blood). By contrast, to produce pink you start with a base color of white (cleansing purity) and add a very minuscule amount of red (blood).
The common denominator of all the Advent colors is red, the blood of Jesus.
But why such a small amount for the third Advent color of pink representing JOY?
Well! Complete, lasting, all encompassing and eternal JOY is only attainable through the sacrificial blood (red) of Jesus Christ.
Just a drop and a willing heart responding to the Holy Spirit’s pleading with “I believe and accept Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord”.
The JOY of accepting Christ is instantaneous and becomes a foundation that reverberates into love, peace and a new hope!
HALLELJUAH!! Shout for JOY!!
Love and prayers to all for a blessed and joyous Christmas
Deaconess Bonnie, Hilltop Chapel Church
A DEVOTIONAL BY DEACONESS DARLENE, HILLTOP CHAPEL
Trials and Tribulations
I told a friend sometimes we have to go through a whole lot of really tough times before we get to heaven.
Meaning sometimes people have to struggle through the rough patches in life and possibly fall into despair before they realized our creator is our best guide. He is our strength.
Even Christians who have accepted Him, have challenges and need to study His word and come to Him in prayer.
This is clear in Acts 14:22. We must go through much tribulation to enter the Kingdom of God.
John 16:33; In this world you will have tribulations, but take heart, I have overcome the world.
May
God Richly Bless You
Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel
Devotional: by Deacon Rick, Hilltop Chapel
“Thanksgiving”
first Thanksgiving is said to have taken place in 1621, when the English colonists (Pilgrims) of Plymouth, in present-day Massachusetts, shared a harvest feast with the Wampanoag people.
The colonists had arrived in December 1620, and the first winter was especially difficult. About half of the original group died from disease and starvation.
Likely to promote a political alliance, the local Wampanoag decided to help the colonists, teaching them how to hunt and grow crops. That fall the harvest was good, and the colonists had a gathering to celebrate. A few went out “fowling,” possibly for turkeys but more probably for the easier prey of geese and ducks, since they “in one day killed as much as…served the company almost a week.”
About 90 Wampanoag arrived unexpectedly at the settlement’s gate—they possibly heard celebratory gunfire and feared an attack—and were invited to join the 50 or so colonists. Over the next few days the two groups socialized without incident. This meeting resulted in a treaty between the Wampanoag and the settlers. The treaty lasted until around 1675.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations. Psalm 100: 4-5
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for family and friends to come together, break bread, and share in each other’s company, and each other’s trials and tribulations as well. The West Coast version of our family gathered on the 22 of November for an early Thanksgiving in Madera California. We met at my oldest son’s house. Attending was my son, two granddaughters, two grandsons, three great grandchildren, one spouse, a couple of good ole friends and of course my wife and myself. All in all, a modest gathering.
A great time for all.
It reminded me again how important family is. It teaches us to be kind, thoughtful, generous and loving. But most of all to rely on each other during difficult times. We all have our ups and downs, it’s always nice to know there is family in the loop along with God to rely on. Family and friends are so important in our daily existence.
Carry the importance of friends and family in your heart.
Remember without God we are nothing and without the family of God we are lost.
May God Richly Bless You during your Thanksgiving Holiday, Deacon Rick McComb, Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL:
BY DECONESS BONNIE, HILLTOP CHAPEL
IN “ALL” THINGS GIVE THANKS
As we approach the Thanksgiving season, we think of all the innumerable things in our lives for which we give thanks. If we tried to list them all, the list could be endless.
Even so, we may exclude some very important times along our life’s journey that should be on that thankful list. We are in I Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.”
In all things? Is that even possible?
Well, that brought to mind the beautiful song,
“In the Valley He Restoreth My Soul”. Written by Dottie Rambo. A portion of second verse, “He tells me there’s strength in my sorrow and there’s victory in trials for me”.
Think about the words in the chorus: “He leads me beside still waters, somewhere in the valley below; He draws me aside to be tested and tried, but in the valley He restoreth my soul”.
Take a few moments and think about the valleys in your life and give thanks to our Heavenly Father for carrying you through those difficult times.
