We want to commemorate and acknowledge a pivotal moment in our spiritual journeys: the death of our old selves and the beginning of our new lives in Christ. Just as every wedding marks the beginning of a new union and every birth celebrates the start of a new life, this service symbolizes a significant starting point in our Christian journey—the initial dying to self and the resurrection to walk in newness of life. The Apostle Paul describes this in Romans 6:4, “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
This initial point of death to our old nature is crucial. It is the moment we acknowledge our need for a Savior, repent of our sins, and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord. However, this transformation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Paul also reminds us in Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Today, we symbolically lay to rest our old selves—the sinful nature, the selfish desires, and the ways that led us away from God’s will. We do this to fully embrace the new life Christ offers. As we journey through this service, let’s reflect on the significance of this initial dying and the continuous renewal that molds us more into the likeness of Christ. May this service remind us that in dying to ourselves daily, we truly find life—abundant and eternal in Jesus Christ.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
CHANGE A KID’S LIFE FOR ETERNITY!
Thank you to everyone who helped make it possible for 22 youth to attend the Arise Youth Conference this week. Now, let’s support each young person with our prayers, asking for a transformational week in their lives. Thanks again for your heart for kids.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
Romans 12:2, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
In our old lives, our thinking was often shaped by worldly perspectives, leading us away from God’s truth.
We were deceived, believing lies that led to pride and arrogance.
We lacked spiritual understanding, unable to see the world through God’s eyes.
This mindset created a barrier between us and the divine wisdom that God offers freely to those who seek Him.
The Apostle Paul encourages us to renew our minds in Romans 12:2.
This transformation is essential for discerning God’s will.
When we renew our minds, we align our thoughts with God’s truth, allowing His wisdom to guide us.
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
DAILY SCRIPTURE READING: Start each day by reading the Bible.
Reflect on passages that speak to your identity in Christ and His promises for your life.
MEMORIZE KEY VERSES: Commit to memory verses that encourage and renew your thinking, such as Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
REPLACE LIES WITH TRUTH: Identify any lies you have believed and replace them with God’s truth.
Write down the lies and then find corresponding Bible verses that speak the truth.
PRAYER FOR WISDOM: Regularly ask God for wisdom and discernment.
James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
REFLECTION: Renewing our minds is an ongoing process that requires intentional effort.
By focusing on God’s Word and allowing it to transform our thinking, we can discern His perfect will and live lives that honor Him.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to renew my mind daily with Your Word. Guide my thoughts to align with Your truth and give me the wisdom to discern Your will. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
ASSIGNMENT: Today, take a few moments to write down three lies you have believed about yourself or your life.
Then, find three corresponding Bible verses that speak the truth about each lie.
Memorize these verses and recite them whenever the lies come to mind.
Until Tomorrow
With A Shepherd’s Love,
Pastor Jackson
MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Steve Michaels
Tom Graham
Gail Sparks
Ellen Boyd
Friend of Linda Hodge
Joy Gilbert
Amy Garner’s Mom & Dad
Coly/Connor – Allison’s G’sons
Dan Haines
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
George & Linda Alexander
James Burnette
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
Joe Shelnutt
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher