This coming Memorial Day, thousands of churches will pay tribute to our country’s fallen heroes, recognizing the liberties and freedoms we enjoy, and remembering the brave men and women who have given their lives for our country. Memorial Day is focused upon those who have fallen in the service of our country, but at the same time it is an opportunity to focus on Christ. Here are five ways to observe Memorial Day, and bring honor to the King of kings and Lord of lords.

1.  Explain the peace that will one day be ours.

Those who have given their life for our country have experienced the tragic bloodshed that conflict brings. Our world is rocked by strife and division. But one day there will be peace. The author of that peace is Jesus himself, who is described in Scripture as the Prince of peace. Memorial Day recognizes the valor of those in military combat, but a day is coming when we will live in a time of unparalleled peace, brought about by King Jesus.

2.  Draw attention to the ultimate glory that believers will one day receive.

It is only right that we remember our nation’s military heroes, both past and present. During your Memorial Day observance, it is a wonderful idea to publicly recognize and thank those men and women who are involved in the service of country. Give them honor. In doing so, remind people that one day all believers will receive honor for their service. Although not all of us will enlist in the armed forces of our country, we will nonetheless hear the “well done,” from Jesus. This is another opportunity to glorify Christ during Memorial Day.

Choose one of our beautiful Memorial Day PowerPoint designs.

3.  Explore the parallels between physical military involvement and spiritual combat.

Ephesians 6 reminds us that our ultimate conflict on earth is not between flesh and blood; we engage in spiritual warfare. As we remember this world’s conflict and the bravery of those who have defended our freedom, let us also remember the spiritual battles that every believers must fight. As we engage in spiritual warfare, we have our commander in chief with us. “The armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords” (Rev 19:14-18). Let us praise this King of kings, in whose army we fight.

4.  Show true gratitude.

Memorial Day is at its core about expressing gratitude for those who have fallen in the service of our country. After the death of thousands of soldiers following the Civil War, our country’s leaders instituted this as day to remember, in solemnity and heartfelt gratitude, the ultimate price that was paid. As you commemorate this day, be thankful. Show true gratitude. As believers, true gratitude ultimately directs to God. As you remember those who have fallen, praise Jesus for how he has shown us true love and sacrifice, and taught us what real freedom is.

We’ve got all the Memorial Day church bulletin covers you’ll need!

5.  Exalt the one who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

We hold the deepest gratitude for the hundreds of thousands of soldiers who have given their lives over the ages, defending our freedoms and families. As we remember them, let us also remain aware that Jesus, too, gave the ultimate sacrifice. He laid down his life to secure a freedom which transcends any earthly freedom. Jesus gave his life to gain spiritual victory over sin, death, and hell. Memorial Day gives us a chance to praise our Lord for the price he paid, and the triumph he secured.

As you commemorate our fallen heroes this year, take the opportunity to remember the day’s significance while also honoring Christ.

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Newsletters are a great tool for churches to use. Whether you use a digital newsletter or a paper one, newsletters allow members to stay informed, be encouraged, and become more involved in the life of the local church. We’ve rounded up some of the best newsletter designs to feature, so you can get some ideas as to how your next newsletter can look.

1.  Easter Crown of Thorns Newsletter Template

This newsletter uses a large header image to grab attention and announce the newsletter’s theme. A defined color band crosses the middle of the page, providing a helpful visual anchor for the title and beginning of the copy.

2.  Church Lent Newsletter

Plenty of color and activity graces this newsletter design. The newsletter radiates an intense and expressive mood.

3.  Facing the Giants Church Newsletter

Newsletters that are more than just a few pages in length should have a table of contents. This newsletter uses the dark-colored image to the right to add this handy guide for finding articles of interest, and to get a preview of what’s in the newsletter.

4.  Living By Faith Church Newsletter

This traditional-style newsletter design uses a two-column format. Notice also how the image has a prominent position on the design.

5.  Family Church Newsletter

The most outstanding feature of this newsletter is its color and visual impact. At the same time, it has a clean, readable format.

6.  Missionary Outreach Church Newsletter

The map of the world picture covers more than one half of the first page, giving this newsletter instant visual power. At the same time, there is plenty of text on the first page, as well as a table of contents.

7.  Easter Cross Church Newsletter

This newsletter uses fresh colors and the familiar design of the cross to draw in readers.

8.  Community Church Newsletter Template

Most newsletter designs and templates provide a feature image at the top. This newsletter uses both the top and the bottom to provide color and interest.

9.  Guitar Newsletter Template

Because of the tilted image, this church update template gains a more space to use for the lead article.

10.  Refreshment Church Newsletter Template

A soft gradient in the background of this newsletter gives it a clean, peaceful feel. The gradient color shift from green to gray provides place for a two-column shift.

11. Summer Newsletter Template

Using an understated image, there is plenty of visual appeal and color in this design. In addition, plenty of negative space allows for easy readability.

The most important aspect of a newsletter is its content, not its design. But without a good design, people are less likely to read the content or to have a good impression if they do read it. It’s a good idea to think of the newsletter design as an integral part of the content. As you get your next newsletter content ready, keep these designs in mind, or browse thousands more designs at Sharefaith.

You’ll find that every one of these Word or Publisher templates is easy to use, enjoyable to format, customizable to the hilt, and always visually appealing. Stay informed on how to publish a newsletter, and how to make custom newsletters for your church.

Many Christians around the world will celebrate Pentecost on May 19, 2013. Some, however, may not understand the meaning of this traditional Christian celebration. Whether you have been observing Pentecost for years, or whether it is a completely new concept to you, here are a few reasons why celebrating Pentecost this year might be a good idea.

1.  It reminds us of the Holy Spirit, period.

For some Christians, the Holy Spirit is kind of like “the forgotten God,” as Francis Chan expressed it. We talk much of “God,” or “Jesus,” but the Spirit gets less attention. Maybe it’s because we don’t understand Him. Maybe we’re afraid of “getting all charismatic.” Whatever the case, Pentecost is worth celebrating if, for no other reason, we celebrate the Holy Spirit. In so doing, we neglect him no longer.

2.  It reminds us of the power of the Holy Spirit.

If a single word could be used to describe the events on Pentecost, it would be the word power. To a huddled group of discouraged disciples there came the sound of hurricane-force winds, the strange presence of flames above each head, and then an explosion of gospel witness that catapulted the Jerusalem church to a force that was too large to ignore. When several dozen men and women proclaim the truth among thousands of people, each one hearing them in his own language, you know something powerful is at work. Pentecost was where it started.

Get ready for Pentecost with beautifully themed PowerPoints and Bulletins!

3.  It reminds us of the importance of the Great Commission.

In order to really grasp the why of Pentecost, it helps to understand the when. Pentecost took place on the heels of Jesus’ final command, “Go and make disciples.” After a brief pause — like the calm before a mighty storm — the Holy Spirit arrived. A major part of his mission was to empower the disciples to fulfill Christ’s command. The injunction to make disciples of all nations and teach them all things is a tall order. Only the Spirit could aid them. When we celebrate Pentecost, we can’t help but realize the magnificent responsibility we have been given in the Great Commission.

4.  It encourages us in our labor.

The book of Acts opens with a bang — the Holy Spirit arrives, and the world is turned upside down (Acts 17:6). The remainder of the book of Acts chronicles the tireless labor of Peter, Paul, and others as they experience labors, imprisonments, beatings, being stoned, shipwrecks, journeys, danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from their own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. How in the world did they keep going? It was the Spirit. Throughout the entire book of Acts is the theme of the Holy Spirit’s activity. He appears on virtually every page in the book. Although the book is traditionally called “The Acts of the Apostles,” it is more appropriate to call it “The Acts of the Holy Spirit.” This should encourage us. We, too, are hard at work — in our churches, in our workplace, in our homes, in nurseries, in VBS, in sharing the gospel, and in living out our faith. Where do we get the strength to go on? It is from the Holy Spirit. Pentecost gives us a wonderful opportunity to look afresh at our God, the Holy Spirit, and experience the encouragement that He delights to give.
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5.  It gives us hope.

One of the reasons why celebrating Pentecost is such a glorious thing is because of its hope-giving power. When the disciples scurried off to their upper room retreat after Jesus’ ascension, they may have been a rather discouraged group. Here they were — a handful of people, invested with great truth, and commissioned with great promise. But where was the power? What could they do? The arrival of the Holy Spirit was nothing short of shocking. In his power, they had hope. Things were happening! Thousands were converted! The church mushroomed in size! The truth was proclaimed in every language! Here was hope! But what about today? Is there any hope for us today? Absolutely yes. We have the same Holy Spirit, and he is no less powerful than He was at Pentecost.

6.  It overwhelms us with a sense of awe and reverential worship.

Those who meditate little upon the greatness of God will little appreciate his infinitude. But when we look, really look, at our God in all his fullness we can’t help but be overwhelmed. Taking opportunity at Pentecost to meditate upon the Holy Spirit will create in every believer a yearning for his power and a sense of humility in the face of his grandeur. This Holy Spirit whom we so easily take for granted — living in us — is God, in all his holiness, infinity, majesty, and glory. 

This year, at Pentecost, take some time to read some in the book of Acts, especially chapter 2. Take some time to pray, thanking the Holy Spirit for who he is and what he does. Take some time to meditate upon his person. You will likely experience the joy, hope, and encouragement that he provides.

At Sweetwater, we’re here to help you meet the audio needs of your congregation while maintaining a careful eye on your financial resources. With over 30 years of working with houses of worship, we’re ready to put our experience to work for you!