As you celebrate this wonderful Thanksgiving Season, may you and your loved ones be filled to overflowing with gratitude to our Heavenly Father for our eternal salvation.
In Christian Love,
Deaconess Bonnie, Hilltop Chapel
A Devotional:
By Deaconess Darlene,Hilltop Chapel
“Shifting Sands”
During walks with my granddaughter, we would identify animal tracks, tell stories and she would write in the sand. I would admire her foot prints next to mine long after she had gone home.
One story I told her was (footprints)…..A man had a dream that he is walking with the Lord. He sees the Lord’s footprints and his own. But in the worst of times the man only sees one set of footprints. The Lord tells the man, “This was when I carried you”.
The roads and landscape at our place changed drastically during a terrible rain storm. Mill Creek overflowed and ripped through our property. Creating a huge gulley, dividing the property.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ”.
Galatians 6:2
Neighbors, friends and family came to our aid to make our paths smooth again.
After the dust had settled, so to speak, I saw a message in the sand, it read.
HE is here, and indeed He was!
Give God all Praise and Honor. THANK YOU LORD FOR ROBERT THOMPSON!
AND CHILDREN’S WRITING IN THE SAND.
May God Richly Bless You Always
Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL:
BY DEACON RICK, HILLTOP CHAPEL:
“JACK”
Jack was our faithful companion, trustworthy friend, guardian of the grounds and the best dog we ever had. My wife and I had many dogs over our years together but none that we connected with more than Jack.
He was a chocolate Lab that weighed 115 lbs. A sweet disposition, warm heart and a soul for the ages. A true credit to his breeding.
Whenever anyone came up the driveway Jack would immediately jump into action, barking and running through the house, saying get up, get up, there’s something in the driveway, let’s go, let’s go, can’t you hear me!.
Jack always needed to greet everyone with his deep menacing bark that kept them from entering through the gate until we arrived and told him to relax, it was ok.
He especially did not like the UPS, FEDEX, and really did not like the garbage truck. But Jack had a good heart and a loving way about him. He was always kind and gentle. He’d play with the deer and the cat in the back yard. They all had an understanding. Jack loved the grandkids and really all the little ones.
When it was time to play, I’d throw the ball for him. He would chase it down and bring it back and drop it at my feet, looking up, saying “again, again”. We would do that till I was worn out, and it helped to settle him as well.
He remained a good friend and valiant protector right up to the end.
Good friends are hard to find and even harder to replace.
“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity”.
Psalm 133:1
Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family”, Proverbs 18:24
Faithful companionship is a theme throughout the bible, that emphases the importance of loyal and supportive relationships in the life of a believer. This is shown to us through various narratives, teaching, and proverbs that bring to mind the value of steadfast friends and companions who encourage, support and guide one another in faith, kindness, and righteousness.
Jack reminded me about the value of loyal friends and companionship, no matter what the situation held. Jesus taught me to be a faithful servant to all I encountered. That I was no better than the next man, that I should not judge, lest I be judged.
Faithful friends, and companions, such as Jack, are hard to find. Few and far between.
When you find true companions, treat them as brothers and sisters, take them in, and teach them about Jesus. Accept them for who they are.
Faithful friends and companions will last an eternity.
Remember the Jacks in your life.
May God Bless You, Deacon Rick McComb, Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL:
PRESENTED BY DEACONESS BONNIE, HILLTOP CHAPEL
“THE COMMISSION” AUTHORED BY INEZ FOREHAND SORENSEN
In the depth of the night when the earth was asleep
And the moon sent down her tender beams,
A gentle dove’s call in a lofty pine
Stole softly into the midst of my dreams,
In a still small voice, my Father came to me
As he has done so many times before
And said, “My Child I have a place for you
To fill on a far distant shore.”
“Oh God, there’s much to be done at this place
Where my family and good friends are near
And Jesus it would be easier working for You
Surrounded by the ones I love so dear.”
“My child, place your hand in Mine
And see the scars of the cross
That I bore on Calvary in love
That you and others might not be lost.”
“There are others who don’t know My love
And use My name only to sware.
I need messengers to show them
May God Bless You
Deaconess Bonnie
Hilltop Chapel
A Devotional:
Jesus’ Work
by Adam Holz
Presented by Deacon Rick, Hilltop Chapel
Ephesians 4:1 “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received”.
In 1997, Iowa State University named its football stadium after the school’s, first black athlete: Jack Trice. Tragically, Trice had never even played in Ames, Iowa—He died from internal injuries sustained during a play in his second college game, played in Minneapolis, Minnesota on October 6, 1923.
Trice wrote a note to himself the night before the game, bearing witness to his determination:
“The honor of my race, family and self are at stake. Everyone is expecting me to do big things. I will! My whole body and soul are to be thrown recklessly about on the field tomorrow. Every time the ball is snapped, I will be trying to do more than my part.”
Trice profoundly understood that what he did flowed from the honor and dignity of who he was, infusing his character with courage.
The apostle Paul says something similar in his letter to the Ephesians challenging believers to let who they were in Christ influence every decision: “As a prisoner for the Lord, then I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received (Ephesians 4:1).
Paul challenges us to embrace a way of living shaped by Jesus’ work for us, in us and through us, which yields humility, gentleness, patience, unity, love, and peace (vv. -2-3) as we use our God Given gifts to serve one another (vv15-16).
What’s the connection between our beliefs and actions? What gifts has God given you to serve others?
May God bless you and keep you in his loving arms,
Deacon Rick McComb, Hilltop Chapel
DEVOTIONAL:
BY DARLENE; DEACONESS, HILLTOP CHAPEL
“When the Children sing”
I recently attended a middle school concert. A light bulb went on in my head. I recognized some of the words that were sung in Latin.
Translation; “Rejoice in the Lord you righteous ones, praise is fitting for the upright. Praise on the harp. Sing to him a new song with a loud voice.
My heart leaped with joy hearing these words!
Psalms 100:2 “Serve the Lord with gladness, come before his presence with singing”.
I pray you will see God’s light in many people and you will reflect that light to others.
Have Joy,
Have happiness
May God richly bless you,
Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL:
Countering Fear;
By Deacon Rick, Hilltop Chapel
In II Timothy 1:7, the Apostle Paul told his spiritual son, Timothy, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
When you realize that Paul was facing the death penalty from the Roman Empire Nero (he was later beheaded), this is a remarkable statement. How could he say this? He was so convinced and communicated it so well in his farewell letter to the son of his heart.
How often in this world do we succumb to fear, the ever-changing landscape of the world brings forth many fearful images. Images of evil and wars, failure and fault, images of satan releasing evil, families without love, ministries without truth, images of stock markets falling and politicians saying it’s ok. What are we going to do? How will we protect ourselves against not only this soiled world, but from the attacks of the satanic world led by Satan himself! And I must say Satan is good at producing fear and anguish.
Psalm 27:1 “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.”
Let’s respond to fear with our faith. Be assured that God is in control and has the perfect plan. Trust his plan for your life, receive his peace, God is faithful and he loves us, all of us.
Ephesians 6:10-11.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can stand against the devil’s schemes.
Fear is close, but God is closer.
His peace belongs to us. Have confidence in His power, goodness, and love and we shall prevail.
Faith trumps fear.
May God bless You and keep you safe.
Deacon Rick McComb, Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL:
By Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel
John 10:10
When my son was five years old, I had a good chuckle as I witnessed him and a friend prepare to bury his beloved grasshopper. “We need to say a prayer and ask Jesus to come into his heart” he said.
But then they said, “but gee he is so small!”
This memory came back to me as I was reading a book entitled 100 answers about God. By Lila Empson. She commented that God reminded Job that he is big enough to hold back the sea, wrap the world in clouds and care for everything he had created, yet he is also small enough to fit inside your innermost spirit to guide, guard and care for you.
I myself say, “that when you ask Jesus to come into your heart you will overflow with his love that can spill out to others.
Reminding me of John 10:10.
“I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly”.
May God Bless you beyond measure
Deaconess Darlene
Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL: INSTANTANEOUS VIEWS
WRITTEN BY DEACONESS BONNIE
HILLTOP CHAPEL
The recent loss of Charlie Kirk’s life with its seemingly real time world-wide viewing brought my attention to REVELATION CHAPTER 11.
Here we read of two witnesses given great and mighty powers from God who were prophesying and preaching the gospel of repentance. (v,3).
In a quick summary; the beast ascends out of the bottomless pit and kills them. (v,7) Their bodies lie in the street for three and a half days. (v,8,9,10). Then the Spirit of Life from God enters them and they stand on their feet.
(v,11) A great voice from Heaven is heard saying come up hither and they ascended to Heaven in a cloud.
All this was witnessed by people and kindreds and tongues of all nations. )v,12)
It’s hard for me to image this as a young girl when small black and white televisions were emerging into average homes.
Fast forward to today with satellites instantaneously beaming world-wide events into every nook and cranny of the world.
Of course, God could have accomplished this prophecy without mankind’s help.
This is just a small example of what Revelation contains. The last book of the Bible and the only book in which God promises a special blessing to those who will read and study it. (Chapter 1, v,4 )
With God’s help, we can develop a burning desire to spend quality time studying His Holy Word (even Revelation) and applying it to our daily lives.
Heavenly Father protect us, draw our hearts to you and give us wisdom as we study Your Holy Word each day.
Deaconess Bonnie
Hilltop Chapel
A DEVOTIONAL: By Pastor Rod, Hilltop Chapel
I Thessalonians 4:13-14
But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen aspleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.
For if we believe that Jesus died and rose gain, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jeusus.
A good friend went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, this past week. Even though I'd only known Doug for a few years, we'd kept in contact throuigh texts shared with us by his loving wife.
Doug was a gifted muscian (guitar and banjo) and singer/song writer. His compositions ran the gamut of country, gospel, and even love songs to his wife.
His profession was teacher and he was a good one. Actively involved in the classroom, he gave his students expert instruction and life lessons in the mix. He was a strong believer in Jesus Christ and expressed his love for the Lord unasd,hamedly, but lovingly and patiently.
So you may ask, "aren't Christians supposed to do that?" Yes, they certainly are challenged by God's word to do that very thing, but how many are actively engaged din witnessing earnestly, and fervently each day?
Doug was the victim of stroke two years ago, which left him unable to walk, talk and even eat without help. Against all very stiff odds Doug relearned the basic functions the stroke had stolen from him and was walking on his own, talking (with some difficulty) and singing pretty well. Just Doug's determination not to let the stroke defeat him spoke volumes about his faith. His confidence was based on Phillippians 4:13: "I can do all things through christ who strengthens me."
Doug believed that God placed him on this earth to be a beacon of light in a dark world.
Before his stroke Doug was involved in a country gospel band which was dedicdated to ministering to older folks in assisted-living and nursing homes in his area. They would sing and then give a gospel message to the people and were very effective for the Lord. I know that when "the roll is called up yonder" Doug will be there singing in the heavenly choir.
So what'w the moral of this article? If you know Jesus as your Savior your future is in heaven with Him and you'll be reunited with those who went to be with Him previously and spend eternity rejoicing, fellowshipping and praising God forever.
In the meantime, do all that you can to lead others to Jesus and invite them to place their lives in His hands.
May God Richly Bless You!
Pastor Rod Davison
Hilltop Chapel
A Devotional:
Written by Deacon Rick, Hilltop Chapel
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way they should go: and when they are old, they will not depart from it.
Often in this world I see young children, and adolescent children along with young adults doing whatever they want regardless of the consequences that fall on others. Then in my mind I realized that somewhere along the line the lessons of right and wrong had not be taught. Somewhere that chain of teaching had broken. The result of that breakdown is now we have members of these same age groups feeling they should receive wages without work. Some how working for a living had fallen by the wayside. While others in these same age groups are hard working, dependable moral citizens. Was it several generations ago or was it more recent that the learning of right and wrong was dropped. That the learning chain broke down.
Where to we start to fix the broken links in our society to repair the damage done to these young citizens.
To begin with there are way too many homes in this country that do not have a Bible, I’m not saying this is the only way to fix things, just that it is a good place to start. There are way too many homes where the Word of God is not spoken and passed on. There are too many homes where Grace before meals is not said. To many homes where the great stories and lessons of the Bible are not read.
