Harvest Blog

Blind?

Fri, 01 May 2026 10:00:05 GMT

"The god of this age [Satan] has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." 2 Corinthians 4:4

If the things of God are clear to you--that is you understand and have accepted the Gospel of Jesus Christ as Truth and have invited Him to be your Lord and Savior, then you have been blessed beyond belief. What unfortunately happens to many who've been so blessed is they initially start their walks with Christ with passion and grace, but wind up ignorantly judging those who are still controlled by the enemy. All is not lost, since Almighty God is and will always be more powerful than the one we call "the god of this age." Instead of arrogance and judgementalism, we should instead remember where we come from and pray for those who are still there!

"As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient." Ephesians 2:1-2

Pastor Jim Kilby

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“That's Not Christian!"

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:00:14 GMT

I always think it's ironic when someone who has no knowledge of the Bible claims a Christ follower, "Doesn't act like a Christian!" As a minister its happened to me many times, and if you're a born-again Christian it's either happened to you or it will someday soon. While it's important to reach out to the unsaved world, it's also important to understand motives of those who are not Christians will often be to tear you down and make you afraid to act out your faith. Whether they know it or not, they are on the payroll of the evil one, doing his bidding with their words and deeds. So stand strong! If their comments have any merit, then make the change that's necessary. If not, then press on! The Lord's your Judge and your mission is irrevocable.

"As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable." Romans 11:28-29

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Self-Control?

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:00:04 GMT

I get a substantial amount of mail from young people who claim to have accepted Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior, and who still seem to struggle with serious sin. I'll tell you quite frankly that I could not condemn one of them, since I'm still in the same struggle myself. The only difference is that those who become serious about their faith will quickly learn that in addition to prayer, attending church and Bible study, Christians are called to practice the simple yet difficult act of "self-control." No amount of religious thinking will substitute for even a moment of prayerful self-control!

"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Self Mutilation?

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:00:31 GMT

"Cutting" or "Self-Mutilation" are quite common among certain segments of today's teens. I get a fairly substantial amount of mail on the subject, and I’ve see the telltale marks on even more teens in our teen centers and even at church. Although many may find the concept of purposefully cutting oneself ridiculous, there are actually some very understandable reasons for it. 1. Control issues (feeling out of control or being controlled by parents, society, etc., and wanting something they can control). 2. For attention (usually only cutting in areas where everyone can see the marks or scars). 3. Demonic attacks (or demonic possession). They cut themselves (and do even worse things) because they've begun to believe Satan's lies about their self worth. 4. Numbness--wanting to feel SOMETHING, even if its pain. At any rate (and in any one of these cases), Jesus has got the "real" answer--not something done with a knife when no one's looking, but something done on a cross when everyone was looking! If you or someone you know is involved in cutting themselves, I suggest a thorough read of a workbook by Dr. Neil Anderson called "Ministering the Steps to Freedom in Christ." The issue is really not the self-mutilation, but likely something much deeper and more sinister.

"They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an evil spirit came from the tombs to meet him. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him any more, not even with a chain. For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones." Mark 5:1-5

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Wrong?

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:01:53 GMT

I got in a momentary disagreement with a friend tonight. We were filling out some paperwork when he insisted it was one date on the calendar, when I thought it was another. I looked at my trusty calendar watch and boldly told him he was wrong. There was one problem, however. Last month only had 28 days, and for some strange reason, I let the days of the month expire without realizing that my watch was wrong. It's now the 14th of the next month, and I just realized I've been several days off for two weeks! It's seems crazy, but my trusty timepiece was in error. All the while I remained positive I was right to trust it--even arguing for whatever it asserted! And... all the time a was in error. I wonder... is there anything you are trusting that is wrong?

"There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." Proverbs 14:12

My friends, I urge you to trust Jesus alone!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Dealing With The Enemy?

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:00:17 GMT

I know I'm no "Letterman," (I'm actually glad about that!) but I still have a few top-ten lists up my sleeve. Here's one I've put together through the years (some borrowed, some original) for dealing with the Enemy. Take some time today to look up these Scriptures. If you've only got a few minutes or don't have a Bible, use Google to get you there fast. You might also file this devotional away for use the next time you feel your under attack.

Top 10 List for Dealing With the Enemy

1. Read and memorize the Word (Ephesians 6:17)

2. Know you are not alone (Matthew 28:20) (1 Peter 5:9)

3. Know the enemy's power is limited (1 Peter 5:9)

4. Know there is always a way out of ungodly situations. (1 Cor 10:13)

5. Be humble in all you do. (1 Peter 5:5-6)

6. Go vertical with everything (PRAY!) (Eph 6:18)

7. Deal with sin quickly (Ephesians 4:27)

8. Rejoice that there is never a spiritual war without a purpose (Romans 8:28)

Worthless?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:00:37 GMT

Imagine that you worked your whole life toward piling up a huge mountain of good deeds. Following the last seconds of your life, you approach God and present Him with an excellent reminder of all you had done. "I did everything could to get into heaven" you might say. At which point God would tell you that your work was prideful, and even the attempt to enter heaven on your own merits was arrogant and selfish. You had attained nothing. In fact, less than nothing. Absolute perfection is required for entering God's presence.... you'll enter it shrouded by the perfect blood of Jesus Christ, or you won't enter it at all. God says that even our best deeds are like "filthy rage" apart from Christ. Save yourself the life of "piling up deeds" and spend your life saying "thank you" to the Savior that awaits your confession that you and anything you'll ever accomplish are worthless without Him.

"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away." Isaiah 64:6

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Of Hammers and Men!

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:00:48 GMT

Pastor Jim Kilby

Names?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:35:21 GMT

“Now these are the people of the province who came up from the captivity of the exiles, whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had taken captive to Babylon (they returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to their own town, ² in company with Zerubbabel, Joshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum and Baanah): The list of the men of the people of Israel:” (Ezra 2:1-2)

Friends,

I always feel a temptation to skip over lists of names in the Bible. Reasonably, a quick scan usually gives us the information we need in those more detailed sections. But every once in a while, I like to slow down and let some of the names roll around in my mind… Rehum, Baanah, Mispar.

I have no idea how to pronounce them, so I give them my own pronunciations and start wondering about who they might have been. What were their days like? What were their roles in their communities? Who were they?

They were real people with real lives, doing the work God had set before them.

Last night, Aaron and I had the opportunity to share about Harvest at our local church. They are planning to host a clothing drive for the thrift store, and we were able to share a little bit about the heart behind the ministry.

Afterward, I chatted with a few people, including Mrs. W, who told me she had been donating for years and reads these newsletters. (Hi, Mrs W!) Of course, my awkward response was, “Well, then we’re basically best friends!”

For a long time, I was the one who put these newsletters into envelopes, sealed them up, and dropped them off at the post office. I became so familiar with the names on that mailing list. Even though I didn’t know most of them personally, I knew they were real people who cared enough about Harvest to support the work.

Just like those names in the Bible were real people, so are the people who quietly make ministries like Harvest possible.

Every donation, every bag of clothes, every prayer, every person who chooses to care about the needs of others — they all matter. Their names may not appear in a list in Scripture, but they are known to God, and their faithfulness makes a difference in the lives of the people we serve.

And sometimes, when I see those names or meet someone who has been supporting the work for years, I am reminded again that ministry is never the work of just a few people. It is the quiet faithfulness of many.

CELEBRATIONS!!!

Ms L – Received Second Harvest Thrift Store, store credit so she could get a couch, making her home more comfortable for herself and her five children.
Ms B - Received help with gas and electric bills, as well as some counseling resulting in payment plans with both companies so her family will be able to cover the bills going forward!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Getting Our Attention?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:00:29 GMT

Birthday Celebration?

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:00:19 GMT

If you live long enough you'll finally have enough birthdays you'll begin to forget how old you are! I know that sounds weird to my teenage audience, but it's true. What's weird is that as I've grown as a Christian I've become less and less excited about celebrating my birthday. Not because I'm getting older mind you, but because it seems weird to have the spotlight focused on me. The truth is that if it went by unnoticed by anyone but my close family that would be fine with me. This world and everything in it is the Lord's. Even the days that He has given me (and you) are His. For those who've just celebrated Jesus' birthday at Christmas (December 25th), you might be surprised to find that Jesus was actually born during the summer months (it's true!). The Bible doesn't even record His actual birth date. I believe that's because He was not here to have things be about Him. He was here to do the Father's work. If we're here to do the same, then birthday celebrations will probably lose their luster for us too.

"just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 20:28)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Reasons Why?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:00:28 GMT

If you ask enough people who follow other religions or claim to be atheists why they don't believe in Jesus, you'll find there are just about as many reasons as there are people to ask. If you investigate enough, you'll also find that the reason (or reasons) don't really matter much to a person who is looking for a reason not to believe. The truth is that people who choose not to believe do it because of evil desires in their hearts. It's just that simple. So, answer their questions if you can (and if they have any), and live out your faith before them, but know that it is the Lord's work to break through to their hearts. All the great answers in the world won't be enough for someone who wants to be their own god.

"This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil." John 3:19

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Promises, Promises!

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:00:38 GMT

Once after I preached a rather convicting sermon several people met me at the door of the church and proclaimed "We loved your message!" Generally this is not a time when I feel drawn to rebuke people, but I must admit I was a little shocked. My response probably could have been a little more tactful, but in the moment all I could come up with was, "Maybe you weren't listening!" They smiled and retreated, not knowing if I was kidding or not, I suppose. My point was that hearing the Word of the Lord is not the point, but agreeing with it, conforming to it, and actually doing it! Far too often God's people claim His promises and His blessings but fail to follow through on the requirements of His Word. When this happens, just like the good Father that He is, He disciples His children. The following is just one of a series of passages where God's judgment was coming on His people for just this reason.

"Listen to the wail of the shepherds; their rich pastures are destroyed! Listen to the roar of the lions; the lush thicket of the Jordan is ruined." Zechariah 11:3

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Mercy!

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:00:27 GMT

I'm kind of a hard-nosed guy when it comes to seeing things in black and white. I don't have any tolerance for things I feel are dishonest or against what I believe are God's standards. While that may be fine at times (like lovingly helping people see the truth), judgment is really not my job. Judgment is God's job 100% of the time. I find it ironic and profound God had every reason to judge us harshly, and yet found it in His heart to give us mercy, while we who have no reason to judge, quite often do it anyway, and yet find it difficult to show mercy to others. The truth is we need to always be aware we have been saved by grace and are no longer under the law, but in many ways we need to live like we still will be judged by it. The fact remains we are still sinners. Whenever we are standing in judgment of someone else, we are sinners sitting in God's chair. A good remembrance of the law will help keep us out of HIS chair!

“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!" James 2:12-13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Blessed?

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:00:25 GMT

Let's say you're standing on the curb near your school (or work, or home, or anywhere for that matter) trying to help a scared and crying young person who's terribly lost. While you are doing your best to get a phone number for a parent out of them, someone runs up and steals your bike (or car, or skateboard, or... well, you get the point). You were just trying to do the right thing and still you were wronged. You ask yourself, "Why didn't God protect me?" Later, you see the very people who ripped you off having dinner at McDonalds, only they don't see you. Do you:

A. Scratch up their car with a key (because they seriously deserve it).

B. Call the police.

C. Thank God for the blessing!

The Horns?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:00:01 GMT

Churches, youth groups, ministries and the like can be some of the roughest and most unforgiving places on the planet! Not all of them are as well supervised as they should be. As a result, much pride and arrogance can build up among those who've been there for a while. If these people were truly operating by the Holy Spirit, then all the fruits of the Spirit would be theirs (peace, patience, kindness, etc). Instead, the fruit of the sinful nature is often allowed to run amuck. The result is that those truly desiring to come to Christ; those hurting and needing help, are pushed out of the way by those who demand things be their way, or by those who suck the Body of it's strength with their drama! I've seen far too many good people leave churches and ministries because of such sinful activity. Know this for sure... None of that stuff has anything to do with Jesus. Keep looking for a Bible believing church where sin is called what it is and where grace abounds. God has your back on this one and He needs you in a place where you can grow strong and useful for His kingdom!

"Because you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and another." Ezekiel 34:21-22

Pastor Jim Kilby

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For Sale?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:35 GMT

I've had a lot of young friends through the years start their Christian walks in a powerful way. Unfortunately, some of the ones that seemed to have the most promise of doing great things for the kingdom no longer seem to have much of a walk at all. Some decided that drinking alcohol and partying were more "fun" and they faded away. Some decided that their boyfriends/girlfriends sexual advances were a more interesting pastime and they faded away. Some work too much to attend church anymore, and some now tell me that they never really believed in the first place. I know that the Word will continue to work on their hearts, but the fact remains that some of the hearts of those who once said they believe are simply too hard to see their faith grow. What seems worse is that some simply are willing to sell the faith they once found important in favor of all types of ridiculous pursuits. I pray that Jesus becomes absolutely the most important part of everything you do, and every day you live. Selling Him out is what one of the disciples did... here's a few words about him.

"Then one of the Twelve--the one called Judas Iscariot--went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?' So they counted out for him thirty silver coins. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over." Matthew 26:14-16

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Words?

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:00:26 GMT

Most of our words are spoken either in worship of ourselves or other "gods" in our lives. For a Christian this should not be the case. Jesus is our Lord, and He deserves our worship. Our words and our actions should bring him glory--not that He needs it, but because He is our God. Honestly, who do your words worship?

"On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts." 1 Thessalonians 2:4

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Christian Racism?

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 11:00:08 GMT

"Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite." Numbers 12:1

Many are shocked to discover Moses was married to an African woman. She was a Cushite (translated Ethiopian today). When they learned of the marriage, Moses' brother and sister (Aaron and Miriam) began to speak ill of him, even mocking his relationship with the Lord. It is possible they disliked her because she was not an Israelite, but much more likely because of the color of her skin. At any rate, their hearts were prideful and hardened by their racist attitudes. Is it any wonder sinful, hard-hearted people still find much pleasure in perpetuating racism. As Christians, racism is something we can simply have no part of!

"Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all." Colossians 3:11

Pastor Jim Kilby

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One Way?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:00:29 GMT

Many point out that "my" interpretation of the Gospel is rather narrow. They don't like it when I say that Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to heaven. Some have even asked why God would give these people life if He knew they would spend eternity in hell. Well, this is a serious issue.... let me clear it up as plainly as I can. There IS only ONE way to heaven! You MUST accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. There is absolutely NOTHING you can do to earn it, and there is absolutely NO OTHER WAY IN. God does not want anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9), but because He gives us free choice, many will! Any other version of the truth is what theologians call "pluralism," and is a lie directly from Satan himself! I didn't design the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I only preach what He has taught me directly from His infallible Word. I am not ashamed of it, and I won't stop. My friends, God is the Author, and everyone else is a liar. You can take that to the bank.

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Jesus of Nazareth, Matthew 7:13

"Thomas said to him, 'Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?' Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" John 14:5-6

"then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed... Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:10-12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Shunned?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:22:07 GMT

The poor are shunned even by their neighbors,
but the rich have many friends.
²¹ It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor,
but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.
(Proverbs 14:20-21, NIV)

Friends,

“I’m not sure how they let themselves get in that position in the first place.”

If we haven’t all said it out loud, we’ve probably all thought it at some point about someone. I know I have. The Lord has been graciously working on my heart to respond with mercy instead of judgment, but it’s been a long process.

Part of that change has come from seeing just how many people truly need help — and how deeply grateful they are when someone simply listens, sees them, and cares. These verses struck me today because sometimes what hurts even more than hardship is loneliness. Worse than feeling like the world is stacked against you is feeling invisible.

For many of the people we serve, poverty isn’t just about money. It’s a cycle that is incredibly hard to break.

The mom who doesn’t have transportation can’t hope to get a job without a bus pass.
The dad trying to provide can’t work without childcare in place.
The payday loan that fills empty bellies tonight comes back next month with crushing interest, digging the hole deeper.

Our goal is simple: to see people as people. To serve them as dearly loved children of God. To make sure they know they are seen and valued.

Breaking cycles of poverty also breaks cycles of loneliness and shame. A moment of kindness restores dignity. It builds trust. And sometimes, it opens the door to an entirely new future.

Thank you for being the kind of community that moves toward people instead of away from them.

CELEBRATIONS!!!

Ms C – Food help for two sisters and their combined 8 kiddos.
Ms J – Help with an AES bill so there aren’t disconnect threats.

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

180 Degrees?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:17:21 GMT

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed
by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—
his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2, NIV)

Dear Friends,

My wife and I recently had the opportunity to take a cruise on a Windstar ship. One phrase stayed with me throughout the trip — their motto: “180° from normal.” It’s meant to describe a travel experience that intentionally moves away from the typical and embraces something different. As I reflected on that phrase, I couldn’t help but think about how perfectly it describes the life Jesus calls us to live.

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 11:00:12 GMT

It's not only rare, but a total exception to the rule that I use the same Scripture two days in a row. Still, I just cannot get this one out of my mind. From my childhood I have understood the "cup of cold water in my name" Scripture as a treatise on what I was supposed to be doing for those around me. That even if I did simple things like give a glass of cold water to a thirsty person and I did it in the name (or to further the kingdom of) Jesus, then I was doing God's work. I guess I must have heard fifty sermons exert just that. Frankly and honestly, I have either misread or misunderstood this for far too long. Sure, followers of Jesus are supposed to do gracious and thoughtful things in His name, but this Scripture actually says that Jesus will reward those who help me (and you) along that path. It also acknowledges that such a thing might be a rare occurrence--a miracle of God if you will, and NOT a miracle of our doing!

"He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 10:40-42)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Welcome!

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 11:00:04 GMT

A lot of seemingly "good deeds" are done across this globe by all kinds of people, serving all types of "gods.". What makes Christians different (and I know that many other religions would claim this) is that we serve the One True God. Since we have the Holy Spirit to serve as our witness, and since the Scriptures have stood firm for generations under Satan's attacks, only Christians serve a Savior who came back from the grave! That being said, you will find many who dislike you because you claim to have a firm foundation in Christ. Many find Christianity too "narrow minded" and exclusionary. The Scriptures tell us not to take these attacks personally, since they are essentially all aimed at Jesus and not us. It's Jesus who is narrow minded when it comes to sin. And it's Jesus who despises those who claim to have paths to heaven that lead people astray. If you are hurt by these attacks, be hurt because your Lord is being mocked. And know that though you may be mocked by some, others will welcome you, serve you, and sit and listen patiently as you tell of your Lord. When they do so, they'll be welcoming Jesus Himself because He resides in you. Take pride in Him, and not in your own accomplishments. In the end it will be He who rewards us all.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Peace?

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 11:00:05 GMT

I heard a sermon many years ago that's stuck with me in an uncanny way. The general idea was that Christians can get a good idea of how well they are walking with the Lord based on the number of broken relationships in their lives. For example, if you're a person who just can't get along with anyone, then you become the single common denominator in all of your relationships--by simple mathematics, YOU are the problem. That being accurate, your walk with the Lord must need some work! I have long thought this to be true, and it certainly is true if you continuously have broken relationships within the Church, meaning other believers. However, as I've been reading through the Old Testament again, I've become convinced of a new understanding on this issue. Let's face it, there were many Old Testament prophets and other figures who were simply hated by everyone (or nearly everyone) around them (Jesus included!) They were hated because they were holy, they spoke the truth, and their actions were righteous. That doesn't mean today's Christians should become "self-righteous" and break relationships with others without a great amount of effort, humility and grace, but it is always going to be a problem for some that you are doing your best to walk with Jesus. Let's face it, some broken relationships are inevitable. I believe we should continue to pray about the situation, and for the other person(s), but that doesn't mean we're required to be best friends with those who hate the Lord.

"Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord." Romans 12:19

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Walk In Faith

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 19:41:28 GMT

" Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time
we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9, NIV)

Dear Friends,

As followers of Christ, we are called to be His hands and feet, reaching out to those in need with love, compassion, and generosity. Whether through small acts of kindness or larger gestures of service, every opportunity to help others is a chance to reflect God's love. Sometimes, we may feel that our efforts are insignificant, but even the smallest act - an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a listening ear - can be used by God in powerful ways. He calls us to be faithful in whatever way we can, trusting that He will multiply our efforts for His glory.

At Harvest Youth Ministries, this is at the heart of what we do through all of our various ministry outlets. We believe that serving others is not just an action but a lifestyle that demonstrates the love of Christ. Whether it's through providing practical help, offering a shoulder to lean on, or simply being present for someone who is struggling, we embrace every opportunity to make a difference. But our work doesn't stop at meeting physical needs - we also seek to pray for people and share the gospel whenever God opens the door. True help is not just in what we can do for others, but in pointing them to the One who can truly transform their lives. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This is literally the verse that inspired me when we founded this organization.

Let us continue to walk in faith, always looking for ways to bless those around us and bring the hope of Christ into their lives. As Jesus says in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." May we always be ready to serve, pray, and share the good news, trusting that God will use us to make an eternal impact for His kingdom. As always, thank YOU for the part you plan in providing financial help, or just rooting us on in the heavenly realm!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Miracle!

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 19:23:46 GMT

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to his power that is at work within us, ²¹ to him be glory in the
church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations,
for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21, NIV)

Friends,

The week before Christmas I felt like my email inbox was mocking me. There were so many open Harvest Helps requests for large amounts of money. I honestly didn’t know what to do. While I didn’t want to let anyone down, I couldn’t commit to any of the needs either. I sent emails to three different women saying, “Funds are low right now, but I am praying for a miracle.”

After I sent those emails, I posted the needs on Facebook, prayed that God would work it out… and then I walked away.

Friends, God provided. A friend donated the exact amount (to the penny!) to cover multiple bills, and others gave as well—the total just kept rising.

When I was able to tell these women that God, through His people, had seen them and provided for them—goodness—that is not something I will forget anytime soon.

There were tears. There was prayer. There was hope. Thank you for that!

Please be in prayer that we would never be so foolish as to believe any of this happens because of our own doing – but only because He goes before us and does more than we could ask or imagine!

CELEBRATIONS!!!

Ms J - Rent & utilities help after loss of an infant child.

Ms Q - Utilities help after the loss of an infant child.

Ms H - Rent help after sudden job loss (and after having just moved out of homelessness)

Ms K - Utilities help after disconnect notice.

Ms. T – Rent help after health issues.

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Babies?

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:00:14 GMT

Have you seen any place on the planet that doesn't have at least some jealousy and quarrelling going on amongst its inhabitants? Probably the only way you wouldn't find one is if you went somewhere where there was only one person! But... if you were there long with the other person, I'd bet there would be a quarrel sooner or later! Unfortunately, if we find this in the church of Jesus Christ, it is actually a sign that we are seriously off track with God. If you have jealousy among members of your youth group (or the "grown-up" church for that matter), then you've got more trouble than you think. Jealousy and fighting are fruit of the sinful nature and have no place in the Body of Christ. They're only there because spiritual babies are there and babies always want things their way or else they throw a fit. A strong Christian will gain humility from his or her time with God, and that humility will continuously remind them that it's always about God and what He wants and NEVER about us and what we want.

"Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly--mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men? For when one says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe--as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building." 1 Corinthians 3:1-9

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Undignified?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:32 GMT

Imagine you turn on the news and watch as the leader of the free world dances down the street in his underwear! Absolutely everyone is shocked! Some cry for immediate impeachment. Others cry "he's insane!" But that's not the weirdest thing. Some seem not only to understand his actions, but 30,000 others join in--actually following him down the city streets! As crazy as it seems, this is only partly fiction! Overcome with the joy that can only come from God, King David danced in the city streets so vigorously, his robe fell off, leaving him dancing in his underwear in front of everyone! How undignified! His own wife seeing him from a window mocked him. To which he said, "I will celebrate before the LORD. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes." (2 Samuel 6:21b-22) And yet we find in our day and time, it's simply unacceptable even to speak of God outside of a church or worship center. How far we've slipped from where God would have us is known only to Him. This I know for sure though, I will become even more undignified than this!" Will "political correctness" stop you from dancing for the Lord?

"David, wearing a linen ephod, danced before the LORD with all his might, while he and the entire house of Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouts and the sound of trumpets. As the ark of the LORD was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD , she despised him in her heart... When David returned home to bless his household, Michal daughter of Saul came out to meet him and said, 'How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, disrobing in the sight of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!' David said to Michal, 'It was before the LORD, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the LORD's people Israel-I will celebrate before the LORD. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor.' And Michal daughter of Saul had no children to the day of her death." 2 Samuel 6:14-22

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Diets?

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:01:17 GMT

I've been on a few diets in my life, and most people my age will agree that they work for a while, but they don't help you keep the weight off for long. The problem with diets is that they may help you reduce your calories, or your carbs, but they don't help you change your lifestyle. Subsequently, the majority of dieters immediately return to their before-diet weight, and then they add a few more pounds for good measure. This is similar to the person who "tries religion" for a while, and then returns to their old ways when they don't see (or feel) any real change. Being a Christian is not going on a diet from sin. Becoming a Christian means dying to self completely, allowing the Holy Spirit to permeate everything that is you, and to give you a new life--a totally new life! It means death to sin. I've seen a few bumper stickers that read, "Try Christianity." They might as well be working for the devil, because any Christianity that is simply "tried" is not the real thing--there is no change from the inside out! At best, starting a diet from sin (or trying Christianity) will just make a dead person smell a little better for a while.

"In reply Jesus declared, 'I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.'" John 3:3

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Plumb?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 11:00:09 GMT

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 11:01:01 GMT

I don't know about you, but two of the first two words I learned as a young man were "stop" and "no." Those words, although sometimes upsetting and even harsh, kept me from running out into traffic, grabbing a hot stove, and who knows what other dangerous stuff. I desperately want my children to know that I love them deeply, but I also want them to know that the words "no" and "stop" are just as loving when spoken for the right reasons. Often I hear Christians complaining that they just can't stop committing a certain sin. If they are true Christians--having died to self and been born again through Christ, then this is a lie. The truth is that through Christ we have power over sin. Only a non-believer can be truly trapped by Satan's lies; unless the believer actually likes the sin or wants to continue in it. So, when you think about going too far sexually--just STOP. Say "no" to the guy or girl involved, and move on. Jesus has your back! When you think about stealing something from your mom's purse--STOP Ask yourself how you could sin against God like that. When you think of anything that would bring dishonor to Jesus--STOP! Stop your tongue from sinning, stop your mind from sinning, and stop your body from sinning! You DO have the power in Christ!

I recommend memorizing the following verses immediately!

"If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--because anyone who has died has been freed from sin." Romans 6:5-7

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Rocks?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:00:26 GMT

While riding in the back of my car my then almost nine year old daughter suddenly blurts out that she and her little sister are "saving to buy me a rock." "Really?" I retorted. "Why do I need a rock?" "So we can find you when your dead!" she quickly answered. "You know, one of those rocks with your name on it!" Frankly, I kind of got a chuckle out of it since I didn't have any clear indication that they had some news from God that I'd be departing soon and they were sincere in wanting to do something wonderful for their dad. They already know this at a basic level, but in the years to come they'll learn with even more clarity that I really don't care whether or not I have a "rock" as a grave marker. All I need is the Rock I've found in my Savior Jesus Christ. He holds the keys to my future, my children's futures, and He's the one who gave me a heart for this daily ministry. Oh that they will also grow to understand how precious the real Rock in my life really is!

"1 I waited patiently for the LORD;

he turned to me and heard my cry.

2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,

out of the mud and mire;

he set my feet on a ROCK

and gave me a firm place to stand.

3 He put a new song in my mouth,

a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear

and put their trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:1-3 (Emphasis mine)

Incidentally, for those with a keen eye, these are the verses that have underscored my signature element for many years. This is where the "new song" in my heart came from!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Kept?

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:00:06 GMT

I read a neat story today about a man in Scotland who left instructions to have only one word inscribed on his tombstone. The word "KEPT" was to be emblazoned across the top, without even a mention of his name. Honestly, it was one of the most faithful and God fearing things I've read in a long time. The man clearly had an understanding of the higher things of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Not only does God love us enough to sacrifice His Son to regain a relationship with us, but He is powerful enough to make sure that not only we, but even the things He's promised us are "KEPT" in heaven, in a place where nothing can ever happen to them, to our relationship with Him, or to us personally!

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade--KEPT in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time." 1 Peter 1:3-6 (Emphasis Mine)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Old and New?

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:00:18 GMT

Is a person who's been a Christian for many years and who has studied and grown of greater value to the kingdom of God than a new believer? Believe it or not, the answer is "no!" They are both of the same value to the kingdom--a value so high we cannot even fathom it! What is true, however, is that the more learned believer will be able to do different things for God. He or she has been tried and tested through many things, and God can call on him or her to perform missions that require that level of maturity. A new believer would have difficulty performing some of the tasks God would require of someone like a pastor or elder in the church. They would probably feel like a fish out of water--probably even becoming discouraged. The right thing in the right time my friends. And God is in control of all of it!

"No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making it tear worse. Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 9:16-17)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Co-MISSIONED!

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 11:00:17 GMT

For many people, Bible study seems to be a waste of time--They just don't get much out of it. Even for those who've studied it for years it can become dry at times. It makes me ask myself how something so powerful, so mystery laden and so penetrating ever become dull? I believe one of the most solid reasons is that those who are called to consume it lose their focus--they fail to remember they're on a mission. In the military I had more than one occasion to take a last minute briefing before diving into the uncharted waters of uncertainty called, "the mission!" "Will this plan work?" I would ask myself. "Have I forgotten anything?" "Have I made any fatal mistakes?" During times of "testing" we always search our minds for everything we can remember of our training. We must have faith! It often comes from remembering what God has done, and what He's promised to do. During times of "resting" we can forget everything. Faith then becomes a distant memory! We recoil and hide. Remember that your Bible is God's Word to YOU! He has "co-MISSIONED you to do His work. This day, and every day, you need to search it for what God is telling you to be about--and how to be about it! It's like a last minute briefing before you head out in the morning, and like a good debrief when you get home. It's the only way to get refocused when the events of your day force you to dive into a foxhole under fire. If you don't stay plugged in to the "power source," the "information source," and the "inspiration source," you'll be left out there all alone. Before you know it you'll stop charging forward in favor of building a fort and hiding in it! Then, as with everyone who falls off the trail, your Bible will become a dusty remnant of battles long forgotten and the God-honoring life that could have been.

"I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness--the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints." Colossians 1:25-26

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Resolutions?

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 18:17:10 GMT

And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making
all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words
are trustworthy and true.” (Revelation 21:5, ESV)

Friends,

January is a beautiful time of starting over, starting fresh. We see so many people right now making New Year’s resolutions, starting new routines, and determining to do things differently.

Y’all, I am determining to do things the same…sort of.

What an amazing year it has been connecting with people in our community on a personal level. There is something about looking a person in the eyes that says, “You are seen, as a PERSON. Not as a problem to be solved or a case to be closed, but as a human being who has deep needs and wants and who probably never wanted to be in this situation.”

My resolutions this year?

1. Continue to see people as people, not projects.

2. Pray for as many people as possible – planting spiritual seeds while physical needs are met.

3. Continue to pray for wisdom as needs come in, so funding is stewarded well.

4. Share the wins and the prayer requests – there is strength in numbers!

5. Be thankful for each opportunity to remind people they are seen and loved.

CELEBRATIONS!!!

Unnamed Man – Laundry Gift Card!
Ms C – Groceries for her family!
Ms G – Bus Pass!
Ms T – Amazon Wishlist Items for coats, cleaning supplies and more!!
Ms B – Groceries for her family!
Ms J – Utilities help!
Ms K – Help with Rent!
Ms S – Household items!
Ms L – Laundry gift card & detergent
Ms C – Bus pass!
Ms A – Bus pass!
Ms V – Groceries!
Ms A – Bus pass!
Ms S – Bus pass!

I cannot wait to see what 2026 holds in this space and share more stories with you! Glory to God!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Faith in Action

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 18:14:35 GMT

“Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes or daily food. If one of you says, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?”

James 2:15-16 (NIV)

Dear Friends,

One of the core convictions of Harvest Youth Ministries is that faith requires action. Words of encouragement are meaningful, but Scripture reminds us that love becomes real when we meet actual needs in tangible ways. The world doesn’t change because we wish someone well. It changes when we roll up our sleeves, step into someone’s struggle, and help them take a step forward.

This is exactly what your partnership empowers us to do throughout the Dayton area.

Through Harvest House, young people facing instability or crisis find more than a temporary solution—they find safety, support, and caring adults willing to walk with them. And through Harvest Helps, we compassionately meet practical needs for families—food, transportation, clothing, household essentials, and other vetted assistance that lifts burdens and restores hope. Each situation is handled prayerfully and personally, never as a transaction but as a ministry opportunity.

But meeting physical needs is only part of what makes this work meaningful. Because of your support, we also have the privilege of sharing the Gospel, encouraging young people with the hope of Christ, and praying with them in moments when they desperately need to know they are not alone. These spiritual conversations often become turning points—reminders that God sees them, loves them, and has not forgotten their story.

Your generosity allows our faith to become more than words. It becomes compassion in motion—faith with hands and feet. As needs continue to grow and more families reach out, you make it possible for Harvest Youth Ministries to respond with wisdom, discernment, and Christ-centered care.

Thank you for investing in work that demonstrates the love of Jesus in both word and deed. Because of you, young people and families in our community are experiencing the Gospel lived out: not empty wishes, but faithful action.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Evil?

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 11:00:28 GMT

"If God is love, then why is there so much evil in the world?" Many people get a kick out of asking a pastor or a priest that question. I've definitely gotten it plenty of times. Maybe they just want to see the reaction or something, but they strike out if they ask me. I look at it as either ignorance, or maybe an attempt to bring an indictment against God. My answer is typically framed in the form of a question. "So, have you ever looked at the evil inside of you?" Honestly, if any one of us put our minds to it, we could probably do more evil than any other person has ever done. It's down inside our hearts already--all we'd need to do is let it out! That's the problem my friends--we are sinners, and unless something radical is done about it we'll just keep on sinning. That's the purpose of the Cross--to save us from our sinful selves. God is not the author of evil--He is the author of grace!

"Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." Psalm 51:5

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Work, Work, Work!

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 11:00:01 GMT

Far too many churches and Christian organizations will lay out an exhaustive plan for how you can serve, and how you can give, with far too little emphasis on helping you learn to follow Christ. I have met more people who are sick of their churches for this reason than for any other I can think of. Beautiful stained glass, wonderful programs, and all the great philosophical teaching in the world simply won't get anyone into a right relationship with their Creator. Only faith in Jesus Christ can do that, and that only comes through the Holy Spirit of God. So it suffices to say that if the leaders of a congregation are not trying to lead you in that direction, then they are not being prompted by the Holy Spirit. Frankly, the most successful churches I know (both in monetary terms and in terms of souls saved) are churches who simply and methodically point people toward a loving, believing and saving relationship with Jesus.

"For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings." Hosea 6:6

Pastor Jim Kilby

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One Size Does Not Fit All!

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:00:01 GMT

Many people tell me they just can't share their faith. While I can understand the difficulty, sometimes I think the problem is they are trying to share it the way they've seen others do it, and maybe that's not the best way for them. Below are six different ways of sharing your faith with an unbeliever. See if you can find one that fits an evangelistic situation you've been avoiding.

1. Confrontational. (Should be used only by those well versed in the Scriptures and should be used sparingly even then.)

2. Intellectual. Using logic (or Christian apologetics (giving reasons for your faith).

3. Testimonial. (Anyone can tell someone else their own testimony. It doesn't have to be long, and it's hard to argue with)

4. Relational. (Building relationships for the express purpose of sharing your faith.)

5. Invitational. (Generally used in formal settings like church or rallies.)

6. Service (Acts of service done in love).

"To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some." 1 Corinthians 9:22

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Teachers Beware!

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:00:21 GMT

Although we should all strive to become mature in our faith so that we can teach others, we must also understand that doing so changes the way the Lord looks at us. He can use us to grow others, but if we are then unfaithful in the way we speak, or teach, then we will be judged more harshly than a new believer. And it's not just how we speak when we're teaching that gets us... it's how we speak all of the time. We must set the standard for other believers, and be a model Christ follower for those who are not.

"Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check." James 3:1-2

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Beginnings?

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:00:14 GMT

The Scriptures tell us that God did not have a beginning, and that He does not have an end. For you and I that may be hard to understand (possibly because on this earth we will have both!) Knowing that I had a beginning (in my mother's womb, or even before that in the mind of God) serves to humble me greatly. I did not ask for life, and yet I have it! Think about it for a moment... the same God who put the stars in the sky conceived you in His mind before your mother conceived you. Then, the Scriptures tell us He "knit" you in her womb. While we probably will never be able to fully understand how God could always have been, we will one day move from the restraints time and space put on us and into eternity. Once we're there, I'm betting our perspective on life will change radically. Then the ignorance of thinking unborn babies are "choices" and human embryos are fodder for "experiments" will be exposed by God Himself. Until then, He relies in great part on you and I to carry the torch of "life!" Believe me friends, God is pro-choice in the sense that He gives us choice in whether or not we follow Him. But the Scriptures are resolute in the fact that He is pro-life when it comes to shedding innocent blood. Just some 60 years later we now look back at Adolph Hitler's "experiments" as cruel and inhuman. Think back to your school lessons. In his mind didn't Hitler believe he was advancing mankind through "selection" and the through the sciences? Death only advances itself.

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13-14

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Uncompromising?

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 11:00:35 GMT

"Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit." Jesus of Nazareth(Matthew 15:13b-14)

One of the most wicked things about the religious leaders during Jesus' earthly ministry was that they had absolute control over everything, weighing down people with terrible things they "had to do" in order to be okay with God and to be okay with them! They were essentially judge, jury and executioner. One of the worst things about some of the religious leaders today is that they do just the opposite. They allow all types of unholy and ungodly practices and they even champion evil practices themselves. Their ministries, like those who led in Jesus' day, will amount to nothing good. In fact, their ministries are controlled by Satan and are not ordained by God because they go against His Word. Unfortunately, anyone who follows these false leaders will be held accountable personally. The truth is that many follow them because they like things the "easy way!" Friends, the easy way is very rarely the right way. Even as young people we must all be careful to only follow!

leaders who follow Jesus and His Word closely and without compromise.

"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear." 2 Timothy 4:3

Pastor Jim Kilby

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What A Flood!

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 11:00:38 GMT

If you accidentally left the water running in your bathtub would you try to turn it off before it flooded your whole home? What if the carpet was already wet? What if there was two inches of water in your house? Would you just decide to leave it running if there was already damage done? If you think those are silly questions I'm with you all the way. I also think it's quite silly when people tell me they are in debt, but they don't stop spending more money than they earn. Or, that they are pregnant, or keep getting diseases, but they don't see why they should stop having sex with every new person they meet! And probably the most painful of all is when young Christians write me and tell me that "since they're not virgins anymore, what's the difference if they just have sex with lots of people?" Well, it doesn't make sense with your flooding bathtub and it makes even less sense with your body. Hey, you could rebuild your house if necessary, but even the biggest bathtub on the planet won't help you wash off that terrible un-clean feeling you'll get from sinning with your body. Soooo, if you've walked down that road, know that today is the day the Lord has made, and today is the day to start getting better! As Jesus often said, "Go and sin no more!" You will never regret starting over, and the Lord will bless it too! He died to give you the power to win out over sin... so WIN!

"For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--because anyone who has died has been freed from sin." Romans 6:6-7

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Silent Night

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 11:00:26 GMT

The words, "Christ the Saviour is born" ring through our ears each Christmas as this widely known song is sung at millions of Christmas parties. The words are sung, but do the people realize? Jesus isn't just "the Savior," He is the ONLY Savior! He's not just the "truth," He is the ONLY truth... and He's not just the "light," He is the ONLY light. Without Him, our depravity and our desperation would be bottomless. Without the birth of Christ that Holy night, we have NOTHING!

Silent Night

Silent night, Holy night,

All is calm, all is bright,

'Round yon Virgin Mother and Child,

Holy Infant so tender and mild,

Sleep in heavenly peace,

Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, Holy night,

Shepherds quake at the sight,

Glories stream from heaven afar,

Heav'nly hosts sing Alleluia;

Christ, the Savior is born,

Christ the Savior is born.

Silent night, Holy night,

Son of God, love's pure light

Radiant beams from Thy Holy face,

With the dawn of redeeming grace,

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth,

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

We wish you the merriest of Christmas Holidays!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Incarnation

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 11:00:38 GMT

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, and the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:14

The enemy is busy trying to silence it, but this is the TRUTH! Jesus laid aside everything to be born into a sinful world... knowingly giving Himself a death sentence--a death sentence that renders a "not guilty" verdict for all who believe and receive Him! Now, that's the meaning of Christmas!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Act Like A Berean?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:00:25 GMT

One of the first signs that the Spirit of God is working in you is that you'll have a great desire to search the Scriptures and learn more about Him. Unfortunately, many people will never do that, instead they'll listen to the rantings of hell-bent teachers and preachers and never check the Scriptures, even when the Spirit prompts them that something they've heard is not true to His Word. The saying "Act like a Berean!" is one I like to use when I challenge young Christians to take responsibility for growing in their faith. This Scripture says it all!

"Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." Acts 17:11

Pastor Jim Kilby

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The Same?

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:00:44 GMT

There are a lot of ups and downs in a life, and the Christian life is no different. I find a lot of young people have a serious misconception about this simple fact. They somehow think God is powerful and loves them when things are going well, and somehow He's either no longer powerful, or doesn't love them anymore when things seem to be going poorly. If you're going through some rough times then maybe it's a time of discipline, or maybe it's a time of testing and growth, but two things for sure: God is still God, and God is still love! If you are, you can be sure God still loves you, too! Are my children (my own flesh and blood children) any less "Kilby" when I'm disciplining them? Are they any less loved? Certainly not! And you're no less Christian during the tough times in life. Soooo... when God is doing amazing things and everything seems to be going well, write it down, then go back and read what God did for you when times get tougher--The same God is still ultimately in charge of everything! This too shall pass!

"The LORD's right hand is lifted high; the LORD's right hand has done mighty things! I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done. The LORD has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death." Psalm 118:16-18

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Weary?

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:00:22 GMT

Have you ever noticed how some people seem to do almost nothing with their time, and how others seem to accomplish great things? Part of the answer involves simple things like planning, goal setting, and just plain hard work, but when it comes to working for things that last forever you'll need more than that! I've been involved in full-time ministry for years and although I've had many days when I've wondered if I'd make it through the day, God has somehow brought me through. When I occasionally sit and think about the hundreds of people who I've been involved in ministry with who have grown tired of it and eventually quit, the only difference I can think of is possibly where they were drawing their strength from. As my pastor like to say, "God always uses the 'B' team!" That doesn't mean that He uses people who are less important, but that He uses those who just don't have the strength it looks like other's have. If you are trying to do God's work under your own power, you may look great for a while, but you'll grow weary quickly--you are no match for the enemy. But, if you rely on Him alone, even the most simple ministry make a God-sized impact in someone's life!

Even youths grow tired and weary,

and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the LORD

will renew their strength.

And so today, I want to thank you. Your prayers, support, and generosity help us continue sharing Christ’s love with
youth who desperately need it. Because of you, lives are being shaped by the hope found in Jesus. Without you, and
God’s love, we can do nothing.

As we move forward in this season of “Thanksgiving,” may we all choose gratitude daily — keeping our hearts tender,
joyful, and attentive to God’s goodness.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Beautiful Things

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:14:19 GMT

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down
from the Father of the heavenly lights…” (James 1:7)

Friends,

I was over at the thrift store recently and overheard a customer chatting with the cashier as she checked out. The conversation was full of gratitude as she shared how many times she’s been able to find — and afford — beautiful things there. What a blessing for me to hear! One of the goals of Second Harvest is to provide our community with quality (and beautiful!) items at reasonable, affordable prices. Mission accomplished.

Of course, there is always more to it, isn’t there? God has been so faithful this past year to remind me how He loves to give us good and perfect gifts, beautiful things if you will. He delights in showing His love in ways we could never imagine. I’ve seen it when a friend texted, “God said this was the one — do it right now,” after an urgent rent request was posted online. I’ve seen it in gifts of household basics and warm coats stacked high in my office for a momma of eight who is starting over with almost nothing. I’ve seen it in a grocery pick-up that fed a family for a week. I’ve seen it in bus passes, appliances, kitchen tables, shoes… and as I type this, my eyes fill with tears remembering each of these moments and how we were able to say, “And also — Jesus loves you.”

YOU made that possible. Thank you for being part of the beautiful things God is giving our community — gifts that reflect the generosity of Jesus Himself.

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Red Alert!

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:00:02 GMT

"Red Alert, Red Alert!"

N eglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. (1 Timothy 4:14)

K eep ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. (Jude 21)

S anctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15)

G od is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. (Hebrews 6:10)

I f ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7)

V erily, verily I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that send me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. (John 5:24)

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:00:59 GMT

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:42:59 GMT

"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." - James 1:22 (NIV)

Dear Friends,

Recently, my wife and I completed a study of the Book of James, and it has been a powerful reminder that real faith shows itself through how we live. James, the brother of Jesus, doesn't focus on lofty ideas - he focuses on action . He challenges believers to put God's Word into practice: to speak with kindness, to show mercy to others, and to persevere through trials with joy. Each passage reminded us that faith is not proven by what we say we believe, but by how we live those beliefs out day by day.

We were especially moved by James 2:17: "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." That verse brought us back to the heart of our walk with Christ and to the mission of Harvest Youth Ministries - serving others, meeting needs, and sharing the love of Jesus in practical ways. Our study challenged us to make sure our faith is active and visible, not just in our words, but in our compassion, generosity, and willingness to help those God places in our path.

At Harvest Youth Ministries, we believe that every act of service - offering a meal, mentoring a teen, or simply praying with someone in need - is faith in motion. Through your generosity, prayers, and encouragement, you make that possible. Whether you've donated, volunteered, or lifted us up in prayer, you are helping us bring hope, love, and opportunity to those who need it most.

From our hearts to yours, that you for the part you play in this ministry. Together, we are living out the message of James - proving that faith is alive when it moves, gives, and serves in Jesus' name.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Fakers?

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:00:58 GMT

Conform: To assume an outward appearance that does not accurately reflect what is really true on the inside. To put it in smaller words; "to live a lie."

"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For,

'All men are like grass,

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:00:25 GMT

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

My take on how the world works requires a simple man's understanding. In a ministry where a lot of people ask me questions and want God's answers, I need to be able to break things down to their root as quickly as possible and without later having to cower before my Lord. Basically, my understanding of the world and our place in it goes something like this. Either people are for themselves, or they are for God (and through Him, for others). When I approach the big questions of ministry, the Bible, the cosmos, etc., I weigh them with simple things I know to be true from God's word. Here's an example from a father just today. Question: Why don't my children want to pray? Answer: They don't believe it's valuable? That answer bears another question: Why don't they believe it's valuable? Answer: Because they are blinded to God's truths? Question: How did they become blind? (Especially, since only someone who says they believe in God would even consider prayer). Answer: they were born blinded by sin, and although they may have a relationship with God on some level, the god of this world (Satan) has blinded them; enticing them with worldly and personal pleasures and comforts so that they can no longer see the truth. Analysis: Someone who does not value prayer is either unsaved, or saved and subsequently led astray by the enemy.

I know that was ultra simple, but maybe my simple approach to big questions will help you, too. All you need is a basic understanding of Biblical truths (that comes from reading the Bible, Bible study in church & with others, believing on the Lord Jesus, and praying to Him earnestly). It's also a must to be involved in a solid Bible-believing church where you can learn and serve (and so that you've got someone to bounce things off of when they don't make sense). At any rate, you are needed in the Lord's Army, but He needs you to be in training! I spend far too many hours explaining basic Bible truths to people who've been professing Christians for years upon years--It's time to get moving people! Take it one verse at a time.

"In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food!" Hebrews 5:12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Rich Fools!

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:00:02 GMT

There are a fair amount of poor people in the Western World, but even the poorest are generally better off than many of the third and fourth world nations around the globe. If you find yourself among the poorest, then be generous with what you have when you have it. If you find yourself among the most wealthy of the world (in monetary terms), then be generous with what you have. Just like a child who screams "mine" when someone else is thirsty, selfishness is ugly--clear to the core!

"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the LIFE THAT IS TRULY LIFE!" 1 Timothy 6:17-19 (Emphasis mine)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Discipline?

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:00:08 GMT

Although my children may not understand it when they are young, I have a God-given responsibility to teach them His ways and to discipline them with love and truth. Surely my two year-old doesn't understand that "time out" is good for him in the long run, nor does my eight year-old appreciate that going to bed without dinner is building her character, but those acts (although appearing to be cruel at the moment) are acts of intense love. The Scriptures actually say that if I fail to discipline my children, I hate them (Proverbs 13:24). Likewise, our God disciplines us when we need it (which is often!). What we may think is a long run of bad luck may be God trying to break through our Spiritual blindness. The interesting thing about spiritual blindness is (to quote Pastor Paul Tripp, PhD whom I recently saw on video), "the one who's blind doesn't know it!" In the Scripture below, try to see God's love as you read the accounts of His discipline of Israel.

(Amos 4 6-12)

6 "I gave you empty stomachs in every city

and lack of bread in every town,

yet you have not returned to me,"

declares the LORD.

7 "I also withheld rain from you

when the harvest was still three months away.

I sent rain on one town,

but withheld it from another.

One field had rain;

another had none and dried up.

8 People staggered from town to town for water

but did not get enough to drink,

yet you have not returned to me,"

declares the LORD.

9 "Many times I struck your gardens and vineyards,

I struck them with blight and mildew.

Locusts devoured your fig and olive trees,

yet you have not returned to me,"

declares the LORD.

10 "I sent plagues among you

as I did to Egypt.

I killed your young men with the sword,

along with your captured horses.

I filled your nostrils with the stench of your camps,

yet you have not returned to me,"

declares the LORD.

11 "I overthrew some of you

as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah.

You were like a burning stick snatched from the fire,

yet you have not returned to me,"

declares the LORD.

12 "Therefore this is what I will do to you, Israel,

and because I will do this to you,

prepare to meet your God, O Israel."

Pastor Jim Kilby

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“Just The Way I Am!"

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:00:11 GMT

Working with young people can give you a whole new perspective on foul language. Sometimes the way they speak to one another has actually caused me to cry. And, although I often used mean, hateful and even dirty words when I was a teen, I never realized just how bad they sounded until I gave my life to Christ. He's still got plenty of work to do in my heart, but I can safely say that my language comes from a whole different perspective now. That new perspective has allowed me to work with others who have the same struggle, showing them that it's not "just they way they are" as they often will suggest, but actually it's just the way their heart is without Jesus!

"The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out to the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Luke 6:45

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Discipline?

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

I'll readily admit that being in the U.S. Military for more than 20 years might have given me more of an appreciation for discipline, but the truth is that discipline is not learned in the military. It is learned as a young child, and it is carried into life. Many parents today have given in to athe well-intentioned but absolutely wrong idea that teaching a child through "discipline" (meaning to teach, or to disciple) is somehow wrong. I even received angry mail this week when I suggested in one of my devotionals that I might (although I never have) send one of my children to bed without dinner to teach them something. Maybe I should put it this way. Either a parent teaches a child a healthy respect for rules and laws or society will. What's worse, either they have a respect for God (and His desires) in this life, or they'll pay an even worse price. Frankly, I'd rather my children learned it from me. After all, God clearly placed that mantle of responsibility on the shoulders of parents. So, if your parents discipline you (in love and in truth), then you can thank God for them. They love you!

"Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death." Proverbs 23:13-14

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Draw Near!

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:00:25 GMT

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 10:00:11 GMT

"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ," Ephesians 3:16-18

I have one of those lawn services come by my house every few weeks and put whatever it is that makes a lawn gorgeous on my grass. Still, if they're not paying attention during the early spring treatments, they'll miss a spot or two and I'll get a few dandelions here and there--something every grass lover hates! Earlier today I spotted one that I was sure I had pulled out a few weeks ago, but as dandelions are known for, if you don't get the entire (really long) root out of the ground, they'll grow back before you know it. And such is the case with sin in our lives. There are a few things that once allowed to grow roots into our lives will do a great job of destroying our faith, but probably nothing is worse than the love of money. If you see even a hint of it in your life, ask God to help you rip out the roots immediately!

"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1Timothy 6:10

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Forgiveness?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:21:58 GMT

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other,
just as in Christ, God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32, NIV)

Dear Friends,

When we think of forgiveness, it is easy to picture small slights-someone cutting us off in traffic or speaking a careless word. But the gospel calls us to something far greater. A striking example of this is Erika Kirk, who made headlines yesterday for extending forgiveness to the man who murdered her husband.

Her response shocked many, because forgiveness is not about excusing wrongs, but about entrusting justice to God. Forgiveness does not deny the pain or diminish the loss; instead, it opens the door for God's healing presence to enter. As Jesus Himself taught, " For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you" (Matthew 6:14, NIV).

At Harvest Youth Ministries, we often meet young people who carry wounds of betrayal, rejection, and loss. Stories like Erika's show us that no hurt is beyond God's redeeming love. As we walk alongside those we serve, we point them to the Savior who forgave His executioners and offers that same grace to all who call on Him.

May we all be known as a people who embody this radical forgiveness - in our homes, in our workplaces, and in our communities. In doing so, we shine as living witnesses of the transforming power of Christ's love.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Independence?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:13:16 GMT

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.

Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 82:3-4, NIV)

Friends,

When I hung up the phone with my new friend Ashley the other night, I knew I wanted to tell you all about her. With her permission, I’m sharing a bit of her story.

Ashley lost her job as a caregiver after an injury at work and spent the next year and a half homeless—part of that time living out of her car, the rest at a local shelter. Eventually she was placed in housing, and a local church group helped cover her first month’s rent and deposit.

She told me she had been earning income through DoorDash and Uber, but with her car broken down she hasn’t been able to work. She also no longer has transportation to her medical or counseling appointments.

Later in our conversation she mentioned that her food supply was running low. She could have listed many other needs, but one statement really stood out to me: “I don’t like asking for help but right now in my life I just needed to work for help so I can get back up on my feet.” (sic)

What Ashley asked for was simple—a bus pass. With a bus pass she could get groceries and attend her appointments. It would give her flexibility with employment. Transportation would help her meet her own needs and regain independence.

We “met” via Zoom for the first time, and even during that conversation she was trying to figure out ways to help another woman experiencing domestic violence. She also referred a friend to us who needed a bus pass. Her heart cares for the people around her.

Ashley asked for independence and because of your support, she received that bus pass, prayer, and hope for tomorrow. Thank you!

Some More Sticky Notes:

Ms A – received a bus pass & independence!!

Mr W – received first month’s rent coming out of homelessness!

Mr S – received one month’s rent after missing work

Ms J – received beds and a couch after resettling after domestic violence! (Sleep in Heavenly Peace donated the beds!)

Ms L – received furniture from the thrift store after homelessness!

Ms R – received a bed set from the thrift store!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Whatever!

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 10:00:19 GMT

Is every moment in life already planned out by God, or do we make it up with our choices and decisions and then God makes His will work through it? This question has long been debated by people a lot smarter than me, so I'll spare you my thoughts on the subject. I will, however, make what I believe to be even a more practical observation. It really doesn't matter to me! I guess I'll have to wait until the next life to find out because we are all still forced to make decisions each and every day, regardless of whether God already knows what we're going to do! The bottom line is that God is God, and even if everyone in the world is against us, even if they do their best to stop us, God will make His perfect will come to live in each of our lives if we simply follow the Spirit's urging. I don't know if He's involved in every single decision, but I know He's involved in making exactly what He wants out of my life come perfectly true!

"At this they tried to seize him [Jesus], but no one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come." John 7:30

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Pro-Death?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:00:19 GMT

"the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." Genesis 2:7

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 10:00:09 GMT

I planted a flower garden in my yard last year and it looked great! It was one of those spots in the yard where grass used to grow and I just shoveled it all up, leveled it out, and then planted some flowers. After the mulch went down everything looked great... until this year that is. You see, I took a shortcut. I didn't put down any of that cloth (or plastic) that kills the grass. And if you don't kill the grass, it becomes a weed in what would be a beautiful garden. Now we'll be pulling that grass out of our flowers forever... until we dig the whole thing up and put down something that will KILL that grass that is!

And such is the life of many a would-be Christ follower. They want to be born-again without ever dying to themselves. They want to have a God that will save them from themselves, while they serve themsleves with the life He gave them.

"I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life." Jesus of Nazareth (John 12:24-25)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Where?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 10:00:10 GMT

I've had the opportunity to travel much of the world and see some amazing spiritual places, but fortunately for me as a Christian, I don't have to travel anywhere to worship my God. Worshipers of some religions must go to specific place at a pre-arranged time or face in a certain direction to get their so-called god's approval. Sure, I go to organized church services, but I don't go there because God is only there and nowhere else. The true God we serve is everywhere and in all things and at all times. We can worship Him if we're stuck in the bottom of a dungeon (as St. Paul was) or in the majesty of the most beautiful cathedral. What we cannot do is worship Him in "flesh" no matter where we go. No amount of kneeling, clapping, singing or dancing will get God's attention if it's done for show! We must worship Him in spirit--meaning that our most inner being reaches out to Him in a humble, worshipful and truthful way. Glory be to God that the restrictions of the Old Testament were washed away by the Blood of His Only Son!

"Sir, the woman said, 'I can see that you are a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.' Jesus declared, 'Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem... Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.' The woman said, 'I know that "Messiah" (called Christ) is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.' Then Jesus declared, 'I who speak to you am he.'" John 4:19-26

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Who?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 10:00:12 GMT

If you really give it some thought, do you think any demons know your name? If so, it could be for two reasons. One, because you don't know Christ and they are quite often able to use you to do their develish work. Or two, because who you work and your commitment to that work is tearing their world apart! I've heard it said this way: "When you're feet hit the floor in the morning does a bell go off in hell and do demons start to scream, Oh, no! They're up! If not, then you're not busy doing the Lord's work!

"One day, the evil sprit answered them, 'Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?'" Acts 19:15

Pastor Jim Kilby

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You Did It!

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:00:15 GMT

From the Roman Governor to the Jews to every day Americans in the here and now, everyone seems to be arguing about who killed Jesus. The bad news is that we all did! Every person who's ever breathed a breath is/was a sinful creature, save one--Our Lord Jesus! We all are responsible for Him having to die to save us from our sins, and our heavenly Father is the one who loved us enough to allow it to happen. Fortunately for us all, we can stop arguing because He's not dead and because the same power that brought Him back from the grave gives us hope for life eternal! Glory be to God!

"When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. 'I am innocent of this man's blood,' he said. 'It is YOUR responsibility!'" Matthew 27:24 (Emphasis mine)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Acknowledgement?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:00:41 GMT

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:00:09 GMT

How do you act when someone corrects you in front of your friends? If you're the typical teenager (or even the typical adult) you'll get an attitude bigger than the room you're in and even if you're in the wrong, you'll set them straight. The typical Christian surely struggles with pride in the same way, but God calls us to a higher standard. One of the best examples I've seen was when David (the one who killed Goliath and who eventually became King David) was treated very badly by someone he had blessed over and over. David flew into a rage and swore he would take revenge. Fortunately for David's newfound enemy, his enemy's wife was a wise woman and went out to beg King David to reconsider. David's response showed how a true child of God immediately listens to God's voice, even if He uses someone else's voice to speak.

David said to Abigail, "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me. May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands." 1 Samuel 25:32-33

David's example of humility:

Thank you, God!

Bless you, friend!

I was a fool!

You saved me from my own stupidity!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Forgetful?

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:53:39 GMT

"Be kind and compa ssionate to one another, forgiving each
other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)

Dear Friends,

I was listening to a podcast the other day that talked about spiritual amnesia. It is the idea that as Christians, we tend to be forgetful. We might forget...

...we have been saved.
...what sinners we were and still are.
...that we STILL need a Savior.
...ways God has shown up and provided.

It also lead me to think about something my husband often says when interacting with people in tough situations: they never wanted this. In fact, often times we forget to treat people with dignity because of their situations instead of remembering…

…they are someone’s son or daughter.
…they once were a coo-ing baby.
…they never wanted their life to turn out this way.

When we remember people’s humanity - when we can take a moment to picture them as a little child dancing or singing - we can remember to treat them with the respect God says they deserve. Yes, there are usually still consequences for life choices and behaviors, but instead of judgment we can meet people with grace and compassion.

Some More Sticky Notes:

Ms J- Received access to furniture she needs in her new apartment.

Mr W - Received a bus pass to help him care for his two small children while in a shelter.

Mr M – Received furniture help for himself and his young daughter

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Prayer & The Word

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:49:59 GMT

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)

Dear Friends,

Prayer and the Word of God are the lifelines of a Christian’s walk with the Lord. Prayer connects us directly to our Heavenly Father, inviting His wisdom, comfort, and strength into our daily lives. When we open the Bible, God speaks to us through His truth, reminding us of His promises and shaping our hearts to reflect His character. Together, prayer and Scripture create a living relationship with God, allowing us to both speak to Him and hear from Him. As the Psalmist declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105) above.

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Is it Enough?

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:11:24 GMT

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. ⁷ So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. (1 Corinthians 3:6-7)

Friends,

Yesterday most of my family spent many hours in the car - at least two of those hours winding through back roads in Tennessee. One of the things we did to pass the time was spot churches. I’m fairly convinced there’s one church for every ten people in that part of the country! (We stayed in Crossville, TN, which also made me chuckle…welcome to the Bible belt.).

Google told me this: Tennessee has a high concentration of small churches due to its history, demographics, and social structures. Many small churches are deeply rooted in rural communities, serving as vital centers for social, spiritual, and even economic support. The state's strong religious traditions, particularly among Protestant denominations, have historically led to the establishment of numerous congregations, often reflecting the diversity of religious beliefs within smaller, localized areas.

Having spent many years in a small church, I can say there’s truth to the idea of the church functioning as a large family. There were always people willing to help with virtually anything - and likewise, we could offer that same willingness to help. The only downside comes when we start to compare ourselves to the churches around us, compete for attendees, or forget that different styles are not salvation issues.

In ministry it is also easy to get distracted by the programs offered by organizations and think “we should do that” or “we should be more like them”. God has called Harvest to a specific mission: serving the local community through the Thrift Store, Harvest Helps, and telling our neighbors about Jesus along the way. Thank you for running THIS race with us!

Some More Sticky Notes:

Ms K - Received groceries for her family so she didn’t have to worry while recovering from surgery.

Ms C. - Received car repairs and groceries so she could work and take care of her daughter.

Ms S – is a domestic abuse survivor and given to pick out furniture for her new home and clothes for her kids.

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Tangible Hope

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:08:23 GMT

"The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9, NIV)

Dear Friends,

One of the most awe-inspiring and often overlooked attributes of our Heavenly Father is His long-suffering nature. Throughout Scripture, we see a God who is not quick to condemn, but slow to anger and rich in mercy. As it says in 2 Peter 3:9 (above). That verse captures the very heart of the gospel—a God who waits, who endures, and who loves us enough to give us time and space to turn toward Him.

At Harvest Youth Ministries, this divine patience is something we seek to model every day. The youth who come through our doors or contact us through our websites often arrive with heavy burdens—stories of rejection, trauma, addiction, or simply being forgotten by the world around them. And yet, we believe that no story is too far gone, no heart too hard, and no life too broken for God to redeem.

Because of your faithful support, we’re able to do more than offer encouragement—we provide real, tangible hope. We offer shelter for young women who have nowhere else to go. We provide life learning opportunities—skills like budgeting, emotional regulation, and decision-making—that help equip them for adulthood. We often connect them with job opportunities and mentors who walk alongside them as they grow in confidence and purpose. But most importantly, we surround them with the love of Christ. We speak truth. We listen without judgment. We pray with them. And we patiently wait, knowing that God is always working, even when progress is slow.

Your partnership in this ministry is not just financial—it’s deeply spiritual. You are helping us embody the patient love of God to a generation that desperately needs it. Thank you for believing in this mission, and for trusting that even small seeds of faith can grow into lives forever changed. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Sinners?

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:00:25 GMT

Nobody in their right mind would hesitate to say there is a war being waged on traditional values. Surely that was predicted since the beginning of time, and actually heralds the impending return of our Lord. What galls me is not that the world urges us to lay down our Christian values, but rather when those who profess that they know Jesus do it. Priests, pastors, elders, Sunday school teachers; you name it, there's someone at every level who claims to be a follower of Christ who will tell you that truth is relative and will not only "wink" at sin, but willfully sin themselves. God will not be mocked. A man reaps what He sows and a man who sows lies unfortunately can take many down with him. Surely sinful man will struggle against sin all the days of his life, but sinning on purpose is actually a sign a person does not know the Lord.

"Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he [Jesus] is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God." 1 John 3:7-9

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Service What?

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:00:46 GMT

Waiting for anything is just not a viable option for most people today. We can't even wait a couple of minutes for a microwave oven to heat something up without complaining! Where we really get into trouble, however, is when we go into debt to get things we really don't need. There's a reason for the phrase "service your debt." Whenever we are in debt to someone, we are in some ways a slave to them. If going into debt is an absolute necessity, then you probably don't have much choice. But, being in debt is one of the biggest reasons why people say they cannot afford to financially support the work of the Lord. Isn't it interesting that we strap ourselves with interest payments for things we "need" to impress other people and the result is we are unable (or unwilling) to give a cent to reaching the world with the Truth of the Lord we claim to serve. If you can, stay out of debt (especially revolving debt (like credit cards). You'll be a much more joyful person in the end!

"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender." Proverbs 22:7

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Do-Do!

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 10:00:06 GMT

Although living the Christian life can be incredibly difficult at times, when you boil it down it's a whole lot simpler than other world religions. You don't have to "do" a million things to try to get God's attention (as if a man could ever gain God's favor), and you don't have to be perfect, because Jesus already did that. What we have to do, I affectionately like to call, "Do-Do". "Do" give your life to Jesus, and then simply "Do" whatever He asks. You can be sure He will never ask you to do anything He's not already prepared you to do!

"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" Luke 6:46

Pastor Jim Kilby

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The Rise And Fall of Prayer!

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:00:25 GMT

Have you ever thought what would happen to the prayer life of an atheist if they fell off a thousand foot cliff? My suspicion is that they'd find a way to pray somewhere before the 999th foot of the drop! A fake prayer life rises and falls on the turn of circumstances, but a consistent walk with Christ will always be marked by persistent prayer. For the Christ follower with authentic faith such a thing isn't even difficult--it's automatic. When they're in trouble, they pray. When they're happy, they pray. When things are going on as usual, they pray! Though it's a tough pill to swallow, any less of a prayer life is a sign that the heart of the believer is still not completely sold-out to the Lord. Here are a couple of hints to help develop such a faith:

1.Know God and trust only in His Son, Jesus Christ.

2.Know that Jesus is coming again soon.

3.Know that the stakes are very high!

"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up." Luke 18:1

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Wicked?

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:00:18 GMT

Elizabeth Kilby

Freedom!

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:39:16 GMT

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free."

(Galatians 5:1, NIV)

Dear Friends,

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:00:19 GMT

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34

Those of the Jewish faith had (and still have) a serious problem with Jesus. Not only did He rock their religious establishment, but they were looking for a different kind of savior. They interpreted Scriptures that indicated the Messiah would come to destroy their enemies as proof that no "passivist" could be their long-awaited Messiah. Even though He sometimes talked about destruction of their enemies, He seemingly did nothing! Where was the sword? Where were the mass graves filled with Israel's enemies? Although there are some fringe groups who believe otherwise, true Christians (like the Christ they follow) do not need to kill or mock those who don't believe like they do. We are not like governments around the world who put those of other faiths to death. We live in and among many who think and believe differently than us. We don't drive airplanes into buildings to kill many and intimidate others. None of us are called to machine-gun others because of their faith! We are called to use a different type of sword. It's the one that Jesus brought that remains largely unnoticed by an unbelieving world. Oh, His enemies will fall by the sword alright, but not by one made of steel! They will fall by the sword He left for us to read, study, and become experts at yielding! Honestly, have you picked up your sword lately?

"Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6:17

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." Hebrews 4:12-13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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1, 2, 3, 4...

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 17:34:54 GMT

God is able to do far more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He does
everything by his power that is working in us. (Ephesians 3:20)

Friends,

Last month, I hesitated to include all four sticky note stories at the bottom of my newsletter—I had a moment of panic. What if next month is slower and I don’t have any stories to share?!

But y’all… last month’s newsletter highlighted the overwhelming number of people in the Dayton area who need help—and then God showed up in a big way. In addition to regular funding, we received another generous donation specifically designated for Harvest Helps, allowing us to serve even more people! What a blessing it was to write down their names, fill out their sticky notes for my wall, and tell them, “Jesus loves you.”

Aaron reminded me there would always be people who need help and people who want to help. It was a timely reminder to stay the course!

Please join me in praying for this month’s Harvest Helps recipients and ask God to continue pouring out His blessings on the Dayton area. Right now, we’re working to meet needs related to transportation, housing, clothing, and food.

Hopefully, those are the names I’ll be sharing with you next month!

Some More Sticky Notes:

Ms V - Received clothing needed for her grandson

Miss L - Trafficking survivor who needed a bus pass and clothing

Ms B - Received a car payment and a grocery order

Mr A - Received some personal hygiene items

Unknown - Received clothing to meet an immediate need

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Why?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 17:28:08 GMT

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33 (NIV)

Dear Friends,

Have you ever asked, “Why is this happening to me?” or “Why do the righteous suffer?” If so, you’re not alone. This question echoes through the ages—from Job’s cries in the Old Testament to the quiet prayers of believers today.

Jesus never promised us a life free from hardship. In fact, He said quite the opposite: like in John 16:33 (above).

We often expect that doing good should shield us from pain. But Scripture reminds us that suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—it’s often where His presence is most deeply felt. The Apostle Paul, who endured beatings, imprisonment, and shipwrecks, wrote: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed... struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)

Why does God allow suffering? Sometimes it’s to refine our faith, to draw us closer to Him, or to allow His glory to shine through our weakness. Other times, we may not understand the reason this side of heaven. But we can trust that our pain is never wasted.

Jesus Himself, the only truly “good” person, suffered more than we can imagine. He was betrayed, beaten, and crucified—not because He deserved it, but because He chose to bear our burdens. His suffering brought us salvation.

So when trials come, remember: you are not alone. Christ walks with you. And though this life brings sorrow, it also brings hope—hope anchored in the One who overcame the grave.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Waging War?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 10:00:23 GMT

What do you spend most of your time fighting? In the course of any given day I'll wind up fighting the craziest stuff; my copier for example, traffic, people who don't see things my way, and I even seem to fight with myself a lot, too. But is that where Christians are supposed to be waging war? In this life there's not going to be any end to the stuff we need to put up with day-to-day, but win or lose, is any of it really important in the spiritual sense? And, if we are fighting against the world, then why are we doing it with anything less than spiritual weapons? If we could have fought the Satan and his angels by ourselves, Jesus wouldn't have had to die to break the bonds of sin! I'm convinced that we (the church today) has a very shallow view of prayer and of the powers of darkness in this age. It's almost funny that just about any New Age, Buddhist or Wicca follower would know more about the spirit world than we would. Forget about your worldly troubles and get serious about praying for God's will to be done. You just might be blown away at how God breaks down what lies before you!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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I Can't!

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:00:30 GMT

"I just can't do it!"

Do those words sound familiar to you? Maybe you've even said them yourself. I get a good amount of mail from teens (and even some adults) who are seeking advice on an issue of sin in their life. I research the item biblically, and then I respond with the appropriate Scripture, and usually some words of encouragement. Often, I'll get a reply in a few days with the "I can't!" statement. I guess I'm rarely surprised by it because I was once in the same boat. Several bad habits and some persistent sins were just impossible for me to gain any real ground on. And then one day everything changed. I stopped focusing on what I needed to stop and started focusing on what I needed to start. First, I embraced God on His terms, repenting and accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior--my only hope! Then I began to attend church and to study His Word daily. Before long I developed a habit of prayer, and before even I knew it, nearly all of my old ways had faded away. It's quite simple really. We need God to make us new. Until we're born again, we just can't seem to get away from our old heritage--the heritage we have with Satan. When we scream "I can't," we're probably right!

"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws." Ezekiel 36:26-27

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Interruption?

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:23:32 GMT

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

Dear Friends,

Have you ever noticed how God has a way of placing people in your path—often when it's least convenient? A neighbor with a flat tire. A coworker who seems withdrawn. A stranger who shares just a little too much in line at the store. It's easy to see these moments as interruptions… but what if they are invitations? With the realization that God is either in charge of everything, or He’s in charge of nothing, the people you encounter just can’t be accidents.

People are placed in our lives with purpose—by a God who orchestrates everything for His glory and your growth. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us (above). Sometimes meeting needs is big—like helping someone move, giving financially, or stepping into a mentoring relationship. Other times, it's small—an encouraging word, a listening ear, or a silent prayer. But no act of kindness, done in Jesus’ name, is ever wasted. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus was often "interrupted." A bleeding woman reached for His cloak. A desperate father cried out for healing. A tax collector climbed a tree just to see Him. In every case, Jesus stopped. He saw the person, not the inconvenience. And He met them where they were. If we’re to walk as Jesus walked, we too must learn to slow down, to look around, and to listen for the Spirit’s prompting. That nudge you feel to call someone? Do it. That person you keep running into? Ask them how they’re really doing. You may just be the answer to someone’s prayer.

God uses people to reach people—and you never know when your obedience could be the turning point in someone’s life. When we remain open, available, and responsive, the ordinary moments become extraordinary.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

One?

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:20:16 GMT

Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers
and sisters of mine, you did for me. (Matthew 25:40, NIV)

Friends,

Driving down I-35 has become a routine part of my day. Along the way, it’s impossible to miss the tents lining the road or the people at nearly every exit holding signs that read: “Need Help,” “Hungry,” “Homeless.”

Honestly, there are times I just want to keep my head down, avoid eye contact, and continue on with my day.

It’s not that I don’t care. It’s the feeling of being overwhelmed. There are so many people in need that I sometimes don’t even know where to begin. A friend recently asked if we knew anything about “the man on the corner,” and Aaron and I both responded, “Which one?” It's become such a common sight, and that reality is heartbreaking.

So where am I going with this?

There’s a quote I’ve shared before, often attributed to preacher Andy Stanley: “Do for one what you wish you could do for everyone.” That line has stuck with me. I know we can’t provide food or housing for every person in need—even just in Dayton. But I also know that refusing to help one person simply because we can’t help them all doesn’t make any sense.

That’s where Harvest Helps comes in. We don’t have a multi-million dollar budget, but when applications come in, we do our best to thoughtfully evaluate each one. Sometimes, something as simple as a gas card can be life-changing—and that single act of support can ripple out into the wider community.

Each of the names on the “sticky notes” is one person who has been seen and loved because of your generosity and given hope for another day. Thank you!

Some More Sticky Notes:

Mr R - Given one time rent help so he wasn't evicted!

Why Not?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:00:35 GMT

Have you ever watched a newly caged animal trying to get out? Even the simplest form of animal can often find a way to free itself. The other day I sat and watched a raccoon trying to get into a "raccoon proof" trash can. It took him (or maybe her!) a few minutes, but it was "dinner time" at the trash can before I could believe it. Oftentimes I write these devotionals and you would think I was the meanest guy ever if you read my return mail. With what seems like similar enthusiasm, people will often do just about anything to convince me that I'm wrong on my stance on an issue. If they can't convince me I'm wrong, then sometimes they'll just curse me and unsubscribe. Frankly, even a simpleton like me can generally see right through the arguments. People who have decided in their hearts that they want to do something (or don't want do something) will spend an unbelievable amount of time and energy looking for loopholes. They'll search high and low for a reason why, or a reason why not! I'm often reminded that "Christians" throughout the last 2000 years have been searching for ways to justify their sinful actions, many even misusing Scriptures to justify the most terrible of crimes. Just imagine if we spent as much time trying to find ways to DO the things our Lord has commanded as we spend trying to convince ourselves, others, and even Him that we shouldn't have to!

"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" Luke 6:46

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Oh Brother

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:00:01 GMT

Jesus breaks down walls! When I was younger, I would never have considered hanging out with people who didn't have a lot in common with me. Today, I find I have a lot in common with people who are nothing like me because we're brothers and sisters in Christ. Whether the boundaries are racial, socioeconomic or just plain generational, Jesus can break down all of them if we let them. If you're irritated by the random boundaries people throw up to separate themselves from people who "aren't like them," you'll find the right church can be a real breath of fresh air in that area. This type of earth-shattering love has been taking place since the moment Jesus rose from the grave. The earliest Christians even allowed their #1 enemy to join their ranks once the Lord convicted him of his sin.

"Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, BROTHER SAUL, the Lord--Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here--has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Acts 9:17 (Emphasis added)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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New Shoes?

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 10:00:04 GMT

"Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' In tithes and offerings." Malachi 3:8

I have a young Christian friend who has nearly 20 pairs of very expensive basketball shoes. While I certainly have nothing against a great pair of shoes, I found it a little weird that he buys a pair of shoes almost every payday. Since he makes little more than minimum wage, it has to take a huge chunk of his check. Since I've been a mentor of his for years, I found the opportunity to ask him how he could afford such an expensive treat each month. It wasn't long before I understood quite clearly. He doesn't save any money, and he doesn't give anything to the Lord. Now that I think about it, maybe I do have something against a good pair of basketball shoes--but only if they're stolen, of course.

"On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income" 1 Corinthians 16:2a

Pastor Jim Kilby

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I'm Busy!

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:00:56 GMT

Have you ever heard the saying, "Preachers only work one day a week"? Although most people would never believe such a thing, many probably do think that the average construction worker, regular 9 to 5 employee, or even a fast food employee work harder than their pastor. While I'm sure there are some who are slacking, the pastors I know are among the hardest workers I've ever met, and what's more, they carry the burdens of more people than you can imagine. My suspicion is that your pastor (or priest) is serving you in ways you haven't even thought of yet. Have you done anything to help with the ministry at your church lately? Have you shared the gospel of Jesus Christ with anyone lately? Have you invited someone to church in the last month or so? If not, today is the day! There has never been a day in the life of my ministry where we've had enough money or enough servants--I'd bet the same is true of your church, too.

"He told them, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'" Luke 10:2

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Indifference?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:00:56 GMT

Jesus preached almost non-stop for three years straight, giving us a wonderful view into the Father's heart, and into what we should be striving for in this life. He broke down the walls between His Father and us by the most amazing of ways--dying in our place! As I read through Jesus' words, I find it interesting that he spoke against our indifference so often and so strongly. Apathy is a killer to any faith, and especially to one where it becomes so commonplace as to be expected. George Barna, the Christian pollster writes that his polls show that a full 66% of churchgoers are nothing more than observers, and we all know that of the 34% remaining, few are sold-old to Christ. And thus it is no doubt the genesis for our Lord's many attempts to encourage us to keep the faith. Satan works non-stop to keep us caring less. And we often play right into his hands.

"I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of my God." Jesus of Nazareth (Revelation 2:1b-2)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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I'm Scared!

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:01 GMT

Have you ever been really scared? Although I'm not a big fan of haunted houses and stuff like that, I can tell you that I went through a couple when I was a teenager and one in particular was pretty scary. Still, it paled in comparison to the fear I felt some years later as the conviction of the Holy Spirit came over me and I realized that I was destined for hell. Realizing that I'd flirted with hell for twenty years and could have died at any moment not knowing the Lord scared me good! That realization was clearly from God. It resulted in me being born again and starting a new life in Christ. Many are under a false assumption that scary things come from hell and good things from heaven. I believe the opposite may actually be true. Satan wants us to be just as happy as possible in this life and eternally damned afterward. God wants us to come to know Him in this life and will bring many scary things our way in an attempt to jerk us into reality.

"On that day messengers will go out from me in ships to frighten Cush out of her complacency." Ezekiel 30:9a

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Good Friday?

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 00:28:43 GMT

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." (John 10:27, NIV)

Dear Friends,

During a worship service last week, I sensed the Lord was talking specifically to me. Every time I tried to pass it off as silliness, the same message came back, again, and again, and again. So, I whispered, "Is this for me, Lord?" The feeling I received was overwhelming. I haven't stopped thinking about it since. As believers, we are called to walk closely with the Lord, being sensitive to His voice and direction. Yet in our busy lives, it can be easy to miss His whispers. How do we cultivate a heart that is tuned to the Holy Spirit?

God primarily speaks through His Word. The more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more clearly we recognize His voice. The psalmist reminds us, " Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105).

We also need to create space for stillness. The Holy Spirit often speaks in the quiet moments. In 1 Kings 19:12, Elijah hears God not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. When we quiet our hearts through prayer and reflection, we make room to hear the Lord's guidance.

Also, we've got to consider that prayer is not just all talking to God. It is also listening. When we pause and ask the Lord to speak, He often places a thought, a Scripture, or a sense of direction on our hearts. Jesus tells us in John 16:13, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth." So we need to be still at times, and wait as the Holy Spirit nudges us in various ways - through conviction, a sudden thought, or even through other believers. It's important to test what we hear against Scripture and seek confirmation in prayer.

When He speaks, James 1:22 tells us to be "doers of the word, and not hearers only." Then, when we sense the Lord's leading, we step out in faith.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Thankless?

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:00:18 GMT

I spent more than 20 years in the military and although I never was called to give my life for my country, I certainly understood the concept of dying for a greater cause than myself. Everyone of us was prepared to do just that if necessary. During the Cold War I spent several years in Europe, on a few occasions mere inches from the border of Soviet controlled territory. We were never far from a chemical, biological, or even a nuclear weapon that was aimed squarely at our forces. While that was unnerving at times, what bothered me the most was that back in the United States, many who went to school with me and who stayed to make a better living, never gave much of a thought to the sacrifices I and others made for them. Often I felt like we were taken for granted. And as I see soldiers giving their lives once again, I wonder how many of us give a second thought unless they're personally related to us. While you prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving Day this month, consider what's been sacrificed on your behalf, even this very day! Jesus did not die so that we could live thankless lives of selfishness. Give thanks, and give the glory to God. Everything you have, even life itself, has been bought for you at a great price!

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name." Psalm 100:4

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Ten Questions!

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Believing that small groups of men and women (separately of course) holding each other accountable is probably the best way I've ever found to stay strong in the Lord, my group and I have continuously modified a group of questions (always around ten in number) to fit our needs. Since people occasionally ask for them, I've generally made them available on my web site. Here's the latest list my group uses. Feel free to use them, change them, or share them with others, but don't forget to find someone to hold you accountable in the areas you could stumble--it's the only way to stay strong and ultimately to finish strong in your faith.

1. Have you spent a portion of each day in the study of God's Word, in prayer, and are you seeking knowledge and growth through other Christian media?

2. Have you attempted to share your faith with an unbeliever?

3. Has anything unwholesome come out of your mouth, including jokes, negative criticism, foul language, lies or half truths?

4. Have you taken good physical care of your body; including exercise and proper eating and sleeping habits?

5. Have you been completely above reproach with your financial dealings and at work, school, etc?

6. Have you shared enough of your time with your family and friends?

7. Have you had any lustful attitudes, improper thoughts, or been exposed to any material that would not glorify God?

8. Do you harbor any bitterness, anger or resentment in your heart toward anyone or anything?

9. Have you allowed any person or circumstance to rob you of your joy in the Lord?

10. Do you have any other burden to share with the group?

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Walking Together?

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:39:33 GMT

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
Proverbs 17:17

Friends,

This week, I had the joy of taking my oldest daughter to the BMV to get her temporary driving permit. As we walked in, I told her she was in charge—she had to tell the clerk what she needed, answer their questions, and handle the process herself.

She looked at me in (joking) panic and blurted out, “What if I forget my name?”

I assured her I wasn’t going anywhere, and if needed, I’d be right there to remind her. She did great, and now… well, be a little extra cautious on the roads!

This moment, while hilarious, reminded me of something deeper. My daughter had confidence because she knew I was there with her. She wasn’t alone. But what about the people who don’t have that?

I recently spoke with a woman who shared how she’s been abandoned—estranged from family, let down by friends, and dismissed by people who once cared. She feels unseen, unheard, and forgotten.

Walking with someone through life isn’t always easy. It’s often messy, uncomfortable, and even inconvenient. But that’s what makes it matter. People don’t just need someone when life is good—they need someone who will stay when things get hard, when mistakes are made, and when the road feels impossible. Who in your life needs to be reminded they’re not alone? Maybe send them a quick text. And remember, we’re here to walk with you too!

Some More Sticky Notes:

Mr. W - Needed electric bill paid to keep lights on for himself and his two teen children.

Miss J - Local 16 year old who requested we send her a Bible!

Ms. C - Emailed asking for prayer while she was in the hospital!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 10:00:01 GMT

How important are you in your school, sports team, or other group? Are you one of those people who are immediately the most valuable player, or are you one who has to struggle for any recognition at all? As sad as it may seem, there are teens who take their own lives each day because they don't feel like they fit in--that they are somehow less important or valuable than those around them. On the other side of the coin, there are teens that always seem to find ways to point out just how valuable they are. Some of them never seem to shut up about how good they are at this or that! Either extreme is wrong from a biblical perspective. We ARE valuable, because God made us and gifted us with talents and abilities to serve Him and others. Because we each are incredibly valuable in our own right, we don't need to be prideful about it. The truth is that many of the people who talk endlessly about their worth are the ones that doubt it the most. Practically everything they do is in an effort to convince themselves. So, no matter what everyone else says about you and no matter what you may think about yourself, you are an incredible work of art! God says so, and that's all that matters! With that settled, spend the time you once spent on that subject investigating what He wants you to do with the life He gave you!

"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 10:29-31) the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority to men." Matthew 9:8

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Applause?

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

A good friend wrote me about a concern he has about his church body. It seems they get real excited about the worship band and other musical events, but he wonders if the applause is for the musicians or for the Lord. Frankly, I believe it's OK to praise God for the talents and abilities of the musicians and for their service to the Body, but my friend is probably correct in his concern. I've been in many churches and believe that most of the applause is not aimed at the Lord (as in a big "Amen!"), but rather toward the musicians who are there to serve the Lord. Honestly, we hold them in much higher esteem than we should, i.e., not for their service to the Lord, but because our culture worships musicians! We have several biblical examples where apostles and prophets of the Lord worked miracles and then were presented with payment. They always refused the payment or the praise and reflected the credit toward God. Many musicians I know do exactly that--reflect the praise toward God. But, as worshippers, we need to be sure to aim it there in the first place!

"When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority to men." Matthew 9:8

Pastor Jim Kilby

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It Hurts!

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Have you ever tried to comfort someone and had them cry those words on your shoulder? Have you ever spoken those words in a tearful slobber? I've done both, because life just isn't fair at times! People are wicked to each other, and frankly, few seem to care! Oftentimes, even those who care don't seem like they've really ever been through the same things you've been through. How could they really understand unless they've been there? We can take great comfort in knowing that Jesus lived through every type of pain possible, and did it all without striking back at His oppressors. He too cried, but not for Himself. He cried for those who would murder Him, and for those who needed comfort. There is nothing man or beast can do to you that Jesus cannot understand.

"I, even I, am he who comforts you. Who are you that you fear mortal men, the sons of men, who are but grass, that you forget the Lord your Maker, who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth, that you live in constant terror every day because of the wrath of the oppressor, who is bent on destruction? For where is the wrath of the oppressor? The cowering prisoners will soon be set free; they will not die in their dungeon, nor will they lack bread." Isaiah 51:12-14

Pastor Jim Kilby

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New Age Question

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:00:01 GMT

Some of the most on-fire Christians I know are teenagers. The Lord has preserved a large number of young people who call on His name regardless of what everyone else is doing. The Lord always does that, but my question for today is "What IS everyone else doing?" From my vantage point I see three camps. Many young people see no God but themselves. They ignore every message from Him in honor of what they would rather be doing. Another group is lost in church, but the meaning and the Holy Spirit are missing from their congregations. They hate church, and they are left wanting and wondering. The last group is a large and growing group that's begun taking up what many a nation of young people have taken up before--New Age (or should we call it "old age" remixed) religions. This group is probably the most dangerous of the lot, because at least the other two groups know they're not "down with the Lord!" Satan's lies work well on this last group because their hearts have been grabbed by things taught by demons.

"They are full of superstitions from the East; they practice divination like the Philistines and clasp hands with pagans. Their land is full of silver and gold; there is no end to their treasures. Their land is full of horses; there is no end to their chariots. Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made. So man will be brought low and mankind humbled--do not forgive them." Isaiah 2:6b-9

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:00:04 GMT

I've found that that majority of people who want nothing to do with religion are still interested in having their children learn the values and ethics that come along with it. For most Americans, that means that parents are usually not opposed to allowing their children to attend Vacation Bible Schools, youth groups, etc. This is interesting to me because one of two things generally occurs. Either the young person begins to believe that religion is only for children, and outgrows it as they begin struggling with sins, OR, they give their lives to Christ and have a dramatic effect on their homes, some even leading their parents to the Lord. As a father, if there's one thing I want for my children it's that they have a strong relationship with Christ. For the non-Christian father, unfortunately even the good things they want for their children will be worthless unless Christ creates a miracle in them!

"The offspring of the wicked will never be mentioned again." Isaiah 14:20b

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Irritant!

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 18:48:10 GMT

"Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we

will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Dear Friends,

As followers of Christ, we are called to be His hands and feet, reaching out to those in need with love, compassion, and generosity. Whether through small acts of kindness or larger gestures of service, every opportunity to help others is a chance to reflect God’s love. Sometimes, we may feel that our efforts are insignificant, but even the smallest act—an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a listening ear—can be used by God in powerful ways. He calls us to be faithful in whatever way we can, trusting that He will multiply our efforts for His glory.

At Harvest Youth Ministries, this is at the heart of what we do through all of our various ministry outlets. We believe that serving others is not just an action but a lifestyle that demonstrates the love of Christ. Whether it’s through providing practical help, offering a shoulder to lean on, or simply being present for someone who is struggling, we embrace every opportunity to make a difference. But our work doesn’t stop at meeting physical needs—we also seek to pray for people and share the gospel whenever God opens the door. True help is not just in what we can do for others, but in pointing them to the One who can truly transform their lives. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This is literally the verse that inspired me when we founded this organization.

Let us continue to walk in faith, always looking for ways to bless those around us and bring the hope of Christ into their lives. As Jesus says in Matthew 5:16 , "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." May we always be ready to serve, pray, and share the good news, trusting that God will use us to make an eternal impact for His kingdom. As always, thank YOU for the part you play in providing financial help, or just rooting us on in the heavenly realm!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Precious Possession

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 18:46:06 GMT

Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume;
she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair.
And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. John 1 2:3

Friends,

I am so excited to share with you an email I recently received. Here’s the text:

I just wanted to thank you and the church for this amazing bed! It’s much appreciated, please thank the church. If the church ever needs some volunteer help please let me know or if you are aware of any safe women who may be living in their cars, trying to avoid truck stops/shelters etc… who might be in need of a clean, safe place to shower, please feel free to pass on my email/phone number and my home is open to them. I dont have much to give or offer but I do have that! :)

I don’t know about you, but it makes me want to cry. It reminds me of the account of Mary taking her most precious possession and sharing it freely with Jesus. The woman who sent the email? Her most precious possession is arguably a safe place to live and call home. Her willingness to hold it loosely, to open it up to other women who also need someone to see them and love them – goodness that gets me!

Thank you for being a part of these stories. God is so GOOD!

Some More Sticky Notes:
Miss B: We are helping her with some apartment applications so she can get into a stable living environment!

Miss R: We were able to help her put down a deposit for a new apartment for her family. She and one of her kiddos is disabled and so having the extra funds really helped stretch their very tight budget!

Unnamed Man: The staff at the thrift store was able to gift a homeless man find some warm, dry shoes this past week!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

It's Real!

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:00:04 GMT

I sometimes get the feeling that Christians don't really believe that some people will be eternally hurt because of our action or inaction. It seems like we get into this mode where we think, "well, I didn't share the gospel with them, but if God wants it to be shared, He'll get somebody to do it!" He did get somebody. He got you, but you didn't do it! Just the same, when evil is done in the name of religion, or in any name, evil is still done! If one person starts a cult that leads tens of thousands astray, then tens of thousands are fuel for God's wrath on judgment day, and in large part as the result of one person's actions. The mission to serve our Lord Jesus is not a game. There are eternities at risk everywhere!

"Woe to the women who sew magic charms on all their wrists and make veils of carious lengths for their heads in order to ensnare people. Will you ensnare the loves of my people but preserve your own? You have profaned me among my people for a few handfuls of barley and scraps of bread. By lying to my people, who listen to lies, you have killed those who should not have died and have spared those who should not live." Ezekiel 13:18b-19

Pastor Jim Kilby

Your donation spreads good news!
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Lost Supervisor?

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Pastor Jim Kilby

Your donation spreads good news!
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Harvest?

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 18:08:33 GMT

"Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your

eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.’"

John 4:35 (NIV)

Dear Friends,

Why did we name our ministry “Harvest” Youth Ministries? It’s more than just a name…. it’s who we are, and it’s our mission. In a world often weighed down by uncertainty and darkness, the Gospel of Jesus Christ shines as a beacon of hope. The word "Gospel" means "good news," and it is indeed the greatest news humanity has ever received. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has made a way for us to be reconciled to Him, offering forgiveness, peace, and eternal life to all who believe.

The Gospel is not only good news for individuals but also a call to action for all believers. Jesus speaks of a plentiful harvest, saying, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field” (Luke 10:2). The harvest represents those whose hearts are ready to receive the message of salvation, to turn from darkness to light, and to find hope in Christ. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be workers in this field, sowing seeds of faith and truth through our words, actions, and love. When we share the Gospel, we become part of God’s divine plan to gather this great harvest, bringing more people into His kingdom.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 5:14-16 that we are the light of the world, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. As we reflect His light, we are to let it shine before others, pointing them to the source of our hope and joy. This calling is not a burden but a privilege, as we join in the mission of spreading the good news. Let us sow faithfully, pray fervently, and trust that God, the Lord of the harvest, will bring forth an abundant harvest for His glory. In this work, we are reminded that the light of Christ will never be overcome by darkness, and the good news will continue to transform lives for eternity.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Remember in Prayer

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 18:07:00 GMT

I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father,
may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
(Ephesians 1:16-17, NIV) )

Friends,

I love sticky notes. And fun pens. And organizational systems. Goodness, they make my heart sing. If you didn’t know that about me, now you do! My sister recently gave me a whole stack of sticky notes. I have learned not to give them to my children because they end up on every surface of the house. So, this pack of neon colored possibilities just stared at me from my desk drawer.

I also love prayer. I didn’t use to love it because I saw it as a “have to” task list item I wasn’t very good at until a couple years ago.

And why, why am I sharing this with you? Glad you asked. I am wall papering my office in sticky notes. Every need filled with Harvest Helps, any mentoring situation with Harvest House, any email / text / please pray is going on a sticky note and onto the wall. At this rate though, I may need a different system. I just wanted to share some of these with you:

Miss O: Lives in transitional housing and was given clothing, household, and hygiene items. She accepted them with a hug and a thank you. There was a note tucked in the bottom of the box reminding her she is seen and loved by the Lord!

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 11:00:07 GMT

"Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.'" Jesus (Matthew 9:37)

Are you a busy person? Just about everyone looks busy to me, but I often wonder what they're so busy doing. What are their lives all about? What is keeping them so occupied? There are generally only a few things that motivate people to be busy; the Lord's work is one, but much more popular are wealth, power and prestige. When Jesus spoke the words, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few," no doubt His disciples understood he was talking about the vast crowds that followed Him but really didn't know Him, as well as the hordes of people who couldn't have cared less who He was. What troubles me is not that there are still hordes of people who couldn't care less who He is, but that many who say they know Him and love Him are actually more interested in chasing wealth, power and prestige with the lost than they are in leading the lost to Christ. So.... are you a busy person? It's fine to be busy, and even to be busy at work that has nothing to do with the Kingdom of God. But what is it that really drives you? If it's not the Lord's work, then who's work is it?

"He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son." Proverbs 10:6

Pastor Jim Kilby

Your donation spreads good news!
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Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:00:06 GMT

Lots of people are cool with the concept of God, but when you try to define that concept further, they start to get squeamish. For example, you can tell just about anyone you believe in God and they probably won't get too aggravated even if they don't agree. But, if you tell someone that you believe that Jesus IS God, then you've spoken fighting words in many circles. Jesus addressed similar arguments many times during His earthly ministry, but probably never as succinctly as this:

"He who hates me hates my Father as well." John 15:23

God clearly tells us that there are three parts to His nature; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Deny that any part of God is in fact God, and you have denied God all together.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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A Personal Update

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 01:26:03 GMT

We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you
not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you
had become so dear to us. (1 Thessalonians 2:8)

Friends,

I usually try to use the space in these newsletters to share a ministry win, a current struggle, or something that conveys the heart of what Harvest Youth is working toward. This month though, I thought I'd take a quick detour and share a family update. Your support allows our family to continue to serve with Harvest and I thought a personal update was in order!

Aaron and I have both served with Harvest for over 20 years. It is incredible to me how God took people who were socially awkward and extremely introverted and grew us into people who don't mind standing in front of people to share the good news of the Gospel. We have both been working hard in our "areas" of ministry. Aaron has really taken the focus of the thrift store to serving our community and being the public touch point of Harvest. I have been working on growing Harvest Helps and figuring out best practices for making sure this ministry is serving our community well. And something must be going right - we now have national non-profits sending clients our way for help!

Our kids (all 8 of them!) are thriving this year! They all had roles in their homeschool group's Christmas play and made the cutest angels, shepherds, Mary, and speakers. They are all also involved in AWANA and it has been so fun to see them memorize scripture and being to learn how to apply it! Talk about making my momma heart happy! I was able to take a few of them with me recently to pick up a food donation and then deliver it to another local mom and it was exciting to involve them. They know we work for a ministry, but for them to see what that (sometimes) practically looks like was so fun! It's also a blessing to have boys with some muscle to help me move the heavy boxes!

We have been in a season of refining. I think God has been using some medical issues for Aaron and me to cause us to remember to slow down and turn to Him. (And I'd love prayers for complete healing!). But more than that, I am overjoyed God continues to show up, in the most unexpected ways, and just continues to show me over and over how good He is.

Thank you for letting me ramble, brag on my kids, and share my heart. God is so good and I am thankful we are on this journey with you. Please feel free to send me an email (Beth@HarvestYouth.org) if there are any ways we can serve or bless you and yours.

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

New Seasons!

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 01:20:55 GMT

“Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward
to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal
for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 3:13-14, NIV)

Dear Friends,

As the new year begins, I’m reminded of God’s faithfulness in every season of our lives. The year behind us was filled with blessings, challenges, and opportunities to grow in our walk with Him. In the words of the Apostle Paul to the Philippians (above), this is a season to reflect, to release, and to renew. We can let go of the weight of past mistakes, the fear of the unknown, and even the pride in past accomplishments, choosing instead to focus on the hope and promises that lie ahead.

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 11:00:06 GMT

One day the Lord was especially hard on Peter (or at least Peter thought so). When Jesus was finished telling Peter what He wanted Him to do and how Peter would eventually be martyred, Peter stuck his foot in his mouth by pointing at John and essentially complaining to Jesus that the other disciple hadn't been asked to do enough!

"When Peter saw him [John], he asked, 'Lord, what about him?' Jesus answered, 'If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.'" John 21:22

We often take the same type of complaint to Jesus when even less is being asked of us. The problem arises when we compare ourselves and our ministries with others. God's will for YOU is God's will for YOU! The ministry which He created you for and prepared you for is for YOU. Don't let anyone judge the ministry you've received from the Lord, and be careful not to judge anyone else's ministry either.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Stop!

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT

How long have you been a Christian? Have you been attending church and spending time in the Word for years now? I have... and I've been attending and teaching Bible studies, preaching, heading up ministries, and much more for quite a while as well. The only problem is that not one bit of the hours I've spent doing any of those things means a bit to the Lord if I also do not DO what I have learned! Far too many people are educated beyond their desire to obey! The next time you're reading the Bible and something slays your spirit--STOP! Write it down! Underline it! Get on your knees right there and pray about it. Doing anything less proves you're not really following the One you call "Lord!"

"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." James 1:22

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Treasure?

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT

"Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word." Psalm 119:67

When I was a young man I absolutely hated getting in trouble. I always thought my parents were too hard on me and I would have done just about anything not to get caught doing something wrong. That did not include, however, not doing anything wrong! I didn't have an aversion to being evil, I just didn't want to get caught doing it! As I've grown older, believe it or not, I've actually learned to treasure the boundaries, the discipline and even the punishment that was laid out for me in my youth. Without it, I would have never become anything God could use for positive.

"It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold." Psalm 119:71-72

Pastor Jim Kilby

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A Christmas "Thought" from 735 BC...

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 11:00:02 GMT

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:00:03 GMT

Traveling through Europe in the early 1980's gave me a whole new realization of what the Christian church was like for many centuries. I have never seen anything so ornate or so expensive than the church buildings I saw there. Almost everything is covered in gold. What isn't gold is either marble, or carved stone, or inlaid wood... well, you get the picture. While I believe such buildings are incredibly beautiful and were clearly built in an attempt to honor God, our Lord is less interested in buildings than He is in hearts. While the Old Testament Temple of the Lord was standing, God's presence dwelt there. Now, Christians ARE the Temple of the Lord. God is not contained in any building, and Jesus said as much many times. Once, while walking out of the Temple, Jesus' disciples pointed to the Temple to show Him the majesty of what man had built. In response, Jesus pointed out the temporary nature of everything we build with our hands. Today, many congregations still spend substantial amounts of money erecting buildings. While buildings and meeting places are wonderful, and quite often necessary. I believe we should be careful that we keep our hearts focused on building up people. Build what you need out of bricks and steel, but remember that God doesn't dwell there. His Spirit lives in the hearts of believers.

"Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. 'Do you see all these things?' he asked. 'I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.'" Matthew 24:1-2

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 11:00:01 GMT

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, we give thanks for all of you, and what God has chosen to do through this ministry. May we all continue to be grateful for His awesome grace!

THANKSGIVING

Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. (Colossians 4:17)

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of god. (2 Corinthians 7:1)

Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness charity. (2 Peter 1:5-7)

Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. (1 Timothy 4:14)

Keep ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. (Jude 21)

Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15)

God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. (Hebrews 6:10)

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7)

Verily, verily I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that send me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. (John 5:24)

In him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. (Acts 17:28)

Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. (John 15:3)

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (Luke 6:38) Source Unknown

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Search Me?

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT

What would happen if your closest friends or your family could read your every thought? What would it feel like if everyone had a clear window into your soul--knowing every deep and dark secret about you? I think that would be scary for even the purest of us! But God's not afraid of such a thing because He doesn't have anything to hide. There is no sin in Him, and therefore, through His Spirit we have an open line to search the deepest things of the Lord. Not only that, but we have an endless invitation to search Him and learn His ways and the truths of the glorious salvation He's granted those who believe! Wouldn't it be wonderful to be sin free; able to truly be intimate with people without needing to hide the dark side of our souls. Oh for the day the Lord takes that part of us away!

"The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not receved the Spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us." 1 Corinthisans 2:10b-11

Pastor Jim Kilby

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All or Nothing?

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 11:00:01 GMT

Many approach Jesus as a wonderful and God-sent way to receive forgiveness of sins. Like a trip to a filling station, they pray a prayer, receive a water baptism and believe they've received salvation. While those things are certainly part of a new Christian's walk, the actions we must take do not stop there. The Scriptures are chock full of exhortations for us to then prove our love for Jesus with our deeds. Our good works don't earn us salvation, but they are evidence of the salvation we've received. Proof that the Holy Spirit resides in us. Instead, we prefer to approach Jesus with an "I'll follow you until it gets uncomfortable" attitude. Those biblical characters who mentioned such an approach to His face not only received firm rebukes, but most were told plainly they would never approach His throne. The truth is that Jesus wants all of us, or he'll have none of us. He doesn't share his disciples with other gods. To think anything different is to believe that a truly loving husband would allow his bride to be passed around among his friends. She's either 100% your bride, or she's nothing in your eyes.

"Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will fine it." Matthew 10:37-39

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Dancing In The Dark?

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:06 GMT

A lot of young people I know like to dance. Not the kinds of dancing you're probably thinking of, but the kind where hey step into the church on Sunday, and then they step back into the world on Monday. For a good number of years I too believed this type of dancing was okay. I thought a Christian could keep their faith separate from their worldly pursuits. Eventually, the Lord convicted me of my hypocrisy and my dance with darkness stopped. Today, I use that part of my testimony to exhort people not to waste the years like I did. What's sad is that far too many go down the opposite road. They decide the parties and the sin are more fun than walking with the Lord and they just abandon Him all together. Imagine... giving up true life for sure death. Oh how the darkness fools us. It makes me certain of two things: First, the pursuits of this world will seem absolutely insane once those who follow Christ see them from the Light of heaven. And second, the absolute same thing will be true for those who view them from the darkness of hell.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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For Sure?

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 11:00:03 GMT

Are you really saved? I believe the Scriptures support the doctrine of eternal security. That is: Once a person is "saved," they are saved forever. The problem rises when we (sinful humans) are lulled into believing someone is "saved" because of a heartfelt profession of faith in Christ alone. Believe it or not, such a prayer does not save anyone. There is no forgiveness of sins without repentance. True repentance is a "turning from your ways" based on an understanding that God alone is the offended party. That belief, if genuine, will lead to a complete change in the person's thoughts and actions. There will be good works and much spiritual "fruit" in the person's life for God and everyone else to see. Many who confess and accept Jesus as Lord are only confessing that they feel bad for their transgressions, or that they feel bad because people were hurt because of their actions. Once the bad feeling subsides, the sin comes back again. Check this quote from a world famous Christian book, Pilgrim's Progress:

“... the bottom of it all is their lack of change in their mind and will. Therefore, they're simply like the felon who stands before the judge; he shakes and trembles and seems to repent most seriously, but the bottom of it all is the fear of the hangman's rope, not that he has any loathing for the crime." Chapter 19, P198

Remember that "fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom," (Prov 9:10) and because there was no fear of that type in the felon, there was no true conviction of sin, and therefore no repentance.

Twice the Bible mentions a dog throwing up and then later returning to eat his vomit. Once what made the dog feel bad has ceased, he goes back to the same meal that made him ill. God is not concerned about dogs; He is concerned about people, many who are caught in Satan's web, believing they're eternally secure are not.

“But unless you repent, you too will all perish." Jesus of Nazareth (Luke 13:5b)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Only Him?

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:00:04 GMT

I was watching an advertisement about how American Muslim's are just normal everyday Americans. With that statement I am absolutely in agreement. America is a melting-pot of many different peoples and even many different religions. I don't believe "hate" is a family value, and I don't believe we are called to shove the Christian faith on anyone. Still, Christians must break away from other religions when they try to assert that their god is the same God we serve. They (and I mean all of "they") are incorrect. Allah, Buddha, or any other god is not the same as our God. Our God clearly asserts that Jesus is His Only Son, and that Jesus is the Christ--mankind's only hope for salvation. We believe that Jesus IS GOD! If your god asserts anything different, then let's see the proof that your god is anything other than an invention of misled men or of demons. Jesus is risen from the grave, and the proof is everywhere for anyone who'll care to seek Him.

"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Bowling Words!

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:00:06 GMT

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:42:07 GMT

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,

for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”

(Matthew 7:12) (NIV)

Dear Friends,

We had a sad situation come up at our counseling offices this week. One young teen left a note where others would certainly find it. When it was found by another teen, he left a very troubling response. I can’t really quote the first note because of the profanity it contained, but essentially it communicated the person “hated life and hated everyone in her life” and there were some troubling images as well. The second teen can be quoted with some edits, although it’s not pretty: “Nobody gives a f—k you should kill yourself retard b—tch”.

Although we are trying to figure it out, we still can’t determine who left the notes. What I CAN tell you is that I’ve been pondering the whole thing for days. Clearly the first note was a cry for help. The second may be a similar cry, although this could be nuanced. Why does anyone bully anyone else? Is it insecurity? Low self esteem? Were they looking for attention? Is this a case of “hurt people hurting other people?” as a learned behavior being acted out? In any case, what I can certainly say is there is a HUGE lack of empathy for others. Sure, a teen may not understand fully how their words or actions may hurt others or maybe their lack of empathy for themselves make it easier for them to target others. Generally though, I find it’s most likely due to family problems, trauma or mental health struggles and this is an unhealthy way to attempt to cope with it. At any rate, it’s a long way from our Lord’s command to “Love one another,” and I guess that part makes me kind of sad. And so our work continues… It’s hard to love other people if you first don’t acknowledge and “love the Lord your God”. It’s out of that love that all other love flows.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Surprised?

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:32:32 GMT

Remember the former things, those of long ago;
I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me.
¹⁰ I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
Isaiah 46:9-10

Friends,

I just got off the phone with the most infuriating company. I needed some basic answers, and their only response was I would receive an email when I received it. Seriously. I could feel my face heat up, my eyes began to tear up, and I could feel tension building throughout my body. In a blink though, I remembered God is not surprised by this! Is it a pain? Yes. Is it something that feels like it could be avoided? Yes. Will it get resolved? Yes.

Then I had another thought. God was not surprised by my situation, but I wonder if He was “surprised” by how long it took me to remember He is in control. Because you know what? Everything I am working on daily does not surprise Him…ever.

God is not surprised by…

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:00:01 GMT

Is God present in your church? I know it sounds crazy, but God is not involved in every congregation. Just because something bears a resemblance to a place of worship, does not mean that God is being worshiped there. Here are a few quick questions to ask yourself about the congregation you fellowship with.

When God is absent from church:

1. People are under the bondage of sin.

2. Man is being glorified.

3. Nobody really changes.

When God is present in a church:

1. There is freedom from bondage.

2. Jesus gets all the attention and the credit.

3. The people begin to look more like Him.

"May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones." 1 Thessalonians 3:13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Prove It?

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:00:08 GMT

I've spent some time in the Scriptures each and every day for many years. I've found that nothing else quite comes close to bringing me into a oneness with the Lord and also with the prophets and men and women of God who came before me. If you've received my e-devotionals for long, you'll know that I highly recommend everyone spend a portion of the day studying God's Word. Generally I advocate it because I know that God will use His Word to change hearts. But there's another reason. Many people who've walked with the Lord for a few years can lose interest in the Bible. Then a "Hey, I've read it all before," attitude sometimes prevails. But "reading" the Word is not the point. It's studying and meditating on the Word that we need. Getting to know Christ through God's written revelation to us can not only help us, but it can help others too. Ask yourself, "Am I well-versed enough in the Scriptures to lead someone else to Christ or to provide anyone solid Biblical advice?" If yes, then keep up the good work. If not, there's no time like today to get started!

"On arriving, he [Apollos] was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ." Acts 18:27b-28

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Big Boy!

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 10:00:01 GMT

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 18:48:16 GMT

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

(2 Timothy 3:16-17) (NIV)

Dear Friends,

At my age, lots of things annoy me, but not many things surprise me! There are, however, a few that still find me surprised. At the top of this list is probably biblical illiteracy. Not biblical illiteracy of the world in general, non-believers, lay people in the church, new believers and maybe those who are new to the scriptures. I’m talking about real biblical illiteracy in the hearts and minds of those who claim to be “clergy” and long-time believers who say they are among the among faithful. A great, but also horrible example of this is often found with politicians. Sure, they’ll have a “D” or an “R” behind their names which points to their political party. Both sides of those isles, and also the “independents,” all have their issues, but when they start talking about what God thinks and what God wants is when I can’t help but lay on it on the scale of what we KNOW God thinks, wants and says in the Holy Scriptures. In the last week alone I’ve heard our President, an ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives, and a Vice President who wants to be President all claim that God is not only fine with aborting children, but in some cases He’s all for it! Then, to make things worse, the media will find some “pastor” or “bishop” who will say “amen” to the nonsense. I do love it when the Lord urges a genuine God-fearing man/woman to bear true witness in the face of these lies.

“One does not have to abandon their faith or deeply held beliefs to agree: The government, and certainly Donald Trump, should not be telling a woman what to do with her body.” Kamala Harris

“Dear VP Harris: I hear you make this statement all the time. Exactly what “faith” are you talking about when you say you don’t have to abandon it to support abortion? Are you talking about the Christian faith that says all babies are made in the image of God (Gen 1:26, that God places them in the womb (Jer 1:5) and that we should not take any life unjustly (Luke 18:20)?...” Tony Dungee

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

What a Gift!

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 18:45:58 GMT

For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? (Luke 14:28, ESV)

Friends,

It has been an interesting month. Harvest was given an opportunity to share our ministry with a local group of charitable donors. Three organizations present and one is chosen to win roughly $10,000. Part of the presentation includes what we would specifically do with the funding if we were awarded the grant.

This of course sent me on a mission: Find specific things with actual price tags that we would purchase with this money. I thought of three and, quickly, since I only had a couple days to prepare, sent out emails to get quotes. I spoke with roughly five companies about a variety of things, all with the understanding we could only purchase if awarded this grant. When we did not win it, I had to send a “thank you for your time, but we cannot move forward at this point” email.

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 10:00:03 GMT

Someone once said, the problem with living sacrifices is they keep crawling off the alter! We know we're called to offer our lives to Christ--to live for Him and not for ourselves. But the enemy keeps urging us to go and pick up all the garbage we left at the Cross of Christ and carry it around a while longer. He reminds us of our sinfulness, and our own sinful natures kick in, too. We remember sin as something we enjoyed, forgetting how much has been done to save us from ourselves. So many once strong Christians are now walking around in sun, totally worthless to the Lord. They should have heeded Paul's advice to the Colossians.

"Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming." Colossians 3:5

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Thy Word?

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:00:02 GMT

When I was young, the word "bad" meant terrible. Now I understand it can also mean "good," but sometimes it still means bad! Even working with teens on a daily basis can't keep me up to date. Often, my teenage daughter and son will have to explain things to me. Words simply take on new meaning within minutes. Now imagine generations go by and words change, only much more dramatically. Not only that, but times change and relationships between words and activities are different. I've read several books that were written just 10 years ago that have had to be re-written and updated to make sense to a modern reader. Fortunately for us, the God who spoke the Bible into existence knew everything about us, and so not even one word of it has become any less valid or any less relevant than the day He spoke it. In it's most basic essence, that's what this "Thought4Today" ministry is all about. Bringing consumable pieces of God's unchanging Word into the lives of people each day, and proving it's relevance to the people He wrote it for!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Fighting?

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 10:00:02 GMT

It frequently seems to be something churchgoers either learn to endure from a distance, or get involved in themselves. There hardly seems to be a congregation where church politics or other issues aren't causing somebody to argue with somebody else. I've certainly been involved in this type of garbage, and hopefully I've only thrown my two-cents in when it's been necessary for Biblical reasons. By in large, however, fighting only hurts those involved, and innocent bystanders, too. Whether it's your youth group, or the larger church, do everything you can to keep the bond of peace. Here's some great advice from the Apostle Paul to a very young pastor. We could all use the same advice now and again.

"Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful." 2 Timothy 2:22-24

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Fri, 06 Sep 2024 17:58:29 GMT

A lot of Christians I meet have a misconception about the way God's Spirit works in believers. They believe that somehow they've missed the Holy Spirit because they still think bad thoughts, and wind up doing things they shouldn't be doing. Then they feel unworthy, and move away from their faith little by little. The truth is that we are ALL unworthy, no matter how "good" we are. It's also true that walking closely with the Lord is a choice, not some type of magic! If your mind is still up to no good, then it's because you let it run wild. A close walk with the Lord begins with training your mind; focusing on what is good instead of what is evil (like prayer, the Bible, etc). Also, instead of saying to yourself, "stop thinking this or that," just begin meditating on something positive (like a favorite Scripture, or walking and talking with Jesus). You'll find that once you've got your head under control, your body will follow!

Here's a three step process I got from a good friend of mine. 1. Be Mental (get your thoughts under control). 2. Be Intentional (it's not magic... you've got to focus on the positive). 3. Be Habitual (Get into the Word, and do it all the time!).

1. Be Mental

2. Be Intentional

3. Be Habitual

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Word Got Out!

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 17:29:53 GMT

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5, NIV)

Friends,

A few months ago I shared about a couple of Harvest Helps requests we received from women in a local shelter. I shared my fear if “word got out” we would be flooded with requests for help and I wasn’t sure how it would go. Well, word got out. Flooded would be an exaggeration, but I currently recently had six open requests I was working on. They are messages from families looking for help with rent, groceries, clothing, bills, and more.

If I am being transparent, my first instinct is to worry because I want to meet all the needs and keep everyone taken care of. BUT, I realized I should probably start with prayer. I sat down at my desk, went through the list of names, and prayed for them and their families. I also asked God for wisdom as I began to send messages and make phone calls.

When we started Harvest Helps, I was convinced this would be pretty easy work and the system we had in place would make sure people were helped quickly and without having too many hoops to jump through. More and more, I am beginning to understand the hoops other organizations use to handle each request and case.

Now that I’ve confessed my shortcomings and fears, I’d love to ask for your prayers. Pray for wisdom as we figure out how to do this well. This is a new program and the hiccups are still there, but this is NOT something to be taken lightly. God has proven Himself gracious both in giving wisdom and meeting needs and I am excited to continue in this work!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Funeral Hope?

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Modern Slavery?

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:00:25 GMT

Believe it or not, there are still plenty of slaves in the world. I've read extensively about many countries in the world where one person enslaves another. In Biblical times, people who got themselves into debt often enslaved themselves to their debtors in order to work off their debts. It's probably no accident that several of the Apostles (Peter, James, John, and Jude) called themselves slaves. In fact, they had readily given lordship of their lives over to Jesus, by way of accepting His Holy Spirit. Christianity is often mistaken by many as a religion for wimps and people who cannot handle life. To those people I would say only that if they think giving their life completely to someone else is easy, maybe they should try it! Call it modern slavery if you like, but being a slave for Christ is all I ever want to be!

“

But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life." Romans 6:22

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Babylon?

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:00:22 GMT

Before Babylon fell it had a serious problem. Instead of serving God, the people had turned to idols. They were caught up in every kind of sin--from the smallest to the greatest, they did them all. Many prophets of the Lord spoke to them, but they refused to listen. It was as if they didn't really believe there was a God. They mocked anyone who spoke anything of God and they even put them to death. Rather than turning toward God, they continued to turn away from Him. Instead, they thought it wise to seek astrologers and the like--putting their faith in demons and in money. God had much to say to them... and I believe He is saying the same to us today. We are in fact no different than they were. We might even be worse.

"Keep on, then, with your magic spells and with your many sorceries, which you have labored at since childhood. Perhaps you will succeed, perhaps you will cause terror. All the counsel you have received has only worn you out! Let your astrologers come forward, those stargazers who make predictions month by month, let them save you from what is coming upon you." Isaiah 47:12-13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Judgement!

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 10:00:13 GMT

Since man first took to sinning, we've been great at finger pointing. It's as if we think pointing the finger at others will cause the eye of justice to gaze elsewhere. As a Christian, I know I'm not to judge my brother, but the sinful part of me still wants to look at my own sins on a sliding scale. If someone else is sinning too, my flesh wants to believe that must ease the depravity of my sins. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Fortunately, for true justice, God's eye is not fooled by the antics of man. One day a group of religious leaders that felt attacked by Jesus' righteousness went and caught a woman committing adultery. While it's also interesting that they only chose to bring the woman, Jesus immediately saw through their schemes. They weren't questioning Jesus because they believed He was the Son of God. They were trying to trap Him--wanting to judge him guilty of injustice. In the end, they were the ones left judged fairly.

"They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, 'If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.'" John 8:6-7

While it's not a sin to lovingly point out a brother or sister's sins in an attempt to bring them back into the fullness of God's grace, it is never to be done without first looking at ourselves and our motives.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Bring 'Em All!

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00:01 GMT

Did you ever think about this? You can share God with as many people as humanly possible and there would still not be any less of Him. He'd still have just as much time to spend with you and just as much love to go around. It's kind of like that old Doritos commercial, "Eat all you want... we'll make more!" Don't be like some of the religious folks of Jesus' day. They were angry that Jesus was inviting others to come and spend eternity with Him. As with most parties, heaven definitely bears the inscription, "The more, the merrier!"

"You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:26

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Are You Listening, Lord?

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 10:00:11 GMT

Do you ever get the feeling God isn't listening to your prayers? Do you often wonder if you've done something bad enough the Lord no longer favors your requests? Have you considered, even momentarily, that God will not come through for you in time? If you answer yes to even one of these questions, then the good news is you're human. Even people of strong faith (some who walked with Christ on this Earth) lacked faith from time-to-time. When Jesus' friend Lazarus was ill, He was detained for days in his attempt to go to Lazarus. Before He got there, Lazarus died. In the end, however, and even in your own prayer life, the better news is that God's timing is perfect. What's more, His love is sure regardless of what may be going through your head, or your life. For those who pray in the name of Jesus Christ, God not only hears you, but will always act in your ultimate best interest--no matter how things seem. Sure, clean up your thought life or the things you're up to He would not approve of and your walk with Him will grow stronger... But, don't ever start to doubt his love, no matter how grim the circumstances.

"Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. "But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask." Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." John 11:21-22

Pastor Jim Kilby

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A Good Man?

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 10:00:06 GMT

Was Jesus a good man? Many in the world today, including those of other than the Christian faith, would say, "yes" to that question. In fact, Jesus was a good man. But that's not why the religious leaders of His day wanted Him killed. They wanted Him killed because He performed miracles they believed were powered by the devil, and because He had the audacity to face them and tell them the truth. They were members of a lost race, and He was the long awaited cure! In a word, they wanted Him dead because He claimed to be God in the flesh!

"The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for false evidence against Jesus so they could have him put to death. But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward... The high priest said to him, 'I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.' 'Yes, it is as you say,' Jesus replied." Matthew 26:59-60a and 63b-64a

Now the big question comes to you. Was Jesus God in the flesh? If not, then neither was He a good man! As many have put it before me... He was either Lord, a liar, or a lunatic! No other option remains.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Hopeless!

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:00:11 GMT

Through the years since the apostles each left to be with our Lord, we've had many changes in the church of Jesus Christ. Some were for the better, but just as certainly, some of the migrations our theology has taken are troubling. The one I've been pondering for the last few days is what a seminary professor would call the "total depravity of man." Basically, it's the understanding that man without God is an utterly hopeless soul. I use the word soul, because for generations some pastors and teachers have failed to teach our "souls" are also sinful. Maybe it doesn't seem like a big deal, but it is. We hear plenty about the evil "flesh," but what about the rest of us? For many, this errant belief has given rise to the thought that if it wasn't for our "fleshly desires", we would be OK before God. If that were true, then everybody would immediately be reconciled to God the moment their body died. This is not true. The truth is every part of us is sinful. Whether you define a "person" as body, soul and spirit, or some other way--all of the parts are singularly and completely hopeless without the Blood of Christ.

"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." Matthew 10:28

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Heavenly Rewards

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 00:38:53 GMT

"Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can only do what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does." (John 5:19b, NIV)

Dear Friends,

When I was first called into ministry, I didn’t even know what that was or what it meant to me. All I knew was I had a burning in my heart for people who did not have a personal relationship with Jesus. All I could think about was how horrible it must be to live without His direction in my life and how it must grieve the Holy Spirit when someone passes away without accepting the gift of salvation found only in Christ. As leaders in the church saw God’s calling on my life, one of them suggested I read Oz Guinness’ “The Call”. That book took a spiritual feeling I had and explained it in layman’s terms. I then realized my life now had a real purpose! Little ole’ me could live a life focused on the things God focuses on, and for me that specifically meant I would be helping Him reconcile lost souls to the Kingdom. I now had a mission!

Nearly thirty years later, I’m still moved by the realization the Day of the Lord is closer than it’s ever been. Current events continuously point to the end of Satan’s reign in this world and to the Second Coming of Christ. But until that day comes, we are all called to be in the business of reconciling the world to Christ. Not all of us do it as evangelists, but all of us are called to be a part of the process in whatever way He leads. God is ALWAYS in the redemption business, and those who walk closely with Him will be in that business as well! Maybe it’s by serving in the Church. Maybe it’s by what many of you do by helping fund ministries such as this. Or maybe it’s by laboring in prayer for the lost or the ministers to the lost. In whatever way it is, I pray you continue to be attentive to the Word of the Lord and the urging of the Holy Spirit. Being at work WITH Jesus is a work with truly heavenly rewards! May God bless you for the part you play.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Perspective

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 00:36:11 GMT

When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the labor that is done on earth -people getting no sleep day or night – (17)then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all their efforts to search it out, no one can discover its meaning. Even if the wise claim they know, they cannot really comprehend it. (Ecclesiastes 8:16-17)

Friends,

Let it be known, this is the summer Ecclesiastes broke my brain. This book of the Bible is filled with meandering paths of wisdom, logic, and exploration and more often than not, I have been finding myself scratching my head and thinking perhaps I missed a sign post. I have been practicing tools like cross references, multiple translations, paraphrasing, and word studies but I think my biggest help is a weekly meeting with 150 other women to talk about our study and hear a teaching on the portion we focused on each week.

I am just reminded how God has wired all our brains differently. I know the women teaching have put in a LOT of study time and I know they do not take this job of teaching lightly. The rest of us sitting in the audience benefit from their wisdom and the way their brains are wired to teach. (Ok, I like to teach too…but not Ecclesiastes!) I get to lead a small group and I love how each of these women is wired differently. They bring different insights and questions to the conversation and it has been such a blessing to wrestle through these ideas and dig down to truth.

Often, my job is to do the same thing. From a different perspective, I can help them figure out where the path even is and dig down to the truth of what needs to happen next. Sometimes we get to dream big dreams, sometimes we figure out how to put food on the table for a week – both are valuable. But, just like God is teaching me I don’t have to understand all of Ecclesiastes in one sitting, I get to spend time talking with these women, figuring out next steps. Thank God we are not all looking at the problem the same way! What a beautiful thing when we all bring our own skill sets to the table!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

One Solitary Life!

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 10:00:01 GMT

A few years ago a friend of mine was giving an old Bible away when I recognized it as a version I didn't have. When I asked him if I could have it, he was happy to oblige. Months later I was flipping through the Bible he'd given me and found a postcard with the following words written on it. There is no copyright information or byline included, but I think you'll find they are inspired.

He was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman.

He grew up in still another village where he worked in a carpenter shop until he was thirty.

Then for three years he was an itinerant preacher.

He never wrote a book.

He never held an office.

He never had a family or owned a house.

He didn't go to college.

He never visited a big city.

He never traveled two hundred miles from the place where he was born.

He did none of the things one usually associates with greatness.

He had no credentials but himself.

He was only thirty-three when the tide of public opinion turned against him.

His friends ran away.

He was turned over to his enemies and went through the mockery of a trial.

He was nailed to a cross between two thieves.

While he was dying, his executioners gambled for his clothing, the only property he had on earth.

Rationalization?

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:00:19 GMT

If you really want to do something that's, shall we say, "a little sketchy," do you find that your mind finds all sorts of reasons and excuses why you should be allowed to do it? Once you've done something wrong, then does your mind find ways to make you innocent because of either circumstances or loopholes? Don't think you're alone because each and every man, woman and child alive develops a vast array of defense mechanisms and rationalizations that if go unchecked; can come up with an excuse for anything--and I mean anything! Murder? No problem if you let your reasoning run on autopilot long enough? So when does it stop? How does it stop? For a Christian the answer is fairly simple. As we allow the Spirit of God to work in us (through the Word, prayer, and other believers, etc.) we become convicted and convinced that we need to put a check on our motives. As our growing process continues, God can strip away virtually all of our ungodly ways--but only if we let go and let Him work. The next time you see your mind working overtime looking for a loophole to allow you to sin, begin to pray and I think your "ok" to sin, and possibly even your desire to sin will be stripped away!

"All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD." Proverbs 16:2

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Today?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:00:12 GMT

With the exception Christ followers, not many seem too concerned about Jesus, His teachings, or the things He told us would come to pass at the end of this age. In fact, those non Christians who care about Jesus in the least are mostly antagonistic toward Him. They're either making fun of Christians or Christ Himself, while they live their lives as if He never existed. It's an interesting time to be alive, because those who are Spiritually sensitive, as well as those who study the Scriptures and watch the times, will each tell you the time is short. Not one single prophecy remains to be fulfilled before the Lord raptures the church from the world. And how will it be on that day? Jesus told us about that day, too! It will be a day that sounds a lot like... well, a lot like today!

"Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all. It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But he day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed." Luke 17:26-30

Pastor Jim Kilby

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That's Impossible!

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 10:00:12 GMT

Can God do anything? Many will tell you He can, but they would be wrong. God's power is limitless, but His nature limits His ability to do many things. For example, God cannot be unjust. He cannot sin. He cannot go against His own Word... and unlike sinful humans, He cannot lie. In a world where just about everything is up for sale, including truth, God remains absolutely perfect, and absolutely unchangeable. Just like the "foundation" He often describes Himself as, I find great comfort in knowing that He's Rock Solid!

"... it is impossible for God to lie..." Hebrews 6:18

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Blush?

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:12 GMT

It seems like nobody's embarrassed anymore. Just yesterday I saw one of those "vanity plates" indicating the car's owner was quite happy with the sinful way he was living his life. Always pushing the edge, Hollywood stars seem to take every opportunity to brag about their decadent and promiscuous lifestyles. Television shows like Jerry Springer and the countless others are being aimed squarely at today's youth culture. Is it any wonder hordes of school-aged youth join the chorus of voices bragging about their sexual exploits, their distaste for their parents, and their outright rage against God? Nobody seems to be ashamed to say anything anymore. What once wouldn't have only been mentioned in the darkest fringes of society is now proclaimed with great pride. It's almost as if blushing has died.

"'Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. So they will fall among the fallen; they will be brought down when I punish them,' says the LORD." Jeremiah 6:15

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Stop It!

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:00:13 GMT

Just today I noticed two little words in one of Jesus' commands that I'd previously missed. They were the simple, yet powerful words "do not." Generally when I read something so simple, I take it for what it is. Maybe it's the state of the world today or the condition of my heart, but for years I've been reading "do not" in this command, as "it wouldn't be a good idea," or "be careful about this area of life." Oh... what was the command?

They do nothing wrong;

they walk in his ways.

You have laid down precepts

that are to be fully obeyed.

Oh, that my ways were steadfast

in obeying your decrees!

Then I would not be put to shame

when I consider all your commands.

I will praise you with an upright heart

as I learn your righteous laws.

I will obey your decrees;

do not utterly forsake me. Psalm 119:1-8

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Back From The Dead?

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 10:00:14 GMT

I've had the displeasure of spending time with teens who've become captivated by some of the more popular TV shows out today. Although there's plenty of stuff I wouldn't recommend, shows that tout the ability to communicate with the dead, to perform miraculous signs, and to tell people's fortunes are probably the most dangerous shows out today. What distresses me is that teens are really getting caught up in this stuff. They've even gotten their parents involved in arguing with me about it, "How can it be bad if good comes from it?" they'll ask. Name one wicked person from this world's history books who didn't fake good to do evil! But even that isn't the problem. The problem is that it's looking to demons and witchcraft instead of looking to and trusting the Lord. That's breaking the greatest of all the commandments--"Have no other God's before me." God doesn't take kindly to it either.

"When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word [God's Word], they have no light of dawn... and they will be thrust into utter darkness." Isaiah 8:19-20, 22b

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Wounded?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 10:00:13 GMT

"Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." Proverbs 27:5-6

Not long ago, I had the opportunity to be set straight by a gentleman in my church. While I cannot describe it as a pleasant experience, I immediately had two thoughts enter my mind. The first, I need to pay attention to what my friend is saying--he is someone I respect who sounds like he's speaking the truth. Second, I love my friend even more for caring enough to be honest with me. Honesty is rarely telling someone the most popular thing, but more likely the most painful thing. It's difficult to be that transparent with folks, but that is exactly what Christians are to do. Lovingly, humbly, prayerfully, and methodically helping those who are veering off track. Believe it or not, to do anything less is a sin. You may find an occasion where the Lord may use you to do something similar to a brother or sister. Consider it an honor to be used, even if you face persecution for it. More possibly, you may be the recipient as I have been on more than one occasion. Watch carefully how you respond to anyone--the Lord may be speaking through them.

"He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue." Proverbs 28:23

Pastor Jim Kilby

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You've Grown!

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 10:00:11 GMT

You've grown! Really! Just as sure as you are one day older today than you were yesterday, you've also grown in the Lord. Remember when you didn't know anything about His love? Remember when you couldn't have helped anyone with anything Spiritual? It may still be fairly basic, but now you can. Maybe you're not ready for prime-time, but you've learned more than you probably realize. You've got your own testimony of what He did for you--and that alone is powerful. Remember how hurt and depressed you'd get when someone said something about you? Now you may be hurt, but you're not destroyed. You've learned that carrying the cross of Christ is difficult, and that you'll be even stronger tomorrow for your efforts in carrying it today. Praise God that He loves us enough not to leave us as we were. Praise God that He forgets our ignorance and sees us as the finished product we will one day become!

"Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Ephesians 4:14-16

Pastor Jim Kilby

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The Low Point

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 17:18:06 GMT

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV)

Friends,

So often, the people who reach out to Harvest for help are in very low, lows in their lives. Whether facing homelessness, food shortages, utilities being turned off, or whatever it may be, they usually reach out when the situation is bleak. I have gone through phases in my life when things were tough, and I find those seasons are often when I call out to God the most. While I’m often asking for answers, reassuring myself of His goodness, and reminding myself He has not yet failed me, I also often wonder what in the world it would look like if I didn’t have faith and reassurance.

My goal, when people reach out for help, is to help them whenever possible SO I have the opportunity to tell them they are seen, they are loved, and God has not forgotten them. I am always hopeful that perhaps this interaction will add on to what they know or have been told about a good God who sees them, and perhaps will lead them to call out to God themselves.

