Building Godly relationships #4 By Pastor George Lehman What a big difference there is between giving advice and lending a hand.   We even give advice that we are not willing to follow. 1 John 3:18 (LB) - “Little children, let us stop just saying we love people, let us really love them and show it by our actions.” How many happy selfish people do you know? A psychiatrist, dr. Carl Menninger, was asked, “What advice would you give to a person to do if he felt a nervous breakdown coming on?”  He answered, “Not to consult a psychiatrist.  Lock up your house, go across the railroad, find someone in need and do something to help that person.” The best way to forget your troubles is to help others out of theirs. At the Seattle Special Olympics, 9 contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a determination to run the race to the finish and win.  All, that is, except one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times, and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy cry.  They slowed down and looked back.  Then they all turned around and went back … every one of them.  One girl with Down’s Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said, “This will make it better.”  Then all nine linked arms and walked together to the finish line. Everyone in the stadium stood, the cheering went on for several minutes.  People who were there are still retelling the story.  Why would this move the hearts of the people? Because deep down in all of us we know this one thing:  it’s the way God has wired us up. What matters in this life, what’s of greater worth and value more than just winning for ourselves.  What really matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down and changing our course.  “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.”   I want to talk about: The fellowship of the Mat Mark 2:1-5 (Amp) - And Jesus having returned to Capernaum, after some days it was rumored about that He was in the house [probably Peter’s]. 2And so many people gathered together there that there was no longer room [for them], not even around the door; and He was discussing the Word.  3Then they came, bringing a paralytic to Him, who had been picked up and was being carried by four men. 4And when they could not get him to a place in front of Jesus because of the throng, they dug through the roof above Him; and when they had scooped out an opening, they let down the [thickly padded] quilt or mat upon which the paralyzed man lay.  5And when Jesus saw their faith [their confidence in God through Him], He said to the paralyzed man, Son, your sins are forgiven [you] and put away [that is, the penalty is remitted, the sense of guilt removed, and you are made upright and in right standing with God]. One of the greatest stories in the bible about relationships, about real people having real relationships. We see a paralyzed man with friends who were willing to care.  People who took “Building Godly relationships” seriously. The person paralyzed was confined to a mat 2m x 1m most of his life. What did he have?  You know what he had – Godly relationship builders. This whole story takes place because of his friends.  Without his friends he never makes it to Jesus: Never gets healed Never gets forgiven The story possibly never gets told Yet, here are a few “Godly relationship builders” who refused to let any obstacle stop them. In the face of formidable obstacles, social and peer pressure, stigma, inconvenience, high cost of time and energy, they chose to put a High Value on their relationship. Here’s an important lesson to us all: You cannot microwave relationships. You cannot have relationships in a hurry. You can’t listen in a hurry – mourn or rejoice or build meaningful friendships in a hurry. We become so busy with our jobs, careers, making money, making a living – in our own little world. All about ME, that we neglect the one most valuable possession God placed in us – to build “Godly relationships”.  Boy, are we going to be accountable to God one day or WHAT?! The truth is in every one of our lives we all have a mat.   The mat stands for: Our human brokenness. - Our imperfections. - Our failures, our attitudes. It’s all the “what’s not NORMAL about me”. The things we desire to hide about ourselves Maybe your mat is your: Temper – you can’t control. Maybe it’s fear – fear of failure, Fear of the future, fear of past events in your life, fear of hurt. Maybe you are unable to trust people. Maybe it’s a personal secret of some awful habit or something you are still guilty about. The problem is – most people do “Mat Management”. They notice everyone else’s mat and act as though they don’t have a mat. It’s only IN relationships when we allow others to see our mat. If you’re not involved in a ministry, how will you cope with your mat.  When we give and receive help with each other, that’s when healing becomes possible. Wherever human beings love, accept, respect and serve each other, in the face of weakness, is where real “Godly Relationships” are built. If you want to “build Godly relationships” you can’t always be the strong one.  You will have to learn to let somebody else carry your mat. There has to be trust between friends.  Imagine this paralytic – how he had to trust his friends to lower him through a roof to get to Jesus. Jesus looks up and sees the faces of 4 men looking to him. Mark 2:5 (Amp) – When He saw their* faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son your sins are forgiven”. *Note – not the one on the mat’s faith their FAITH. Galatians 6:2 says carry one another’s burdens As a result of your obedience someone could be set free, think about that. Mark 2:11 (Amp) - I say to you, arise, pick up and carry your sleeping pad or mat, and be going on home. I believe Jesus saw “the building of Godly relationships” in action. There where unity is, a blessing is commanded, and deliverance and healing flows freely. God wants us to stand in the gap for one another. That’s relationship. The truth is, the more spiritually mature you grow, the more you’ll find your heart been drawn to…“Building Godly relationships” So many times, it’s the longer saved Christians who grumble complain and judge the most and do the least especially many times this happens with leaders “I mean I am the leader so respect me” Being there, standing in the gap, carrying one another’s mats will cost you something, but the reward of seeing someone set free is worth it. Close: 1 John 3:18 (LB) - “little children, let us stop just saying we love people, let us really love them (carry their mat) and show it by our actions.”

“Godly Relationships #3: Rooted in the Eternal Work of Christ” Pastor Kobus Massyn Colossians 1:9-20 9For this reason, since the day we heard about it, we have not stopped praying for you, asking [specifically] that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom [with insight into His purposes], and in understanding [of spiritual things], 10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord [displaying admirable character, moral courage, and personal integrity], to [fully] please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing in the knowledge of God [with deeper faith, clearer insight and fervent love for His precepts]; 11[we pray that you may be] strengthened and invigorated with all power, according to His glorious might, to attain every kind of endurance and patience with joy; 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints (God’s people) in the Light. 13For He has rescued us and has drawn us to Himself from the dominion of darkness, and has transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption [because of His sacrifice, resulting in] the forgiveness of our sins [and the cancellation of sins’ penalty]. 15He is the exact living image [the essential manifestation] of the unseen God [the visible representation of the invisible], the firstborn [the preeminent one, the sovereign, and the originator] of all creation. 16For by Him all things were created in heaven and on earth, [things] visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities; all things were created and exist through Him [that is, by His activity] and for Him. 17And He Himself existed and is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. [His is the controlling, cohesive force of the universe.] 18He is also the head [the life-source and leader] of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will occupy the first place [He will stand supreme and be preeminent] in everything.19For it pleased the Father for all the fullness [of deity—the sum total of His essence, all His perfection, powers, and attributes] to dwell [permanently] in Him (the Son), 20and through [the intervention of] the Son to reconcile all things to Himself, making peace [with believers] through the blood of His cross; through Him, [I say,] whether things on earth or things in heaven. Godly relationships are only possible because Christ’s saving work — planned before creation, fulfilled at the cross, and applied to us now — transforms how we see ourselves and others. Every relationship is shaped by something… by wounds, expectations, family background, culture, personality. But Scripture teaches that the foundation of godly relationships is not our ability, but Christ’s identity and finished work. His love for us — planned before we existed — becomes the pattern for how we love others. BEFORE TIME — GOD CHOSE US IN LOVE Revelation 13:8 — “The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Before we failed… before we sinned… before we could believe… God already planned to redeem us. The cross was not Plan B… It was God’s eternal plan of love. Application to relationships: Because God chose us before we deserved it, we can choose to love others even when they don’t deserve it. Godly relationships begin in grace, not performance. For example: A couple struggling with bitterness attends counselling. The breakthrough came not when they learned techniques, but when they both realized: “Forgiven people forgive.” Only when they saw themselves as loved and forgiven in Christ, could they rightly love each other. Our horizontal relationships are only as healthy as our understanding of God’s love. IN TIME — CHRIST PAID THE PRICE Christ’s love became visible at the cross. 1 John 4:10 - “Not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son…” His love: • Initiates • Sacrifices • Serves This becomes the model for all Christian relationships. John 13:34–35  - “As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Love is not defined by our feelings, but by Jesus’ example. Application: Godly relationships require: • Sacrifice • Humility • Forgiveness • Presence Because that’s how Jesus loved. Application to relationships: Can a 50/50 relationship work? Luke 22:31-32  - “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” ' FOR ALL TIME — HIS LOVE NOW DEFINES US Zechariah 3 gives a heavenly picture: Joshua the high priest stands accused • He is clothed in filthy garments • Satan accuses • The Lord removes the filthy clothing • God clothes him with righteousness This is the gospel applied. Our new identity does not come from what we’ve done, but from what God has put on us. Application: If God has declared me righteous, then I don’t relate to others from: • insecurity • shame • competition • comparison I relate from identity and rest. Secure people can love deeply. Insecure people use people. Godly relationships flow from who we are in Christ. RELATIONSHIPS TRANSFORMED BY IDENTITY Because the gospel clothes us with righteousness: We can forgive We can see others through grace We can speak truth in love We can pursue reconciliation We can build people up, not tear them down 1 John 4:11 - “Since God loved us, we also ought to love one another.” God doesn’t ask us to give others what we don’t have — He gives it first, then tells us to give it away. THE ENEMY OPPOSES GODLY RELATIONSHIPS In Zechariah 3: • Satan stands to accuse • He tries to define us by our past • God silences him Likewise, the enemy: • Brings accusation • Breeds division • Fuels bitterness But the Lord says: “The LORD rebuke you!” Godly relationships flourish when: • Accusation is rejected • Identity is in Christ • Grace is extended HOW DO WE LIVE THIS OUT? Receive God’s love Can’t give what you don’t have. Walk in your new identity You are clothed in Christ — not shame. Love like Jesus loved Practical: • Listen • Forgive • Serve • Speak truth in love Resist accusation Don’t let the enemy define your relationships. THE BEAUTY OF GODLY RELATIONSHIPS Godly relationships are supernatural: • Planned before time • Secured at the cross • Empowered by the Spirit now We don’t love from our capacity — we love from His capacity in us. Jesus is the source, model, and strength for Godly relationships. When the world sees this love, they see Him. John 13:35 - “By this everyone will know you are My disciples…”