When church leaders get together to discuss, “how can we increase membership?” the first answer is usually not “improve our website!” Although most churches have websites, they aren’t viewed as the church growth solution. This assumption, however, deserves a second look. Your church website may very well be one of the most important factors in growing your church.

By way of disclaimer, we recognize that church growth isn’t dependent upon gimmicks or tricks that we come up with. For all its importance, church growth isn’t even dependent upon a church website. Christ is the builder of the Church. He is the one who is ultimately responsible. Yet we, as members of the church and disciple-makers in the world, have a responsibility as well.

Within the context of the 21st century, church websites are important to a church’s evangelistic task. The spread of information, even gospel information, involves online transfer— social networks and web searches. People work online, shop online, socialize online, and, yes, they look for churches online. Consider how these factors of a church website can help increase your church’s attendance.

Massive exposure.

According to Internet World Statistics, there are an estimated 2.4 billion people online. When your church gets a website, the audience potential for your message is huge. Realistically, only a fraction of those people will see your church website, Nonetheless, websites are the church’s way to get her news out there. Websites are the new church billboard, and Yellow Pages, and community bulletin board, and radio spot, and newspaper listing, and on and on. When seeking a church in your area, where are people going to look first? Google. Even out-of-town guests weekending in the area may look for local churches online.

Your web presence is incredibly important. People are looking online for churches to attend, and if you are not present where people are looking, then they probably won’t find you. It’s that simple.

Viral blogs.

Pastor, have you ever thought about blogging? We’ve discussed the benefits that pastors and churches can experience from blogging. There is another benefit — church growth. People read blogs, good ones that is. If you gain a presence and audience as a blogger, it can contribute to a greater increase in your church attendance. Many of the pastors who actively blog are the pastors who lead large congregations. Some of these pastors can identify the roll that blogging has had in their ministry success. By letting your voice be heard online, you are also providing a greater opportunity for people to physically attend your church.

Top-notch marketing.

In the 1980s, church marketing was all the rage among Christians. Bobbing in the wake of Willow Creek’s full-speed-ahead growth, many church leaders were wondering, “how can I grow my church like Willow Creek?” Authors and publishers responded with a stream of how-to books on creating seeker-sensitive services and relevant messages. None of those books had anything in them about church marketing online. Today, however, that’s where it has to start. When a potential visitor sits down at his laptop or mobile device and taps in “churches in Anytown,” your church’s marketing efforts have already begun. Are you on Google places? Do you have a website that will come up in search results? Even when Mr. Potential Visitor clicks on “Your Awesome Church” what is he going to see? A vintage 1990s website with flashing fonts, prophetic predictions, and animated Gifs (hopefully not)?  A website presents a church for who they are. It’s putting your best foot forward. You would be wise to position your marketing efforts in such a way that your website gets the attention it deserves.

Social interaction.

Good websites are integrated with other social media outlets. Since people gather on social sites like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Google+, this is another place for your church to have a presence. A church website serves as the central point for these social networks. A church website becomes carried around in a wider social sphere as people like pages, tweet a blog article, or share a YouTube video.

Increased giving.

What does giving have to do with church websites and church growth? Look at it this way. Online tithing has been shown to increase giving within a church. A church with more discretionary funds can use these funds toward increasing sanctuary size, improving outreach, and enhancing ministry in the community. All of these things contribute towards greater growth. In an indirect way, using a website with online giving can contribute towards increased attendance.

These are just a few of the ways that your church website can increase attendance.

A website isn’t just a tool to bring more people into your church. It is, ultimately, a tool to help you fulfill the great commission — to spread the gospel farther and wider.

This is what Sharefaith church websites help you to do. If you need a church website, need a better church website, or know someone who does, Sharefaith’s solution is priced for the ordinary church, designed for the non-tech pastor or admin, and delivers a solution that befits a megachurch.

Discover a web solution for your church.

Although Mother’s Day is focused upon mothers, it gives everyone of us an opportunity to reflect upon God’s teaching that have to do with mothers. After all, everyone on the planet has a mother. As we approach Mother’s Day, give these verses some careful consideration and meditation. Whether you are a mother, will be a mother, or just have a mother, they will encourage your heart and strengthen your soul.

1.  Exodus 20:12 “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

2.  Leviticus 19:3 Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father, and you shall keep my Sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.

3.  Deuteronomy 4:9-10 “Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children’s children.

Get ready for Mother’s Day with beautiful PowerPoints and Newsletters!

4.  Deuteronomy 6:6-9 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
5.  Deuteronomy 11:19 You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.
6.  Psalm 115:14-15 May the LORD make you increase, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
7.  Psalms 127:3-5 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

You won’t find a bigger or better collection of Mother’s Day bulletins.

8.  Proverbs 14:1 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.
9.  Proverbs 14:26 He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.
10.  Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
11.  Proverbs 31:31 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Worship backgrounds and motion video loops enhance the Mother’s Day mood.

12.  Joel 1:2-3 Hear this, you elders; give ear, all inhabitants of the land! Has such a thing happened in your days, or in the days of your fathers Tell your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children to another generation.
13.  Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
14.  Luke 18:28-30 And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.” And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life.”
15.  Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
16.  Colossians 3:20-24 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.

     

You’ll love our charming collection of Religious Stock Photos.

17.  1 Thessalonians 2:7 but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children.
18.  1 Timothy 5:3-4 Honor widows who are truly widows. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God.
19.  Titus 2:3-5 Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
20.  1 Peter 1:22 Love one another deeply, from the heart.

Nearly any Christian can tell you why we celebrate Christmas and Easter. But what about the ascension? For centuries, churches observing the Christian calendar commemorate Ascension Day, an event that falls forty days after Easter.  In 2013, Ascension Day is celebrated on Thursday, May 09. The meaning of Ascension Day is obvious from its name. But what is its significance?

Christ’s ascension is absolutely crucial to knowing who Christ is and what he did. It is also absolutely important for the daily life of every believer. When Christ ascended into heaven, it wasn’t just because he had finished things up, and needed to get back to heaven to rest and unwind. There is more to it than the fact of Christ’s departing. Instead, the ascension is of vital importance for the whole of the Christian faith.

Here’s why.

1.  We know Christ’s earthly work was successful.

Christ’s birth marked a new epoch in world history. So did his death. So did his resurrection. Like these epochal events, Christ’s ascension also marks a massive shift in the course of the world’s events. No longer was Christ personally present. Now, he was ascending back to his father. He had predicted that this time would come. Now, it was here. By the act of his ascension, he was providing us with a valuable lesson — everything he came to do was complete. There were no lingering tasks to complete, no final documents that needed to be filed, no last words to be recorded, no more people he had to heal. It was all done. And he could return. This simple fact that the ascension happened is an assurance that his earthly work was, in fact, an entire, complete success.

Get ready for Ascension Day with our collection of PowerPoints.

 2.  We celebrate the Lord’s Supper or eucharist in anticipation in his return.

Every Christian church celebrates the Lord’s supper, also known as the eucharist. In this event, we are reminded ourselves of Christ’s death and resurrection. Scripture tells us “as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” This celebration is part of our ongoing proclamation of Christ’s ascension, in that we observe it continually until Christ returns. By testifying to Christ’s death and resurrection, we are also testifying to the importance of his ascension.

3.  We are indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

Shortly after he ascended, an enormous spiritual change took place. The huddled group of depressed and timid disciples burst forth in an explosion of miraculous healing, intrepid proclamation, and inspired activity. What brought about this change? The Holy Spirit. As Christ promised, he sent them the Holy Spirit — God’s very presence within believers. The coming of the Holy Spirit, which we celebrate at Pentecost, was contingent upon Christ’s ascension. Far from being a side effect of the ascension, the Holy Spirit’s arrival on the scene depended on Christ’s ascended return. Now, with the Spirit’s presence in our lives, we are given the task of going and make disciples in this power.

This Ascension, remind others of the joy and fulfillment we have in the Holy Spirit.

4.  We experience Christ’s role as High Priest.

If there were no ascension, there would be no “Christ interceding for us” (Romans 8:34).  ”who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. When Paul wrote, he listed in order Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension, remarking on the blessing of his intercession on our behalf. What a blessing to know that we have Christ himself interceding on our behalf before God.

5.  We yearn for Christ’s coming.

When Christ ascended, he promised that he would return someday. The period in which we live is a time of looking forward to his return. The first recorded words after Christ ascended came from the angels who came to celebrate the event — “Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” This is a comforting promise that goes with us every day of our lives and inspires our evangelistic action. 

Ascension bulletins provide another way to remind your people of the significance of the event.

6.  We look forward to the place he is preparing for us (John 14:2).

I have often wished that Christ could be here on earth right now. Jesus anticipated this desire. That’s why we have the Holy Spirit. And perhaps that’s also why Jesus left his disciples with these remarks, “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” (John 14:2) Christ returned to heaven to prepare us a place. Obviously, we don’t know what kind of preparations he is making, but we are assured that we have a lot to look forward to.

Fewer and fewer churches are observing the ancient feast days — commemorating such events as Pentecost or Ascension Day. But there is great value in realizing the majestic impact of such events, and how they shape our very lives and define our faith.

As you prepare for your church’s mother’s day event, you’ll find all the Mother’s Day media you’ll need. Along with these important Mother’s Day verses, you’ll also find beautiful visual accompaniments.

1. I Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is patient; love is kind. Love is not jealous; is not proud; is not conceited; does not act foolishly; is not selfish; is not easily provoked to anger; keeps no record of wrongs; takes no pleasure in unrighteousness, but rejoices in the truth; love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

When it comes to the Bible’s most well-known passage on love, mothers are beautiful examples of the high calling of love that is described.

2. Philippians 4:8

Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of a good report — if there is any virtue and if there is any praise — think on these things.

Moms are a source of honor, goodness, and loveliness. As in all things pure and virtuous, we are encouraged to think upon such things.

3. Ephesians 6:1-3

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, because this is right. Honor your father and mother which is the first commandment with a promise – that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life.

In this well-known passage, children are exhorted to the task of honor. All of us — whether we are children or are raising them — should remember to give honor to mothers.

Get ready for Mother’s Day with beautiful PowerPoints and Newsletters!

4. Psalms 128:1-2, 5-6

How happy is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways! You will be happy, and it will go well for you…You…will see your children’s children.

This passage speaks to the joy and happiness of families who fear God and walk with him — eventually experiencing the blessing of grandchildren

5. Psalm 127:3

Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

This classic passage on motherhood praises God as the giver of children, describing them as a heritage and reward from on high.

6. Isaiah 49:15

Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?

This passage praises mothers as symbols of amazing compassion, never forgetting their beloved children.

You won’t find a bigger or better collection of Mother’s Day bulletins.

7. Psalm 139:13

You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb

We praise God for the miracle of life, and the role that mothers have.

8. Isaiah 66:13

As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you.

God likens himself to a mother, bringing to mind the incredible comforting ability of a loving mother.

9. Ruth 1:16-17

For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.

Ruth, though a foreigner recently bereaved from her husband, declared her undying love for her mother.

10. Luke 1:46-48

And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed

Mary, perhaps the most well-known mother in the Bible, made this statement when she learned that God had chosen her to bear the Christ child.

Worship backgrounds and motion video loops enhance the Mother’s Day mood.

11. 1 Timothy 5:1-2

Encourage…older women as mothers.

In describing the life of a church, Paul told Pastor Timothy to treat women with the warm encouragement that he would show to his own mother.

12. John 19:25-27

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home

This passage demonstrates Christ’s love and care for his mother, giving us a lesson on how we should treat our mothers.

13. Luke 1:5-6

His wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. Both of them were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commandments and regulations blamelessly.

An often-overlooked passage in Luke provides the picture of a godly woman. She had no children of her own, but she looked forward to seeing the child Jesus.

14. Psalm 113:9

He gives the barren woman a home, making her the joyous mother of children. Praise the Lord!

Mother’s Day is difficult for some women who may desire to be a mother, but who face the inability to bear children. In this passage, God describes how he gives women great joy, even those who experience the pain of barrenness.

15. Proverbs 23:22-25

Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding. The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will be glad in him. Let your father and mother be glad; let her who bore you rejoice.

Throughout Scripture, children are encouraged to care for their mother and to bring them joy.

    

You’ll love our charming collection of Religious Stock Photos.

16. Proverbs 31:2 8

Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her.

This classic passage on the “virtuous woman,” provides a beautiful picture of a mother who experiences the joy of her children and husband.

17. Proverbs 6:20-22

My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching. Bind them on your heart always; tie them around your neck. When you walk, they will lead you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; and when you awake, they will talk with you.

A mother’s teaching is to be prized. In this Proverbs passage, instruction from a mother is used as a symbol of a faithful companion all through one’s life.

18. Leviticus 19:3

Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father, and you shall keep my Sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.

God gives us mother as a gift, and he commands that we revere them, just as we are careful to obey all of God’s commandments.

19. Exodus 20:12

Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

Along with reverence, we are to honor mothers. Whatever our age, whatever our place in life, our mothers always deserve our honor.

20. 2 Timothy 1:5

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.

Scripture provides us with this picture of a mother and grandmother who were faithful in both their belief and teaching their children. Their faith was well-known to Paul, as he instructed his protege, Timothy.

Keep these verses in mind as you head towards Mother’s Day. This is a meaningful day for moms, and a wonderful day for everyone to express appreciation and gratitude for them.

Fear. It is a primal feeling, yet it permeates every aspect of our lives. With nauseating power, we encounter fear where we least expect it and most despise it. We feel it in relationships. We’re nagged by fear in our careers. We sense its gnawing presence while driving on the interstate, when looking into the face of our child, or even when going to bed at night. Fear is everywhere. And fear is powerful.

Why we experience fear. 

There seems to be every reason to fear, especially in light of recent events. When is the next Boston tragedy going to happen? What will happen if North Korea launches a nuclear missile? Will I get caught in the crossfire of an urban gunfight? Will an explosion erupt nearby?

Fear is as familiar as breathing itself. It’s part of life. It’s part of being human. It’s part of existing. Is there any place on this planet that is exempt from the danger of natural disaster, the fury of depraved humans, or the terrifying uncertainties of our own future, our health, or our eternal destiny?

Fear grapples with questions as mundane as “does this water contain dangerous chemicals” to “what’s going to happen to my soul when I die?”

