APRIL – Resurrection Power: Living the RISEN Life
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
The service powerfully declared that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event—it is the opening of a brand-new and living way for every believer. We were reminded that sin had condemned us, writing “guilty” across our souls, but mercy stepped forward in the person of Jesus Christ. His blood tore the veil, broke the curse, and rewrote our story forever. The resurrection shattered the finality of death and opened wide the door to God’s presence, not as strangers but as beloved sons and daughters. Because the tomb is empty, we now live with hope, freedom, and authority, called not just to celebrate Easter once a year but to walk daily in resurrection life.
The message challenged us to respond personally: to lay down the burdens Christ already bore, to recognize that we are never alone because His Spirit lives within us, and to share the hope we carry with a broken world. The resurrection changed how we live, how we worship, and how we face tomorrow. It is not just history—it is our daily reality. The stone rolled away is not just an invitation to observe, but to enter fully into abundant life. Today, the call was clear: don’t just remember the resurrection—live it. Let the victory of Jesus Christ be seen through every word, every action, and every heartbeat.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE POWER OF A SINGLE STEP
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” — Psalm 37:23
Often we stand at the edge of a choice, peering into the unknown, our hearts pounding with anticipation—and sometimes fear. Yet the Lord who formed the universe also orders the footsteps of His children. He does not sit aloof; He delights in directing our paths one step at a time. Just as a loving parent guides a small child by the hand, so our Heavenly Father invites us to trust Him with our first, hesitant step today.
When God called Abram to leave his homeland of Ur, He gave no map or detailed itinerary—only a promise: “I will shew thee a land” (Gen. 12:1–4). Abram obeyed, packing up his tents and family, stepping into uncertainty at God’s command. He did not linger in fear of what lay ahead, because he believed the promise-giver would honour His word. And in Abram’s obedience, God established a covenant that would bless nations for generations.
- Embrace Today’s Step: Identify one thing God is calling you to do now—perhaps a hard conversation, a change in routine, or a leap of faith in ministry—and take it.
- Release the Blueprint: Resist the urge to have every detail before you begin. Pray for clarity on today’s step and trust God with tomorrow’s plan.
- Record Your Journey: Keep a “step journal.” Note when God confirms each step, no matter how small, so you can look back and see His guiding hand.
- Seek Godly Counsel: Share your next move with a trusted friend or mentor who can pray with you and speak encouragement when doubt rises.
Picture yourself on a mountain trail shrouded in morning mist. You cannot glimpse the summit, yet you place one foot in front of the other, confident that the worn path underfoot is reliable. Each step reveals just enough ground to continue, and before you know it, the mist lifts and the vista unfolds. In the same way, God lights our path “two feet ahead” (so to speak), leading us step by step into the clarity He will one day fully reveal.
- What is one “next step” God has laid on your heart today, and what fear or hesitation accompanies it?
- How have you seen God order your steps in the past when you moved forward in faith?
- Who can you invite alongside you to pray and encourage you as you take this step?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You that You delight in guiding my journey. Forgive me for the times I’ve waited for a full view of the road instead of simply trusting You for the next step. Give me courage to obey Your voice today, and remind me of past faithfulness when doubt creeps in. Surround me with wise companions who will speak Your truth into my life, and keep my eyes fixed on You rather than the fog ahead. May each small step draw me closer to the fulfilment of Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Ann Stanley – Heart Stent Today
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Beth – A Friend Of Amy Garners
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Debbie Foskey
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gayle Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim’s Sisters – Ann & Brenda
Lee Cronan
Lillianna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Mike, Gwen, Michael Rice Family – Friends of Blount’s – Car Accident
Mrs. Franklin
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scarlett – Marynell’s Granddaughter
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Theresa Bain’s Granddaughter
Tom Witcher