Building Godly Relationships #2 Responding to Truth By Pastor Kobus Massyn 9/11/2025   John 14:6 — I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.   Jesus is the ultimate truth-teller. His correction is loving, redemptive, restoring. Jesus taught that every strong relationship, with God and with people, is built on truth. Truth invites a response. How we respond determines the strength or ruin of our relationships. Jesus ends the Sermon on the Mount by saying: Matt 7:24–27 - “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does them…” The difference between house standing or falling is not hearing — everyone hears — it’s responding. To build healthy, God-honoring relationships, we must learn to respond rightly to truth. We read about these three responses to truth: Wise response Foolish response Evil/Destructive response And how these shape our relationships. THE WISE RESPONSE: Receive truth & Adjust Yourself   Matthew 7:24–25 - The wise man hears and practices—his house stands.   Psalm 141:5 - “Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness… let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head.”   The wise person: Welcomes truth Sees correction as kindness Adjusts himself Grows The wise person says: “YOU are right — I will change.” This is humility. It strengthens trust — and trust strengthens relationships. Nathan and David — 2 Samuel 12 When Nathan confronted David about his sin, David repented immediately. This restored his relationship with God and kept his destiny intact. Other Supporting Scriptures Prov 12:1 — Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge Prov 13:10 — Pride leads to conflict; wisdom is found in those who take advice Heb 12:11 — Discipline yields righteous fruit Practical Example Your spouse / friend tells you: “You are harsh with your words.” A wise response: “Thank you. I didn’t see it. I will work on it.”   Even if the delivery isn’t perfect, the wise person finds the truth, accepts it, and grows. RESULT → relationship deeper, stronger THE FOOLISH RESPONSE: Argue & Adjust the Truth   Eph 5:15 - So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.   Proverbs 9:7–8 - Do not correct a scoffer; he will hate you. Correct a wise man, he will love you.   The foolish person: Hears truth But debates it Argues about it Adjusts it to protect himself Rationalizes & justifies He says: “I am right. YOU change.” This response breaks trust. It weakens relationships because truth can’t build where it’s resisted. King Saul — blamed the people, refused responsibility (1 Sam 15) When confronted by Samuel, Saul defended himself and shifted blame — He refused correction → he lost his kingdom. Prov 14:12 — There is a way that seems right to a man… end is death Prov 15:5 — A fool rejects his father’s discipline… A friend says: “You gossip a lot; it hurts others.” Foolish response: “I only speak truth — and why do you care? Others do worse!” They protect ego, not relationship. RESULT → relationship damaged, growth blocked   THE EVIL RESPONSE: Attack & Reject / Walk Away   Titus 3:10 - Warn a divisive person once, then twice; after that, have nothing to do with them.   The evil / hardened responder doesn’t just reject truth — he sees truth as a threat. He may: Cut relationship Attack the messenger Spread division Leave rather than repent He says: “YOU are the problem — I reject both truth AND you.” John 8 When Jesus speaks truth, the pharisees feel threatened... They seek to kill Him instead of change. Mark 10 The rich young ruler walked away from Jesus because truth threatened his lifestyle. Other Scriptures 2 Tim 4:3 — people rejecting sound doctrine Prov 29:1 — one who hardens his neck will be broken beyond remedy Practical Example A pastor lovingly confronts someone living in sin. Evil response: “You are judging me! I’m done with this church!” They walk away from truth and relationship. RESULT = separation, destruction   HOW THIS RELATES TO GODLY RELATIONSHIPS   Love shares Truth and Truth builds relationships. But only if we respond in love also. Response Attitude Effect on Relationship Wise Adjust myself Strengthens Foolish Adjust truth Damages Evil Reject truth & relationship Destroys Where truth is received → relationships flourish Where truth is debated → relationships suffer Where truth is rejected → relationships end   OUR DESIRE IS TO BUILT GODLY RELATIONSHIPS   Rom 8:5 - For those who are living according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh [which gratify the body], but those who are living according to the Spirit, [set their minds on] the things of the Spirit [His will and purpose].   1 Cor 2:6-7 - Yet we do speak wisdom among those spiritually mature [believers who have teachable hearts and a greater understanding]; but [it is a higher] wisdom not [the wisdom] of this present age nor of the rulers and leaders of this age, who are passing away; but we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the wisdom once hidden [from man, but now revealed to us by God, that wisdom] which God predestined before the ages to our glory [to lift us into the glory of His presence].     HOW TO CULTIVATE A WISE HEART   Love first John 13:35 - By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.”   2) Pray for teachability Psalm 51:10 - Create in me a clean heart   3) Slow to speak James 1:19–20 - …quick to listen   4) Listen for truth, not tone Even imperfect rebuke may contain truth. 5) Invite correction Prov 27:6 - Faithful are the wounds of a friend   Ask: “What do you see in my life I can grow in?” Practice repentance   Repentance = changing direction — not defending yourself If we want godly relationships, we must be the kind of people who respond well to truth.

Building Godly Relationships #1 | Pastor George Lehman

The Empowered* Christian (*to give power or authority) Pastor George Lehman God has put all the ingredients you need for a successful life in His word The promises of God are of NO value to us until, through obedience, we come to understand the nature of God through His word. This is the truth but in so many of our lives it’s not a reality. How?  By reading His word and gaining “knowledge”.   2 Corinthians 8:7 (Amp) – Now as you *abound and **excel and are at the front of everything, in faith-in speech – in knowledge. *abound = plentiful; to be rich ** excel = higher in quality Yes, we are talking about the importance of KNOWLEDGE. An empowered Christian is one who walks in a higher, richer, quality of knowledge. John 8:31-32(Amp) – 31So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, ‘If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples. 32And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free.’ The level and quality of your “knowledge” will empower you to walk by “Faith” and a “Holy overcoming lifestyle”. It’s clearly seen in an Empowered Christians life Matthew 12:33 – Jesus compared our lives to a fruit tree – A tree (man) is recognized by its fruit …   True story of East Berlin years ago was controlled by the communists.  West Berlin was free. One day some people in East Berlin took a truckload of garbage and dumped it on the West Berlin side. The people on the West Berlin side could have retaliated by doing the same thing. BUT instead they took a truckload of canned food, fancy goodies, bread & milk and neatly stacked it on the East Berlin side. On top of the stack of food they placed the sign: “Each gives what he has.” Here Paul compliments the church for what He recognizes in them. Romans 15:14 (Amp) – Personally I am satisfied about you, my brethren, that you yourselves are rich in goodness, amply filled with all [spiritual] knowledge and competent to *admonish and counsel and instruct one another also. *admonish = urge, advise, remind, warn You cannot give what you don’t have – to bless, encourage and uplift people. Don’t ever underestimate the power of knowledge. 2 Peter 1:2-3 (NIV) - 2Grace and peace be yours in abundance… (HOW) through the KNOWLEDGE of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness (HOW) through our KNOWLEDGE of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Jesus’ own words: Matthew 13:11-12 (Amp) In verse 11 – Jesus, speaking says to the disciples… The Holy Spirit brings knowledge to us about the secrets of God. v12 – For whoever has (spiritual knowledge) to him will more be given and he will be furnished richly so that he will have abundance; but for him who has not, even what he has will be taken away (the enemy will rob it from you, Not GOD, it will be a result of your own Ignorance think of the Parable of the Sower). Here is a real stern warning as to what we do about all the Sermons and word we are regularly hearing. Boy, are we going to be held accountable Hebrews 2:1-3 (Amp) 1Since all this is true, we ought to pay much closer attention than ever to the truths that we have heard, lest in any way we drift past [them] and slip away. For if the message given through angels [the Law spoken by them to Moses] was authentic andproved sure, and every violation and disobedience received an appropriate (just and adequate) penalty, How shall we escape [appropriate retribution] if we neglect andrefuse to pay attention to such a great salvation [as is now offered to us, letting it drift past us forever]? For it was declared at first by the Lord [Himself], and it was confirmed to us and proved to be real and genuine by those who personally heard [Him speak].   Paul to the church: 1 Corinthians 15:34 (Amp) - Awake [from your drunken stupor and return] to sober sense and your right minds, and sin no more. For some of you have not the knowledge of God [you are utterly and willfully and disgracefully ignorant, and continue to be so, lacking the sense of God’s presence and all true knowledge of Him]. I say this to your shame. This in the Amplified bible is one of the heaviest rebukes we will ever read, as a result of our ignorance We’re talking about being “empowered” by “knowledge”.   Proverbs 1:7 (Amp) - The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline.   “Wisdom” is the ability to use the “knowledge” you have received. To live wisely, talk wisely, act wisely, think wisely. Isaiah 11:9b (NKJV) – For the earth shall be full of the KNOWLEDGE of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.   Proverbs 1:22 – How long, O simple ones [open to evil], will you love being simple? And the scoffers delight in scoffing and [self-confident] fools hate knowledge? It’s not so much hating knowledge – it’s the deliberate [opsetlike] choice not to: Acquire knowledge, or be obedient to knowledge Hear this:- Galatians 6:7 – Do not be deceived and deluded (fooled) and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained or mocked by mere pretensions or professions or by His precepts being set aside).  [He inevitably deludes (fools) himself who attempts to delude (fool) God.] For whatever a man sows that and that only is what he will reap.   The sad truth is this: There is so many Christian’s walking around that are weak, defeated, ineffective and unproductive, because they have never bothered, discovered or developed their full potential as believers in their Knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. They are not “Empowered Christians”. SO!! How can a Christian be “Empowered”? (“given power” – authority) One most certain way is: Through knowledge of the WORD of God. Then wisely applying the WORD effectively and appropriately as a way of life. James 1:22 – Be doers of the word, not merely listeners to it. You need to make a real heart commitment too, Never take getting knowledge for granted or be slack about it. Read your Word, study it, meditate on it, growth will come. You’ll be surprised what an “Empowered Christian” you’ll become.   CLOSE Daniel 11:32b (Amp) – But the people who know (have knowledge) of their God shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do *exploits (for God). *exploits = bold and daring. Remember the story of the garbage – each one gives what he has!! What do you have, what’s in you to give right now??????????????? AMEN      

God’s Masterplan Theme: Discovering the Divine Design Behind Life’s Chaos Main Scriptures: Romans 8:28 | Proverbs 3:6 | Jeremiah 29:11 Supporting Scriptures: Ephesians 2:19-22 | Romans 12:2 | Psalm 31:15 “The Cathedral Builders” You know, I’ve been thinking about that beautiful Ken Follett story, The Pillars of the Earth. It tells of generations who built the great cathedrals of Europe — those massive stone churches that sometimes took over a hundred years to finish. Some builders spent their whole lives carving one arch or laying one foundation stone — work they would never see completed. Fathers handed the project to their sons, and sons to their grandsons. They didn’t have the full picture. They just trusted the master builder’s plan. And when, generations later, the cathedral finally stood complete, it took everyone’s breath away. Every hidden beam, every unseen stone, every strange angle suddenly made sense. That’s how God works with us. We only see the dust and the scaffolding — but God, the Master Architect, already holds the finished design. One day, when we look back, we’ll realize: not one stone, not one season, not one tear was wasted. God Has a Masterplan, Even When You Don’t See It Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” We live in fragments — but God works in full pictures. He is weaving together every joy, every loss, every detour into His divine design. Sometimes the pieces don’t fit yet, but heaven’s view will show how every moment connects. What we call chaos, God calls construction. Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in Your hands.” Even when you can’t see progress, your life is safely in His hands. He is the Builder who never abandons the project. Joseph’s story reminds us: the pit, the prison, the palace — each was a part of God’s blueprint. God’s Plan Requires Our Trust, Not Our Map Proverbs 3:6 – “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Faith doesn’t demand the full map — it trusts the One who draws it. God often shows us one step at a time, not the whole journey. When we try to control the plan, we limit what God can build. But when we surrender, His grace straightens every crooked line. Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Transformation happens when we stop fighting the blueprint and start trusting the Builder. He’s not only designing our path — He’s shaping us to fit His design. Just like a GPS recalculates your route when you take a wrong turn, grace recalculates your life to align with His will. God’s Plan Builds Us Together for His Glory Ephesians 2:19-22 – “You are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of His household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.” God’s Masterplan is not just individual — it’s collective. He’s not building isolated lives; He’s building a living cathedral. Each of us is a stone in His structure, joined together in Christ. When you play your part — serve, forgive, love, obey — you become part of something far bigger than yourself. Every prayer, every act of faith, every sacrifice becomes part of a spiritual structure where God’s presence dwells. Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord… Those plans always include others — God’s vision is a community of faith built upon Christ the Cornerstone. God’s Plan Always Leads to Faith, Hope and Love 1 Corinthians 13:13-“Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” God’s design doesn’t end in ruin — it ends in resurrection. Even in seasons that feel unfinished or broken, the Master Architect is still building. When you can’t trace His hand, you can still trust His heart. When you can’t see the pattern, remember the promise. He never wastes a season; He never abandons a project. We Trust the Architect   Isaiah 55:7-9 - Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord , And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord . “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.'   You may be standing in the middle of scaffolding today — surrounded by dust, unsure what God is doing. But one day, you’ll stand back and see the masterpiece. You’ll realize that every storm, every delay, every unanswered prayer was a stone in the cathedral of God’s purpose for your life. So tonight, place your plans back in His hands. Let the Master Builder finish His work in you. “Don’t just ask God to show you His plan — ask Him to shape your heart to fit His plan.” Because when you trust the Architect, even the pieces that don’t make sense right now will one day shine with His glory.

“Brain washing #6” by Pastor George Lehman   God has taken us to a place of complete satisfaction and Joy beyond material gain.” Galatians 4:4 (NIV) - But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman…   (Gen 3:15)   The manger and the cross stand at the two extremes of our Saviours life. He was laid in a stranger’s stable at the beginning – and a stranger’s grave at the end.  This one amazing gift from God has changed the world forever. #6 It’s time to release your minds to your WEALTHY PLACE. Psalm 66:12 (KJV) - Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through the fire and through the water:  but Thou brought us out into a WEALTHY PLACE.                                                        God with us, Immanuel, has made this possible and achievable. We really need to go over to action and release our minds to our un-limited WEALTHY PLACE.  Your life and circumstances will never change until you set your mind for increase. The phrase "God has taken us to a “Wealthy place" means: It’s so that we can live out fully the wealthy place. Spiritual Wealth - *Closeness to God* Spiritual growth, strong faith, connected to God. - *Inner peace*: Experiencing peace, joy, and contentment that comes from a strong faith. - *Spiritual gifts*: Discovering and using your spiritual gifts and talents. Material Prosperity - *Financial abundance*: Having sufficient or enough financial resources to meet one's needs. Relational Wealth - *Meaningful relationships*: Building and nurturing strong, loving relationships with family, friends, and the church community. - *Support system*: Having a supportive network of people who care and encourage. - *Sense of belonging*: Feeling connected and valued within one's community. Personal Growth - *Personal development*: Growing and developing as a disciple of Jesus, acquiring new skills, and overcoming challenges. - *Self-awareness*: Gaining a deeper understanding of oneself, one's values, and one's purpose. - *Resilience and adaptability*: Developing the ability to cope with challenges and adapt to changing circumstances. Ultimately, the phrase "God has taken us to a wealthy place" means that God has brought us to a place of abundance, blessing, and prosperity, whether spiritual, material, relational, or personal. That wealthy place is what you have been given freely as 2 Peter 1:3 (GW) - God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness* through the full knowledge of Him who called us to share in His own glory and goodness.                                                 * Everyone of us have a wealthy place within us – the capacity to receive it. Your wealthy place is where “God’s promises are”. 2 Corinthians 1:20 (ISV) - For all God’s promises are yes in Him and so through Him we can say Amen to the glory of God. Do you realize just how much God desires to enlarge your tent – in other words, your life? Remember the Jabez prayer: 1 Chronicles 4:10 (NKJV) - Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.  So, God granted him what he requested.                                                                                     This is your time for ENLARGEMENT and INCREASE. No matter how much you have failed, been hurt, or disappointed or what you’ve gone through, no matter what your past, your future is BRIGHT.   “It’s time to break free.”  Jesus Christ came to make the way so you can break free and live in your WEALTHY PLACE. Isaiah 54:2 (Amp) - Enlarge the place of your tent and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out; spare not; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes. You need a good brainwashing to start claiming the truth of God’s prophetic word for your life. Allow the truth to stretch your mind out of depression, worry, fear, doubt, self-pity, loneliness, hurt, embarrassment, past failures OR any other negative emotions. Galatians 6:9 (Amp) - And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint. If you don’t become weary, and your heart is pure, when you seek God with all your heart, SOUL and MIND, you become an OPEN vessel in which all the promises can be fulfilled. (They are Yes an Amen.) Psalm 1:1-3 (Amp) - “ Blessed (happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather. 2 But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night. 3 And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity]. Psalm 35:27 (Amp) - Let those who favor my righteous cause and have pleasure in my uprightness shout for joy and be glad and say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, Who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant. It’s time for you to release your mind to your WEALTHY PLACE. The devil knows there is greatness in you – so he will try to stop you.  But 1 John 4:4 says: 1 John 4:4 (Amp) - Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. Your broken heart may seem great; BUT greater is He that is in you. Your problem may feel overwhelming; BUT greater is He that is in you. Your situation may feel out of control; BUT greater is He that is in you. Your financial problem may look big; BUT greater is He that is in you. Your anxiety, worry, stress and fear may feel like a mountain; BUT greater is He that is in you. No matter what is in your life right now or who is trying to trip you up greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world!!    Win the war in your mind. #1 Realize where the war is. Your Thoughts-Action-Habit-Character-Destiny #2 Get a grip on your mind, get a grip on your life. Prepare your minds for action #3 Removing stumbling blocks that prevent your destiny. Deal with what is causing you to stumble #4 Don’t let “Double-mindedness” destroy you. You will be unstable in ALL your ways #5 Mind expansion causes life expansion. God has already equipped us for great things Release your mind to your WEALTHY PLACE.

The God of more than enough Genesis 17:1 - “I am God Almighty…” Psalm 23:5 - You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Luke 6:37b-38 - …forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Pressed down, shaken together and running over. 1 Corinthians 2:9 - No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has in store for those that love Him. Matthew 13:58 - And so He did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Philippians 4:19 - My God shall supply all of your needs according to his riches… John 15:4: Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 2 Chronicles 32:27 - 27Hezekiah had very great wealth and honor, and he made treasuries for his silver and gold and for his precious stones, spices, shields and all kinds of valuables. 28He also made buildings to store the harvest of grain, new wine and olive oil; and he made stalls for various kinds of cattle, and pens for the flocks. 29He built villages and acquired great numbers of flocks and herds, for God had given him very great riches. Deuteronomy 28:2 - And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Ephesians 3:20 - He can do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or imagine.

“Brain washing”#4 by Pastor George Lehman   Many people would rather believe their doubts and doubt their beliefs.   Previous sermons #1 Realize where the war is #2 Get a grip on your mind, get a grip on your life #3 Remove stumbling blocks that will prevent your destiny It’s in the application, not information. It’s not to condemn you or make you feel guilty or like a failure.  It’s allowing the Holy Spirit to convict you to change what need to change. Change is not change until you change   James 1:5-8 (NIV) - 5If any of you lacks wisdom*, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault; and it will be given to him.  6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.  7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. (we cannot receive wisdom from God when we doubt) *Wisdom is the ability to use the KNOWLEDGE you’ve acquired WISELY Therefore, you need to get the word into your mind and into your life, you can’t use what you don’t have!! #4 Don’t let double-mindedness destroy you.   Have you ever thought – what produces the “up-today”, “down-tomorrow” mentality and many times an unsure, insecure, intimidated feeling about tomorrow? What causes people to be in the church today, shouting, praising, confessing their faith in Jesus AND end up missing church and cells and many times no longer involved at all? The answer is “doublemindedness”. “Double mindedness is a very dangerous and destructive state of mind. That’s why we need to be brain washed to make sure we are single minded. James 1:8 says, “That it causes people to be UNSTABLE in ALL their ways.  All you do. (Inconsistency is when our actions and our thoughts are not consistent with God’s word) It’s like being in a rowing boat without OARS on a rough sea. Up and down without control over your direction. It’s interesting to note the term “doubled-minded” in James 1:8. In Greek it is = “Dipsuchos”, which means vacillating (Wisselvallig) (fluctuate in opinion or purpose or resolution*). *Resolution:  temper or character (make promises you can’t keep) Divided loyalty between God and worldly desires. No wonder people change ministries, marriages, jobs – They’re not in it long enough to prosper and fulfil their God-given destiny. I have a newsflash for you… “Doublemindedness” will lead to failure and destruction.  A double-minded life will get you nowhere twice as fast. When your mind doesn’t know which way to go AND you’re not preparing it for action: (1 Peter 1:13 – Prepare your mind for action.) - You become prone to deception. To believe you ok with what’s not ok. - You’re an easy mark for the devil (like a wounded animal to prey, they isolate and attack). He will influence you with his deceptive devices of doubt, fear, worry and anxiety. Your mind becomes a dumping ground, so you receive the opposite to TRUTH = which is A LIE. Feed your faith and your doubts will starve to death. “Double-mindedness” will cause you to: - Lose, when you could win! - Cry when you could laugh! - Doubt when you could believe! - Be bitter & unforgiving when you could forgive and be free. Churches and ministries are being held back from experiencing the supernatural because of a LARGE number of its ranks are indulging in “doublemindedness”. How does it work? The process: Once “doublemindedness” has (infiltrated) entered the territory of your mind in your sub-conscious or conscious thought patterns. Instability is created. You become a victim of your own mind. You begin to lose control and the ability to make clear, productive decisions. The end result:  FAILURE and defeat. The Good news is, Praise God, in Christ Jesus we don’t have a “double-mind”, we have a SOUND MIND. 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV) - For God hath not given us the spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a SOUND MIND. A sound mind is not split between TWO opinions but is secure and stable.  It’s single-minded. By brainwashing our minds with the thoughts from the Word of God you can live like winners. It is the Word of God that you discipline your mind to think and meditate on that prospers your life. The more you train your mind to stay focused on God and His word, the more peace and security you will experience. Isaiah 26:3 (Amp) - You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose MIND [both its inclination and its character] is stayed* on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You. *stayed = Prop: Support that holds things up. That’s why it is so important that once you have received the Word of God in your mind, only you can make a determined decision not to allow negative thoughts of doubt, fear, worry, anxiety or confusion to steal, kill or destroy or override your word thoughts and trick you into “doublemindedness”. Continual study of Gods word, prayer and exposure to the anointed, spoken Word, faithfulness to church and cell attendance will help guard against “doublemindedness”. After hearing this word, you realise that you have allowed your mind to float in and out, back and forth and up and down in “doublemindedness”.  It’s not too late, you can change. Firstly, you must be willing to see and admit that you’ve been unstable in your thinking. Secondly you must be willing to receive correction. (Don’t let double-mindedness lead you to stubbornness and rebellion and a hardened heart). The enemy wants to keep your belief system unstable. James 4:7-8 (NIV) - Submit yourselves, then, to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you.  Come near to God and he will come near to you.  Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your heart, you who are double-minded. Paul gave specific instruction on how to identify and resist the enemy’s thoughts: Philippians 4:8 (KJV) - Finally, brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is HONEST, whatever is JUST, whatever is PURE, whatever is LOVELY, whatever is of GOOD REPORT, if anything is excellent and if there be any praise, think on these things. Every time one of those 650 000 approx thoughts comes into your mind, check it against this: Here’s the measuring stick: Is it true?  Honest?  Just?  Is it pure?  Lovely?  Is it of a good report? If it matches – let it in.  If it doesn’t – kick it out. Refuse entrance to anything that does not agree with the measuring stick. When you allow discouragement, depression, fear, doubts, worry, anxiety, frustration to camp out in your life, “doublemindedness” will be the result AND it will destroy you. In closing:  By brainwashing your MIND. Romans 12:2 – Don’t be conformed but transformed by the renewing of the mind, “so that you may prove for yourself what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect (in His sight for you). The longer you maintain a positive, productive thought trend, the greater your chances are for success, prosperity, victory and walking and living in the destiny God has already purposed for your life.  You destroy “doublemindedness”. This is not for a select few to achieve; it’s for everyone who will come.  Most of us are growing even with the very little bit of effort we put into our bible study, prayer life, our commitment to the ministry and lifestyle God has called us to. Le us aim to be Single-Minded, by brain washing our minds with God’s truths.

“Brain washing” #3 by Pastor George Lehman   If you don’t change your direction, you’ll end up where you’re headed. (You are either heading in victory or defeat)   Last 2 weeks #1 Realize where the WAR is. (ITS IN THE MIND) #2 Get a grip on your mind, get a grip on your life.   It’s in the application, NOT only the information!!! That the success & breakthrough comes #3 Removing stumbling blocks that prevent your destiny Stumbling blocks cause us to lose direction. Take a look around where you’re sitting and find five things that have the color blue in them.  In the same way, you’ve probably noticed that after you buy a new bike or car, you promptly see that make of bike or car everywhere.  That’s because people find what they are looking for. At times in our lives, God seems strangely absent, but the problem is not that God has disappeared. We simply lack a “God” mindset”.  The devil wants you to focus on the negative things that will distract you. When we develop a Holy Spirit sensitivity by “Brainwashing our minds” with the Word of God.  We soon begin to see His work everywhere.  You only see what you look for. What we PERCEIVE [begryp] what we allow in our minds (our thought life); and that Determines what we RECEIVE, it’s either what God’s word says about the situation OR a deceptive lie form the devil; Determines what we ACHIEVE. It’s either God’s successful thoughts and plans for your life … OR a failure mentality and never really fulfilling God’s best for your life. You have a destiny and it’s related to God’s prophecy to what He has written and spoken about you in His Word. The devil knows this – he will do all he can to infiltrate your mind to upset God’s destiny for you.  He will try find your weaknesses or cracks in your Spiritual Armour. 1 Corinthians 2:8(Amp) – None of the rulers of this age or world perceived and recognized and understood this, for if they had, they would never have crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Peter 1:13 – “Prepare your minds for action” The devil’s idea is to get you and I to think thoughts contrary to God’s Word concerning His Will and Plan for us. All you need is a good brainwashing – Change your mind to what God’s Word says. Proverbs 23:7 (KJV) - “For as (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he.” No matter what situation you find yourself in today, let it be known that God wants you to prosper and has ordained you to have an abundant life.   Ephesians 1:4-5 (Amp) - 4Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy (consecrated and set apart for Him) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love.  5For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will [because it pleased Him and was His kind intent]   Ephesians 3:20 (Amp) - Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams] This is the truth - it’s up to us to limit that power OR allow it to set us free.  It all goes back to the battle in the mind - what you know and believe, that you will ACHIEVE. 2 Peter 1:3 (Amp) - For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite (necessary for success) and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue). The work is complete – don’t let the devil lie to you. Quite often we become discouraged because we don’t understand that: - God has empowered us with supernatural strength. - Not just to endure, but to overcome. Enduring is good but man it’s about time you overcome now too!! Because we haven’t grasped this, we often use our problems, our faults or weaknesses to make excuses FOR NOT fulfilling our God-given destiny. Here’s some advice:  If you feel weak or your situation seems hopeless - Stop saying so! Stop confessing it! That song that says: I will say (SPEAK IT OUT) “IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL” Joel 3:10 - “Let the weak say, I am strong” If you say what the enemy presented to you, he wins.  Confess God’s word and you WIN. Get a grip on your MIND, you get a grip on your LIFE. Our words have so much power, Jesus said Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV) - But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.  For by your words, you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. Your thoughts establish your circumstances. Proverbs 12:14 (Amp) - From the *fruit of his WORDS a man shall be satisfied with good…” *fruit = in other words, what’s growing in you; comes out of your mouth – either good or bad. Whatever God says He will do for you, HE WILL DO! Psalm 89:34 (NIV) - My covenant will I not break or profane (disregard), nor alter the thing that is gone out of My lips.                                 If you don’t read the Word of God, you can’t know the Word of God. It’s that simple. If you don’t know the Word of God, you can’t speak the Word of God. If you can’t speak the truths of God’s Word, you’ll speak your own ideas out of Ignorance and destroy God’s destiny for you. This will lead to stumbling blocks the enemy uses to derail your destiny. Our theme –#3 “removing stumbling blocks, that prevent your destiny”.  The stumbling blocks are rooted in the heart.  If you let these stumbling blocks become rooted in the heart, they become serious issues to deal with and repent of. Some of these stumbling blocks are: #1 IGNORANCE (you are only as ignorant as what you are allowing yourself to be.) It’s one of the most subtle stumbling blocks, because it keeps people from realizing or correcting their lives. You see revelation knowledge is the key to this mental battle.  (Feed the mind with ammunition.) Hosea 4:6 (Amp) - “my people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge” = IGNORANCE. #2 LOW SELF-ESTEEM God created you so HE knows your capabilities and your potential.  A poor self-image will prevent you from receiving God’s best for your life.  God’s work is always superior not inferior – “God don’t make no junk”. Example in Numbers 13 – 12 spies sent out by Moses.  10 had a low self-image.  2 (Joshua and Caleb) knew their God and who they were: Daniel 11:32 (Amp) - … but the people who know their God shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do *exploits [for God]. *exploits = bold and daring #3 LAZINESS This is a big stumbling block, because it prevents you from wholeheartedly pursuing God.  Laziness will always find excuses not to do anything. Or to do the bare minimum. Proverbs 13:4 (Amp) - The appetite of the sluggard (LAZY one) craves and gets nothing, but the appetite of the diligent is abundantly supplied. Lazy people also want, but get zippo, Nothing. #4 MEDIOCRITY [Middelmatig] (It’s the top of the bottom but the bottom of the top) It’s a real stumbling block, because people don’t strive to produce excellence in their lives. Good enough is okay Average is well enough. Well God is an excellent God and He expects us to serve Him in excellence.  In our prayer life, our praise and worship, our Bible study, in our relationships. Mediocrity and laziness will cause you to miss your blessings. #5 DISOBEDIENCE It’s more than just a stumbling block; disobedience is a SIN. Deuteronomy 11:26-28 (NIV) - 26See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse – 27the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; 28the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known. God makes it clear:  The choice to obey is always ours - obedient MIND = obedient LIFE. We don’t have time to discuss major stumbling blocks like: Pride/ Anger/ Un forgiveness/ Bitterness Don’t be unwilling to change – if God’s word says, “one thing” and you’re doing another, “THEN CHANGE!” Romans 12:11 (Amp) - Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord.                                       God will empower you, but you need to “Remove the stumbling blocks”.  Change the attitude of your mind and pursue the destiny God has already planned for you. If you don’t change your direction, you’ll end up where you’re headed.