We experience fear for the same reason that we experience joy, grief, anger, or contentment. It is an emotion — a powerful, visceral emotion with profound physiological effects. Fear can control us.

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Get the truth about fear. 

Because fear meddles with our emotions and confuses rational thought, we need a clear perspective on our fear. We need some source of truth and wisdom that comes from outside ourselves. Biology and psychology provide helpful information about fear, but the Bible speaks directly and unmistakably to the subject of fear.

Good Fear. Bad Fear.

The Bible’s information on fear is fascinating for one major reason. It tells us both to fear and not to fear. The reason for this paradox becomes clear once we understand a few of the passages on fear.

Bad Fear

When we encounter fear in the Bible, it is often in a negative context (1 John 4:18). Repeatedly, we read things like “fear not” (Isaiah 54:4), and “do not fear” (Revelation 2:10). Even in the face of danger, violence, persecution, and the like, God gently encourages us not to fear (1 Peter 3:6). The sense we get from just a cursory biblical survey of fear is that it is a negative emotion. Fear is somehow distasteful or unpleasant. We know this innately. When fear is present, we are not comfortable.

Good Fear

In other places, the Bible presents an altogether different view of fear. In fact, fear is equated with things like “honor” and “love” (1 Peter 2:17). What is going on here? Why does the Bible talk about fear in such a way? In Proverbs, “fear” is contrasted with “evil” (Proverbs 3:7). On one occasion when God was comforting Isaiah, he told him “do not fear.” But then in the next sentence, God told him, “let [God] be your fear, and let him be your dread” (Isaiah 8:13).

The difference between good fear and bad fear has to do with the object or cause of that fear. The vague and uncomfortable fear that we feel in the face of life’s circumstances can and should be replaced by fear of God — the awe and wonder at his majesty and holiness.

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How to Fear the Right Way

God affirms the presence of fear in the human experience. And he tells us how to manage it. He himself is the solution (Psalm 34:9). Fear can’t be wiped away by some moral resolve or by building up steely nerves and stalwart bravery. Fear has its antdote in a person who commands an entirely different form of fear — godly fear. Fear is okay; we just need to direct our fears in the right way.

But how?

Let us dispense with the advice, however well meaning, to “face your fears,” “defy your fears,” “overcome fears,” or “be brave.” Those things are right, as long as they are placed within the right context. The real response to fear is God-directed fear. This is a kind of fear that we can manage, because of what it involves (2 Corinthians 7:1).

To fear God is to honor him. Fearing God means respecting who he is, acknowledging his character, and allowing ourselves to be overwhelmed in awe and even love (Psalm 118:4) Fear is to know God — in all his untamed, uncontrollable, infinite power — yet to accept it in humility. Fear is trust (Psalm 115:11).

Ordinary fear is raw, disturbing, vulnerable, exposed, tragic, and disturbing. It is anything but assuring. Fearing God, however, is a life-changing experience of goodness, comfort, assurance, warmth, security, and liberation. The contrast between the two fears couldn’t be more amazing, especially when you experience it.

In Psalm 27, David writes,

Fear — the right kind of fear — is healthy and right. It allows us to defy the controlling power of life’s circumstances.

There is a person who welcomes your fears. God is prepared to swallow every fear you bring him.

• Do you fear about finances? Bring it to God. 
• Are you afraid about your health? Take this fear to God.
• Are you fearful that your children will “turn out alright?” Tell God about your fear.
• Is your commute to work a fearful experience? God wants to own this fear.
• Do national events or uncertainties bring you fear? God can take these fears.
• Is there someone in your life whom you fear? Carry this fear with you into the presence of God. 

See what happens to your fear when God steps into the picture. Fearing God displaces every other kind of fear with an all-encompassing sense of his presence, power, and perfection.

Fearing God is the solution to fear itself.

For over 20 years, Projector SuperStore has been the premier source for affordable Audio and Visual equipment online. Our experts have worked with hundreds of churches across the nation and we’re here to help you integrate the right technology for your specific needs and bring your message to your congregation.

Churches have fallen on tough times. Giving is down. Way down. From established churches to startup churches, it seems like everyone is reeling from the economy. With lost jobs or slashed incomes, churchgoers just aren’t giving. Thousands of churches are experiencing budget shortages and major cutbacks. What can churches do to increase tithing?

1. Talk about giving.

Church leaders are understandably hesitant to talk about giving. After all, it’s almost like making a personal appeal for more money. According to one denominational survey, 50% of church attendees thought that money and giving should not be preached about. Like other crucial issues in the life of the church, however, money needs to be discussed.

The way in which you address this issue is important. Few preachers want to come across as begging, nagging, or wheedling for more money. There is a gracious way to explain what the Bible says, and then allow the Holy Spirit to do his work.

2. Explain the church’s financial situation.

In addition to explaining God’s Word on the subject, people need to hear how the church is doing financially. Facts motivate. As people understand the situation, they will be more inclined to contribute. If your church is experiencing financial difficulty, tell them about it. If the church can cut back in some areas, tell them how. Allow people to see the church’s budget. Be open about pastoral salaries. An atmosphere of openness and honesty will encourage people to give.

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3.  Start finance classes or small groups.

Even though we live in an affluent culture, there are many of us who don’t know how to manage our funds. Many are addicted to debt. There is a way to educate people about finances, enhance spiritual growth, and free them to give — all in one fell swoop. Education. In addition to a preaching ministry that deals with giving, consider starting elective classes that cover the topic in detail. In classes or small groups, people can get busy with workbooks, assignments, reading, and interaction. Because of the nonthreatening and collaborative environment of a small group, it is far more likely that people will respond favorably to financial instruction. As families get a grip on their money management, they will learn the importance of tithing. By having a clear view of finances, they will then be free to give to the church.

4.  Hold a free financial workshop with financial advisors.

Depending upon the size or location of your church, there may be finance professionals who attend. If your church has an accountant, a certified financial planner, a knowledgeable businessperson, or a finance professional, consider having them deliver workshops on money. Before asking someone to help, please make sure that their personal testimony and lifestyle is exemplary. Also be sure that they realize the importance of giving themselves. Hosting a free “how to” workshop on managing money is a great way to help people. Usually, people understand that they should give to the church. The reason why they don’t give is they feel like they can’t due to their other financial pressures. Once they establish a budget and realize that they can and should give, they will. Giving comes from a cheerful heart and financial freedom. Basic financial workshops hosted by the church can help people fulfill their responsibility to give. (If there is no one qualified to teach a financial workshop, you may consider asking a local financial advisor to offer a pro bono session for the church.)

5.  Have a Financial Focus Week.

One way to improve giving is to have one week dedicated to the theme. Christian radio stations and charity organizations often hold fundraising events or weeklong fund drives. While the church need not have “fundraising” events per se, it is perfectly legitimate to set goals, encourage giving, and make it a big deal. The extra incentive and attention of a financial focus week may be just what people need to encourage them to give.

6.  Seek outside help for financial education.

The church is blessed with several organizations that offer materials, lectures, and courses on money management. These groups make it their business to inform people about their finances and encourage them to give. Here are three well-known financial ministries that you can contact for outside help with your church giving:

• Dave Ramsey (www.daveramsey.com)
• Crown Financial Ministries (www.crown.org)
• Brian Kluth – Maximum Generosity (www.kluth.org)

7.  Use a pledge campaign.

Many churches have found that a Pledge Campaign is a powerful means of encouraging giving. In a pledge campaign, church members determine an amount that they can regularly contribute to the church, usually on a monthly basis. Using special envelopes, a pledge card, or some other means, they will then resolve to give to the church that specific amount each month. The power of a pledge campaign is that it simplifies things for people. They determine what they will give, and simply contribute that amount each month. Pledge campaigns are also memorable. They are motivational. They can even be fun. A pledge campaign can be an encouragement to your people, not to mention a great way to increase giving.

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8. Offer quality.

At the risk of sounding secular, there is one important, indispensable, and invaluable means to grow your church offering:  Give people something of quality. If people are giving to the church, they expect to get something in return—something worth coming for. If you are careless about the ministry, producing shoddy sermons, not visiting shut-ins, allowing church programs to be in disarray, letting the church grounds become overgrown, failing to spend time with church volunteers, and poorly managing church finances, don’t expect to have a church of givers. We are accustomed to “get what we pay for.” If people contribute to the church, they expect some type of return on their investment. Just as churchgoers are fulfilling their spiritual responsibility to give their money, the church leadership must fulfill their responsibility to minister diligently. While the church ought never to degenerate into a people-pleasing social club, it should also never skimp on diligent, accurate, delivery of quality spiritual help. A church with a quality ministry can expect increased giving from their people.

9.  Invite a consultant.

There are ministry consultants who, as part of their services, will analyze a church’s situation and giving in order to make recommendations for improvement. The church can’t function without funds. These ministry coaches or consultants give pastors and church leaders a powerful outside perspective, pointing out ways that churchgoers and attendees can be better encouraged to give.

10.   Make it easy to give.

In a final catch-all category, make it easy for people to give. It shouldn’t be hard for people to contribute to the church. Here are some simple suggestions:

• Use online giving. With a secure site and a way to accept card payments, the church can make it easy for a lot more people to give. Many people today pay exclusively using cards or online transactions. In response, one third of churches now offer online means for contributions to the church. If your church does not provide a way to give online, make sure you implement this into your church website.
• Pass the plate. Don’t be afraid to pass an offering plate. Many seeker sensitive churches have obliterated all signs of financial contribution in the fear of offending people. What we fail to realize is that the church is a place for believers. Believers are commanded to give. Giving is an act of worship. Go ahead an use an offering plate. It makes it easy for people to give.
• Make the offering a meaningful time. The offering isn’t just one thing to get out of the way in the order of a service. It is important. Encourage people to give worshipfully. Play music. Project a verse on the screen. Make it a focused time of reverence. You may even with to preface the offering time with a short devotional or a Scripture verse on the theme of giving or generosity.