The words that Jesus spoke to us echoes in our minds always. The Bible teaches many lessons to young and old alike. Life lessons. Civil lessons. Moral lessons. Lessons to live your life by.
When I was about 5 yrs old my parents did not attend church on Sundays. But they made sure that my brother, sister and I attended Sunday School. I did not always want to go but my parents made sure we put on our finest suits and sister wore modest dresses. Every Sunday that we were in town they would drop us off and pick us up. They wanted to be sure that the seed was planted in our hearts. Never did they fail or were they late. They planted that seed of Christianity.
As I grew up I wandered around in the Southwester U.S. for quite a few years. It was a time of ups and downs, a time of uncertainty, a time of searching for something better. The seed planted by my parents long ago longed to be harvested. And one day it was, I turned by head back to God. I realized that the path I had been searching for, was right in front of me the whole time. As that seed that was planted began to germinate and grow I wandered back to Jesus. Back to the days when the seed was planted, stepped on the trail of the righteous and never looked back. I found calm, peace and most of all a serenity that has kept me on the trail.
Plant the seed of Christianity in the hearts of your children, raise them up to love God and they will be the ones that shall never wander and the ones that will help fix our broken links.
God Bless you and keep you safe,
Rick McComb
Deacon, Hilltop Chapel
Devotional:
Written By Deaconess Bonnie; Hilltop Chapel
Storm Preparedness:
How often do we find ourselves unprepared for the storms of life?
Recently, in my peaceful home nestled in the small mountain community of Miramonte I sat reading my Bible. The distant sounds of loud rolling claps of thunder penetrated the normal peaceful silence. So, I stepped outside to check it out but there was no rain or wind and no visible lightning across the sky. And I just dismissed it as only a high elevation summer sto rm.
My main concern was the possibility that it could ignite a wildfire. So I sent a quick text message to my daughters asking them to please pray that no fires would be ignited in the high country.
With the bases covered for now all was well!
Or so I thought
:.
How unexpectedly quick that storm was directly over my house. No time to close the car window; now that the thunder bolted and lightning flashed overhead and all around. Gusts of wind so strong it seemed to relocate everything in its path. By the way, I grew up in Florida and was taught to never go outside when there is lightning and thunder nearby.
As I experienced this sudden and unexpected event my thoughts transitioned to a future far more greater and eternal event described in our Bible. (God’s Word.) An event most often referred to as the rapture and described in Thessalonians 4:16-17 “For the Lord himself shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead shall rise first”. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord”. Jesus tells us in Matthew 24:36, that “of that day and hour knoweth no man no not the Angels in Heaven, but by Father only”. However, the Bible does contain lots of information about what will precede the rapture and instructs us in;
Matthew 25:13, “watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of Man Cometh”.
May God Bless you and keep you always safe.
Bonnie
Hilltop Chapel
Deaconess
A Devotional:
Presented by Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop ChapeI
Corinthians: 4-7
Love suffers long, is kind, does not envy, love is not puffed up, love is not rude, does not seek his own, is not provoked.
Love Looks beyond by Ruth Bell Graham
You look at me and see my flaws;
I look at you and see flaws, too.
Those who love know love, deserves a second glance;
Each failure serves another chance.
Love looks to see beyond your scars
And flaws, the cause; and scars become
An honorable badge of battles fought and won—(or lost)
But Fought
!
The product, not the cost, is what love sought.
God help us see beyond the now to the before, and note with tenderness what lies between—and love the more!
I
Corinthians 13:13
Three things will last forever; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
May God Richly Bless You, Deaconess Darlene
Sed pede ullamcorper amet ullamcorper primis, nam pretium suspendisse neque, a phasellus sit pulvinar vel integer.
Acts 9: 9-17
The Damascus Road: Saul Converted
A devotional written by: Deacon Rick McComb
When Saul of Tarsus encountered Jesus on the Damascus Road it changed his life forever.
That encounter with Jesus certainly wasn’t what Saul of Tarsus had in mind for his day. He was busy persecuting Christians. He was on his way to Damascus to round up some and take them to Jerusalem for punishment. He didn’t have time for interruptions, he was on a mission for the Roman Empire.
But, through that encounter with Jesus on the Damascus Road he became a follower of Jesus. He became an ambassador for Jesus among the twelve churches. Jesus referred to him as His chosen vessel to reach out to those twelve churches. Saul renamed Paul by Jesus went on to write 13 of the 26 Books of the Bible’s New Testament and from that day on he preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To all who would listen and to those who would not listen alike.
Ok, time to come clean:
As I look back on my life there are many things that I should not have done, I like Saul had become a grade “A” sinner. I was not always the person you see here today. I never cared who I hurt or cheated or abandoned. I had no scruples, no morality as I navigated this life.
Then one day my life changed forever. That was the day I heard Jesus through the Holy Spirit call me to His service for His purpose. I had what I liked to call a “metaphorical meeting with Jesus on that Damascus Road”. That meeting charted a new direction for me. A direction that led me to follow Jesus, to do good, preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and help all who I encountered along the way. And when I felt weak he encouraged me to Trust in Him. No matter how difficult it became to always look to Him who is always there, Who will never leave us nor forsake us.
Living the life of a Christian is not always easy and can bring you trouble, chaos, and mental anguish as you work to balance the scales and right the wrongs of your pervious life every day. Preaching the Gospel can also bring you joy, comfort, peace that surpasses understanding and a state of mind that will never renounce your faith. A state of mind that will lead you to acknowledge and pursue the last Command of Jesus Christ, “ And Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:18-20.
Come along and join me on that “metaphorical Road to Damascus” and see where it leads. Sundays are always good, Hilltop Chapel Sunday Service starts at 11am.
I hope to see you there. God Bless You all: R. McComb: Deacon, Hilltop Chapel
DEVOTIONAL: WRITTEN BY DEACONESS BONNIE, HILLTOP CHAPEL
“CLEAR OUT THE CLUTTER”
If someone asked you to define clutter, your thoughts would most likely go to the “catch all” room in your home. Or possibly the garage and/or shed that’s filled to capacity and stacked to the ceiling with this and thats. Things that possibly might be needed someday in the future, but currently just don’t have a place inside the home area. So, that” clutter” continues to accumulate and if not addressed becomes a virtual “nightmare”.
But have you ever considered that our hearts and minds are a lot like that. They can accumulate lots of clutter. Living in our wayward world today, it’s easy to unknowingly acquire ungodly thoughts and attitudes.
But as Christians and believers in God, our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19). Could God feel like He is living in our messy garage? Don’t let the Spirit reside in a cluttered heart.
Set aside some time today and with God’s help clear out all that clutter.
Discard all those things so displeasing to our Heavenly Father. Fill your Heart with the beauty of God’s Word. Make it clean and open the door of that uncluttered heart reflecting God’s light flowing through you to all those around you today.
YOU CAN BE THAT BRIGHT LIGHT GOD WANTS YOU TO BE!
DEACONESS BONNIE: HILLTOP CHAPEL
MAY GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU AND HOLD YOU IN IS LOVING ARMS
Devotional: From the book “40 Days of Prayer” by Will Stoll,
Presented by Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel
Day19:
Meeting God -Your Perspective Changes
Psalm 136:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast Love endures forever.
“We pray for the big things and forget to give thanks for the ordinary, small (and yet not really small) gifts. How can God entrust great things to one who will not thankfully receive from Him the little things?”
A thought from Dietrich Bonhoeffer-German, Theologian & Martyr.
Reverend Bonhoeffer was a brave man who rejected the philosophies of Hitler’s Nazi Party. He was a pastor, theologian, ecumenist and peace activist. He wrote profoundly, About “ What is Christ for us today.”
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was born February 4th, 1906. He was arrested on April 5th, 1943 for acts against the Third Reiche and was imprisoned in Berlin for two years. Following the failure of the attempt on Hitler’s life on July 20, 1944 he was transferred to a prison camp and executed by hanging on April 9th, 1945.
He said “How can I be involved in the reconstruction of Christianity in Germany if I don’t stay here and share in this terrible sorrow”.
May God richly bless you, Deaconess Darlene, Hilltop Chapel
7/30/2025 A Devotional by “Women in Prayer1” Author unknown, Presented by Deacon Rick, Hilltop Chapel
EXODUS 14:14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still’
Everything is going to be alright, God knows you are tired and that you’ve done your best. He understands your worries about the future. Don’t be afraid—He’s always watching over you and sees your perseverance and refusal to give up.
God is making a way for you right now. Don’t give up! You are going to make it, no matter what it looks like right now. Remember: God is working behind the scenes for your good. He didn’t bring you this far to leave you.
Be ready---something you prayed for is about to happen. Have faith, and you won’t have to fight. God will move the wrong people out of your way. He’ll open the door you couldn’t open by yourself and turn the situation around.
Remember! “The Lord will fight for you; and you need only to be still”
God Bless you and be with you always
Hi my name is Dann and I am a Deacon at hilltop Chapel in Miramonte Ca. Over the last several years we have seen more natural disasters happening whether it be fires, earthquakes, flooding, hurricanes, and in some cases volcanoes, wars and rumors of wars, not only here in the USA but all over the world. The Bible says that in the last days these things will not only increase in number, but in severity as well. Not only that, but people will also come and say that they are Christ and will try to convince you of that. Jesus tells us in Matthew 24:4-7: 4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, “take heed that no man leads you astray. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am the Christ; and will deceive many, and will lead many astray 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that you be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass; but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there shall be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in divers places. Most of the disasters happen so quickly that people have no time to get to safety. They are still searching for people in Texas, from the floods, some have made it out, and unfortunately others were not so lucky. I'm sure their day started just like any of our days start. They had things to do, just like we have things to do. No one ever thinks that their lives could change in just a few hours, minutes, or seconds. Just like ours lives right now we don't know what's going to happen in the next several hours, minutes, or seconds. If you were in Texas at the time of the flood, would you be ready to meet God? I pray that everyone that was affected had a relationship with Jesus or at least had a chance to ask for forgiveness before they died. Unfortunately, some died there without Jesus in their hearts and will spend eternity in Hell. Jesus also said in John 3: 16-18: 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. 17 For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world should be saved through him. 18 He that believeth on him is not judged: he that believeth not hath been judged already, because he hath not believed on the name of the only begotten Son of God. If you found yourself in a situation as in Texas, do you know if you would you go to be with Jesus in Heaven? You might say why do I need Jesus, I am not a bad person. Well, Jesus said in Romans 3:23 for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God; We all need Jesus in our lives, if you have not asked Jesus into your heart to be your Lord and Savor. Don’t let another second go by, that might be the last second you have. It’s not hard, just a short prayer, and be willing to have Jesus change you from the inside. You also might say, I can’t live up to the Bible, news break, no one can. That is why God sent His only Son to die in our place for our sins. Jesus paid the price you or I could not. Don’t wait. If you are feeling Jesus is speaking to you and you would like to be sure you will go to be with Jesus, just repeat this little prayer: Dear Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that you are the Son of God, and you died and rose for me so that only through you that I can have eternal life with you. Please forgive me for all of my sins and come into my heart and be my Lord and Savor. Please change me from the inside out into the person you want me to be.
If you prayed that pray, we would like to know. We would love to connect with you and come along side of you as you start your new journey with Jesus. Give us a call at: (559) 336-2454 or come by on any Sunday at 11:00am.
A Devotional:
Guaranteed Peace
The word peace in various forms is contained in our King James version of the Bible over 400 times, starting with the Book of Genesis and scattered throughout. It is one of the nine fruits of The Spirit along with love, joy, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. (Galatians 5:22-23).
Webster has defined the word peace in numerous ways. It is a consistent leading headline across the many news outlets and social media platforms. And how often are we hearing protests/rallies being described as “peaceful” when they are anything but that.
I digressed!
Is there, or will there ever be such a condition as peace??
ABSOLUTELY—100%
Today, right now!
Even amidst the world’s turmoil. Ever lasting peace can never be bought or negotiated by world leaders.
IT IS FREE!! True peace, God’s peace isn’t defined by our circumstances but by our trust in Him. God’s peace is not an absence of conflict, but rather a profound sense of security even in times of distress.
It’s peace that surpasses human understanding and guards our hearts and minds in the midst of the most difficult circumstances. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Jesus doesn’t promise us a pain-free life.
But he does promise that as we trust and rest in Him, we can experience a peace that’s deeper and more satisfying knowing that He is always with us and will never, ever leave our side.
Father, thank you for the perfect peace and rest you give to those who choose to put their trust on You.
Bonnie Lamar
Hilltop Chapel Deaconess
Devotional Page for Deacons and Deconesses
Health Check: A Devotional by Deacon Rick McComb
I hope all of you are feeling well today. Good health is an important part of our lives. Somedays are difficult due to our health. Sitting in the Dr’s office the other day I reflected on all the time I spend in offices like this one. Waiting to see the Dr. to hear what he/she has to say about my latest health issues. As we age(and I’m going on 77) we find ourselves going to dr’s way to often. But to keep going in good health that is what it takes. How many of you today feel you are in reasonably good health? Most of us take pretty good care of ourselves, when we don’t feel well we go see the doctor and see what they can offer. We follow their advice in the hope that it will cure all that ails us. We ask ourselves will this prognosis make us feel better or not? What will be the eventual outcome. We all know how much happier we are when we feel good, the world seems somehow better . We spend a lot of our time taking care of our health and rightly so.
But let’s flip the topic and talk about our spiritual health, you knew I was headed here didn't you. Are we doing the things we should be doing to achieve eternal fellowship with God.
In John 14;6 Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one goes to the father except through me, if you knew me you would also know my Father, also from this day forward you have known him and seen him”. What Jesus is saying here is that your salvation, your redemption, your eternal future in Heaven depends on your personal relationship with Him. “no one goes to the father except through me”. We already talked about all the time we give to our personal health in this world, but what about the time we need to spend on our spiritual health in fellowship with Jesus? What about the time we need to spend in preparation for when Jesus comes again? This time He will come to judge us on what we have done in his name, saving those who have prepared themselves for his coming. Don’t let yourself be caught unprepared. No one knows when Jesus is coming, be prepared to receive him.
And no one at the end of this life wants to appear before God and Jesus and hear the words, “turn away and be gone, I have never known you”. What we want to hear is “Well done oh good and faithful servant”. Dedicate sometime every day in fellowship with Jesus. Your life will become more fruitful and meaningful. Don’t wait, don’t hesitate, your salvation is at hand, open your dialogue with Jesus today, He’s waiting for you, right now!
May God Bless You always and keep you safe from all harm,,,,,
Deacons' and Deaconesses' Ministry: Devotionals
Providing faithful service to the church with monthly meetings.
Contact: Pastor Rod Davison
DEACONS' AND DEACONESSES' MINISTRY
One of the goals of our church is to reach out to those the Lord brings to us by ministering to their needs. The purpose of each Deacon and Deaconess is to be a spiritual leader within the congregation and provide counsel to the Pastor.
Deacons and Deaconesses assist with Communion and prepare elements for communion. They serve on the Hilltop Chapel Official Board and attend monthly Deacon meetings and provide a Deacons' Report at the quarterly Official Board meetings. They are available to conduct worship services and adult Sunday School in the absence of the Pastor. Deacons and Deaconesses insure spiritual accountability within the body of Christ and encourage the congregation to participate in church activities. Deacons and Deaconesses assist the Pastor as necessary, and are available for visitations and to minister to the needs of the congregation while honoring confidentiality and discretion.
Paul called himself a servant, or "deacon", in 1 Corinthians 3:5 and Ephesians 3:7. Even Jesus was said to be a servant, or "deacon", according to Romans 15:8 and John 12:26, and Paul told Timothy to be a good servant, or "deacon" in 1 Timothy 4:6.
Our Deacons and Deaconesses are available and eager to serve our congregation and welcome the opportunity to assist you. Our current Deacons/Deaconesses are: Darlene Kenaston, Bonnie Lamar, Dann Derfelt and Rick McComb.
Feel free to contact any of them for more information.