In conclusion, don’t be greedy, but don’t be afraid to tackle the issue of giving to the church. The ten tips above will help, but the most important thing you can do is to pray. God never suffers from financial shortcomings, and He will provide for your church the necessary finances. Ask Him.

For over 20 years, Projector SuperStore has been the premier source for affordable Audio and Visual equipment online. Our experts have worked with hundreds of churches across the nation and we’re here to help you integrate the right technology for your specific needs and bring your message to your congregation.

By now, just about every church has a website. Good so far, but having a website is not enough anymore. Now, churches must make the most of it. Gone are the days where you could just toss up a website and leave it. Instead, a website is a living, breathing part of your overall effort to reach the community and to spread the good news. Here are some of the top tips for making the most of your church website.

Before we launch into these tips, it’s important to wrap your mind around the importance of a church website. It’s easy to think of a church website as an Internet placeholder — kind of like a cyber sign. It’s there. You have a website. Done. Right?

Wrong.

A website needs to be constantly curated, finessed, updated, refined, enhanced, and active. A passive site is a dead site. With that in mind, we are suggesting ways to improve your church website through both regular updates and some basic enhancements. Although the ideas outlined below may take some time, it’s time that is well spent to increase your outreach and effectiveness.

• Integrate your church calendar. A church is a happening place. The website is the perfect place to help people get up to speed on events. Simply integrate your  Google calendar into your church website. Done. 
• Add sermons — video or audio. If you haven’t added a sermon player to your website, it’s time to start. In case “adding a sermon player” sounds like a daunting effort of coding and tweaking, don’t worry; it’s not that bad. Providing audio recordings of sermon is helpful for people who want to sample a church’s preaching, catch up on a missed sermon, or fill their work commute with some excellent listening. You can even add podcasts to make it easier for people! Learn how to add a sermon player to your website. 
• Connect with social media. Introduce your church website to the thriving world of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or whatever other social sites your church is on. If your church already has a social presence (and we highly recommend it), then be sure to connect it to your church website. In addition to providing a more integrated online presence, social connection also helps search engine rankings. 
• Use an image gallery. People love pictures. Chances are, if you add a photo gallery to your church website, it’s going to get a ton of hits. Plus, it provides a personal and fun look at church life.
• Launch a pastor’s blog. Many pastors have found that a blog gives them the ability to articulate things that they are learning, and to provide an additional way to encourage and edify people. Your blog could go viral and reach millions, as some pastor’s blogs have. More likely, it could be a way to keep your own church family in the loop about things you’re learning, resources you recommend, and devotional thoughts you have.
• Use online donations. This is virtually guaranteed to increase your church giving. It’s called online tithing or online donations. Fewer people are carrying around legal tender or checkbooks anymore. For churches to engage with people where they are, it’s important to allow them to give online. This is the power of online giving. Online giving is provided for free with Sharefaith church websites.
• Change out website banners. Web banners and sidebar banners are an awesome visual enhancement to a website. In addition to just plain looking good, they can inform people at-a-glance about upcoming events. Check out our gallery of predesigned website banners, and easily add one using the integrated image editor.
• Invite multiple website editors and contributors. A church website isn’t a one-person thing. It shouldn’t be. Invite others to collaborate with you to provide content, change graphics, update announcements, add sermons, and perform other important website tasks. The more people that can contribute to the upkeep of the website, the easier it becomes. Plus, it’s more likely that your website will be updated more regularily, making it a more valuable resource.
• Use your mobile device to update your site. Want to keep your site updated on the go? No problem. In a few minutes, you’ll be able to perform any important church website update from the convenience and mobility of your iPhone or Android phone.
• Optimize your church website for the search engines. One of the most important things you can do for your church website is to make it easy for the search engines to find it, thus placing you more prominently in search engine results. In other words, if people are looking for “churches in Anytown, State,” you want your church website to pop up at the top. How do you do this? It’s called SEO — search engine optimization, and it’s not hard. By using a Sharefaith church website, employing the right keywords, and making a few regular adjustments, you’ll be set. Read more about church website SEO in our introduction to SEO and advanced tips. Quick tip:  The more regularly you update your site, the better you’ll rank in the search engines.

In that list, we’ve merely scratched the surface. However, if you start doing a few of the things outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your church website into something of value.

All of these features — and a ton more — are available using Sharefaith church websites. We have created the fastest, most powerful, most innovative, and most effective way for churches to launch a website. As you can see by the list above, you will have a website that is easy to make the most of. Visit our church website page to get started and learn more.

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