I am grateful for the opportunity RECENLTY (I have not already shared these) to tell a woman who is coming out of homelessness, to tell a family who needed food after being out of work for health reasons, and to tell someone who needs food because of a job situation that God loves them and sees them! Our God is good. Let us sing it from the rooftops!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Ripple Effect

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 17:15:56 GMT

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)

Dear Friends,

Through the years since we began this out reach in 1997, we've been able to impact the lives of thousands of teenagers. What's interesting to me is the contact we still have with many of them. Quite a few are now married with their own families. Just last week, a young man called and asked if we could have lunch. I know him from the earliest days of the Cellar teen center, back when it was operating in an old parsonage! Since he moved to North Carolina many years ago, we always meet up at Skyline when he's visiting his parents in Ohio. As he walked in with his wife and two children, I was please down deep in my soul. What a blessing it's been to serve this young man who is now in his early forties. I was able to lead him to the Lord when was in high school and then baptize him at what was then Far Hills Church. Later, when he met the young woman who would become his wife, he called and asked if I'd join him as he laid out the Gospel for her. Raised Jewish, her entire family watched as I baptized her in the waters off Myrtle Beach on the same day I performed their wedding ceremony. This week, they told me they had moved and wanted my help in deciphering the theology and doctrine of local churches they're now hoping to visit. I think they also wanted to watch my face as their young son prayed over our meal! I didn't cry at that moment, but now I'm tearing up just thinking about it.

That's just one of the many, many relationships we continue to have, even as we work with new people the Lord brings into our lives. As I think about it and how much i pleases me when one of them asks for advice, or help, or just to get together and talk, I think it must feel something similar for our Lord when we do the same to Him. Many thanks to YOU for the part you play is making this all possible!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Anemic?

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 10:00:17 GMT

Do you ever get a chance to just get away by yourself? The longer I live, the harder I find it to get away from the business of life. I make concerted efforts to do nothing, and still I get caught up in something that keeps me from relaxing. Teenagers today even have it worse than I did when I was young--there are so many things to do I honestly don't know how they keep from going insane. The sharpest people always find time to rejuvenate, and often that means spending time alone with God. As busy as Jesus was, he always found an occasion to slip away from everyone else and spend time with His Father. I figure if the Son of God needed time to rest and pray, I definitely need it!

"One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God." Luke 6:12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Rejuvenate?

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 10:00:13 GMT

"One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God." Luke 6:12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Mediator?

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 10:00:13 GMT

When I was a young teen I borrowed my mother's car one day, only to wreck it minutes later. The accident wasn't my fault, but her car was just as totaled no matter whose fault it was. When the police showed up, I asked the officer to do me a favor. I begged him to come to my house with me and tell my mom that the wreck was the fault of the other person. No doubt seeing the fear in my face, he agreed to take me home. He even went to the door and talked to my mom while I waited in his car. Man, was I glad he was there to mediate.

As a sinner, I'm even happier to have a mediator with the only thing I know that's more scary than my mom--Almighty God! Facing Him with any mediator other than Christ would be eternally stupid!

"For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men--the testimony given in its proper time." 1 Timothy 2:5-6

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Look At Me!

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 10:00:15 GMT

Any person who truly starts their walk as a Christian has the best intentions to finish strong. That being the case, why do so many of us wind up crashing on the rocks of life? Although there are probably a million things that can lead to pride, I believe pride is probably the #1 problem when you boil it all down. We start out strong, but we forget where our power really comes from. Before long we're thinking that it's US who are in charge of our destinies. Even the accomplishments the Lord helps us to achieve become stumbling stones for many as they fail to give Him the credit for His work. A loving God simply will not let one of His Children rest when they've gone that far astray. Trouble will be on the horizon soon! I believe the answer is never to think too highly of ourselves. Of course, that can most effectively be done when we look at ourselves in the Light of Christ. Let's face it, even the best of us looks terrible when matched against perfection.

"You may say to yourself, 'My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.' but remember the Lord your god, for it is he who give you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today." Deuteronomy 8:17-18

Pastor Jim Kilby

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All Dressed Up!

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 10:00:14 GMT

"All dressed up and no where to go!"

I've heard that saying a few hundred times, and I'm not even sure what it means. As I was reading through the Scriptures today it crossed my mind when I read Jesus' words to the religious aristocracy of His day. He was quite concerned about their "robes" and "royalty" approach to their duties. Sure, they looked good and everyone thought they were religious... still, Jesus had some stern words to say about the condition of their hearts:

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:00:14 GMT

Who's really in control of your life? The sign outside a church near my home recently read, "To see your prayers come true, you've got to get off your knees!" While I can certainly agree with the need for us all to roll up our sleeves and get busy in life, I must admit I thought the church got it's message turned-around. Not many people have a problem with trying to advance their own agenda in life. Some strive to that end to the detriment of friends, family and even their own personal health. While I could imagine a motivational speaker, a politician and maybe even a teacher or professor making such a statement, I thought it ironic that a church was making it. Aren't we, the Body of Christ, supposed to be pointing people to His hand for help? Aren't we supposed to be a clear and present reminder that prayer not only works, but it's an imperative? Although it's highly unlikely any of my readers have ever been a slave or a hand maiden, I love the analogy of someone depending on their "master" for even the most basic sustenance. This Scripture paints the picture perfectly...

"I life up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hands of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy." Psalm 123:1-2

So, to whom do you look for help? And not just in times of trouble... for your every need and desire. If it's not the Lord, it should be.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Occupied!

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:00:18 GMT

I've heard is said that a person can tell what they really love by taking an inventory of what they think about the most. What is it that occupies your mental abilities? Is it work? Sex? Money? Self? To be honest, most people would probably pick anything but God. What's unfortunate is that most of those same people would go on record saying they "love" God. If that were the truth, they wouldn't have enough brain power left to get sucked into Satan's traps.

"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:1-2

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Idle Words?

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 10:00:13 GMT

The Scriptures tell us there will be a great famine in the last days, but not a famine for food, rather a lack of God's Word (Amos 8:11). I believe those days are coming, and in fact may already be here. The vast majority of the world could care less about the Holy Scriptures, and many of those who do consider them worthy to even be read do not believe they are God's word. Whole Christian denominations believe the great revelations of the Old Testament to only be allegories and stories to be applied to life if possible, but do not document actual events. From our records of Jesus' sermons, He quoted the Old Testament almost every time He spoke--that in itself testifies to the validity of those Scriptures being from the Almighty. The New Testament Scriptures were also God-breathed--and as originally given to man, are perfect in every way. As I've studied the Bible through the years I've learned one thing for certain. Without the Scriptures, I'd be a mere speck of the man He's helped me become through them. They have become my most precious treasure.

"They are not just idle words for you--they are your life." Deuteronomy 32:47a

Pastor Jim Kilby

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But I...

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:00:18 GMT

Hey, did you find time to read your Bible and spend time with the Lord today?

"Well, I woke up late and I couldn't... my boss is a real jerk if I show up late."

"I tried, but I couldn't find my Bible... I looked everywhere. I finally found it under my new clothes, but then I was late for my basketball game."

"I was going to get to it, but I had to wash my new car before my big date tonight."

"I was..."

"Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her." Proverbs 8:10-11

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Celebration?

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 10:00:13 GMT

There used to be a word widely applied to Christians who weren't walking closely with the Lord any longer. "Backsliding" as it was termed, is as common today as ever, even if we rarely describe it that way. If Satan is unsuccessful at keeping someone's soul from being redeemed by the blood of Christ, he then goes directly to "Plan B." This plan requires that demons of all sorts try to get the new Christian off track with money, or sex, or just about anything that will distract them and keep them from growing and becoming a strong Christ follower. When they succeed, and they succeed a lot, they'll keep the new Christian from sharing their faith with others, thereby ending what could have been a pyramid of thousands of souls saved. King Saul was a backsliden man of God. As a result, his kingdom was stripped away and he and his sons were killed. The enemies of Israel celebrated the once great man's fall with pagan revelry. Similarly, when a backsliden Christian falls into sin, Satan and his demons revel in it and celebrate the fall to their idols.

"The next day when the Philistines came to strip the dead, they found Saul and his three sons fallen on Mount Gilboa. They cut off his head and stripped off his armor, and they sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines to proclaim the news in the temple of their idols and among their people. They put his armor in the temple of the Ashtoreths and fastened his body to the wall of Beth Shan." 1 Samuel 31:8-10

Pastor Jim Kilby

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People!

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 10:00:12 GMT

I've often said that the great thing about church is the people. Of course, I've also said that the difficult part about church is the people. People are a lot like children. They can be a blessing one moment and seem a lot like a curse in the next. So we build walls around us to protect ourselves from the pain of dealing with others. We want people to connect with our needs on an emotional level, but we're not always as interested in connecting with them. We're born selfish, and we'll die selfish if the Holy Spirit isn't allowed to do a major work in us. Is it any wonder our Lord Jesus was so interested in connecting with people on a personal level.. and is it any wonder He commanded us to do the same!

"...Love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 22:39)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Two Are Better Than One

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 17:43:30 GMT

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

Friends,

I have been doing quite a bit of googling lately about some health issues I have been experiencing. It’s rarely a good idea, but sometimes the right information will jump out and I’ll find something to help or an idea for moving forward. As I am dealing with all this, feeling somewhat stuck and rather frustrated, I started thinking about the people Harvest serves and how their situations must feel so similar.

I can google symptoms all day long and get a variety of opinions, but there are only so many realistic answers to “How am I going to feed my family this week?” or “What to do when you had a week off work because of illness and the bills were already overdue?”

I also have the luxury of leaning on my husband, parents, friends, and doctors as I search for answers…but so many of the people I talk to feel so very alone. There is often no one, no support system, in place for the people who reach out to Harvest, and they feel alone, isolated, and like there is nowhere to turn.

The goal of Harvest Helps, Harvest House, even the Thrift Store is to meet practical needs in our community and share with those people the love of the Lord. You feel alone? We’re here with you. You don’t think anyone cares? You are a dearly loved child of God! You aren’t sure how to move forward? Let’s plan some steps.

Mon, 27 May 2024 19:34:36 GMT

"He [King Uzziah] sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success." 2 Chronicles 26:5

Have you been walking with the Lord for a few years? Have you been mentored by others stronger in the faith? Have you attended countless worship services, Christian concerts and the like? If you have, you're not unlike many Christian teens (or even adults) who've had the opportunity to grow in their faith because of the sacrifice of others. From this point there are only two ways you can go. You can continue to grow in faith and knowledge of the Lord and spread that faith to others... OR, you can start to become arrogant, prideful and less interested in the Lord who once occupied all your thoughts and dreams. Like paddling up a river, there's no middle ground. Either you are actively moving forward, or you'll immediately start slipping backward. Far too many have fallen into the "complacency trap." The only hope is a continued daily vigilance toward growing in Christ.

"But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the Lord his God..." 2 Chronicles 26:16

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Tue, 14 May 2024 10:00:11 GMT

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Done!

Mon, 06 May 2024 10:00:17 GMT

Although some are sure to disagree with me, I wholeheartedly believe that struggling in life can be a good thing. A parent who gives his child everything and removes all the struggles will raise a child who is unprepared for the rigors of life. On the other hand, a person who is forced to struggle for everything can also lose focus and heart and give up. There is a happy medium in most everything. Struggling to grow in the faith Christ has given us, for example, is a great thing, but only when the purpose is to grow, and not to earn one's salvation. A Christian is "saved," meaning that portion of the equation is finished. Still, the struggle to become more like Christ will continue all the days of the believer's life. No matter what the task before us, the chances are we will struggle with some part of it while on this earth. Struggling to be a faithful Christian is no different. Fortunately, we have help... And fortunately, for those who've accepted Jesus as their Savior, the struggle to be right in God's eyes is over!

"Only let us live up to what we have already attained." Phillippians 3:16

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Contentment?

Fri, 03 May 2024 10:00:18 GMT

To be content with life, no matter the circumstances, would be heaven on earth for me. I've grown in this area for many years, but my high-strung Type A personality doesn't always lead to contentment. Instead, I'm always looking to move forward a little bit faster and do things a little bit better. When things don't go the way I had them planned in my head I can get irritated--and even angry. The answer, or should I say the secret, is in living your life completely trusting in Christ. I pray that the Lord is gracious enough to allow me to grow in my faith in this area. I only hope I don't get irritated with Him for taking longer than I'd like!

"I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12b-13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Perspective!

Thu, 02 May 2024 10:00:12 GMT

Have you ever noticed how some people will learn you are a Christian and will embrace you, while others will immediately scorn you? It's not about YOU as much as it is about Christ, but it can still be quite painful to make someone so uncomfortable with your faith that they hate you for it. I learned long ago that my witness is to be faithful no matter what the result. It is God who draws sinners to Himself, and sometimes He uses us to testify to them even though it may only be as a judgement day witness that they clearly heard the gospel and refused it.

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life." 1 Corinthians 2:14-16a

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Hang On!

Wed, 01 May 2024 10:00:12 GMT

I've had some tough things happen to me in the last few weeks. As I look back, I suppose any one of them could have made me lose heart, but God seems to know when and where you can deal with the inevitable trouble that will come. No doubt He's right there with me as I face trials, and for each and every Christian, the same promise holds true. Life is tough, and if it's not tough right now, it will be soon. That's one of the wages of sin. Fortunately for those who trust in Jesus, our days of trouble will be short lived, followed by all eternity with the lover of our souls!

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Pastor Jim Kilby

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In It Together!

beth@harvestyouth.org (Elizabeth Kilby) — Wed, 01 May 2024 00:52:02 GMT

So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.
1 Corinthians 3:7

Friends,

I wanted to share with you a message I received recently which made my heart happy. I share it because I want to remind you of someone this ministry helped financially three years ago, and who we have been able to stay in touch with, and continue walking alongside, since then. I may be the face of the ministry she interacts with, but all of you are the hands and feet and heart, so this message is for you too!

I realized something! As far as I have come you have been there every step of the way! And I really appreciate that truly! I just want to let you know that I love you very much and I will never forget what you did for me to get me to this point three years ago. 3 years ago today you helped me work up the strength to leave the situation I was in. You were willing to pay or help pay for an apartment that I never ended up getting and I just want to let you know that I will never forget the kindness that you showed me. I don't believe that I would be alive today had I not left and I just want you to know that I have not forgotten that. Sometimes you end up getting worked up in your life so much that you don't remember where you came from and I definitely remember. Thank you so very much Beth truly

She walked out of a scary, abusive situation and ended up moving in with a friend. She has been safe, fed, and clothed since then. She earned back custody rights for her children, has had employment, and has a completely new outlook on life. I am blessed to call her a friend!!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Father of Lies?

Wed, 01 May 2024 00:49:04 GMT

"When he (Satan) lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44b (NIV)

Dear Friends,

I got a call from a young woman last week who was wondering why a beautiful butterfly had landed on her arm for a brief moment the day before. She wanted to know if I’d help her figure out which of her late relatives had visited. She had earlier posted the same question on social media and a flurry of “keyboard spiritualists” had convinced her she’d been visited by her grandmother who recently passed. For better or worse, I can be pretty blunt when I’m speaking the Truth to lies. And so I said, “You were visited by a beautiful bug!”. We went on to discuss how Jesus made it clear no one can pass from this life and then come back (Luke 16:19-31) (with the obvious exceptions of when He was involved in bringing someone back from the dead). I don’t think she actually believed me, but that’s likely because lies like this are so ingrained in our culture. What’s more, lots of well-meaning and sympathetic people who want to comfort grieving hearts perpetuate these lies without realizing they actually come from anti-Christian “new age” religions. What’s probably the saddest thing, in my opinion, is that so many young people have been so insulated from actual Biblical truth for so long, when they see it, they either immediately discount it or refuse to even listen. But some might ask me, does it really matter if she believes her grandmother visited her in the form of a butterfly. Yes, it does. Because it’s a lie, and all lies come from a root of evil. And… because it works against the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He has been quite clear with us:

“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:27-28

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

"I'm 18!"

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:14 GMT

If there's one thing I really like about being "all grown up" it's my autonomy. Although I have many people in my life who I love and who I'm close with, it's been decades since any of them have had any real authority over me. That's the American way... isn't it? Once you're out on your own, you've got to answer to your boss, and that's about it! It's funny, the United States is one of the few countries in the world where such a thing is true? In many (if not most) countries in the world, families have much more involvement and control in each other's lives. And, while I do like being a "big boy" and calling most of my own shots, that's really not the best position for me to be in. Because I'm painfully aware of the fact that, left to my own devices, I can easily get off track personally, professionally, or spiritually, I willingly choose to give up my autonomy in favor of accountability and growth. It's kind of like giving your life to Christ, only I give authority to a few men to use God's Word against me any time they wish. That's family... and that's what we all need if we're going to finish strong in the faith.

"As iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17

So... like it or not, do you have anyone in your life who you've given complete authority to "get in your face"? You'll never be the Christian you could be until you not only give someone that authority, but also willingly accept their love and their discipline.

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Prayer?

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 10:00:17 GMT

Is prayer important? No, really, is prayer important? I believe most Christians believe it's a good thing, but I wonder if they believe it's important enough to actually do it! Generally, I think we find our way just fine without God, and I suspect He's sorely disappointed. I sometimes wonder all the good He could have done for me and my family if I had only asked. What's worse though, is that many Christians don't actually just do things without prayer, but instead they resort to Horoscope readings, spiritual advisors, and worse to find their way. Sure, they'll tell you that it's just for fun, but God has a whole different perspective on it. Not praying is bad enough, but consorting with demons... we'll, that doesn't just keep us from receiving good gifts or help from the Lord. That part actually makes Him really angry!

"Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse." 2 Chronicles 10:13-14

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Worst Case?

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:21:44 GMT

Dear Friends,

Last month I shared my woes with rupturing my Achilles tendon and how my surgeon told me to go "slow, slow, slow!" Well, I was trying! I really was! But that didn't help me when one of my crutches slipped on the smooth concrete in my garage and I fell...hard! I knew it wasn't good, but after a few minutes of catching my breath I was able to get myself back together and get into the house. A few days after that, increased pain told me something more serious had happened and that something was wrong. The doctor worked me into his schedule that very morning so he could take a look. With one glance, his concern was obvious. He told me I wouldn't be going home that day and I'd be having another surgery. As he put it, "this is the worst-case scenario!" "You've re-ruptured your Achilles and this time the surgery is much more invasive and quite a bit more complicated."

And so, I'm back to the beginning of my healing process. This time the doctor called my bluff on how careful I told him I'd be, and he put me in a cast up to my knee. He also promised it wouldn't be coming off anytime soon! Now, I get more practice in going slow. Since there's no getting around it, I also get more work on my attitude and my patience.

Although I'm very grateful for wonderful medical care, I would argue one point with my surgeon... This is NOT the worst-case scenario! For starters, I still have two legs, and some people don't have any. I go home to a warm and cozy house, and many don't have anything near that. Of course, the real "worst case scenario" would be never hearing or believing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Of the reality of the Cross and of the Resurrection of my Lord and Savior, I have no doubt! And that my friends is an unrevokable gift from God, the absolute best case scenario there has ever been or will be!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Community and More!

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 00:12:51 GMT

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done. (Proverbs 19:17)

Friends,

Do you know something I love? A good thrift store find. There is something about uncovering a deal, something someone else has discarded, at a price just right for me! Kids clothes are always something I look for, but I have found many off the wall things too, like a spectacular old coffee grinder. I will proudly display it on my counter as both functional and pretty!

You know what is maybe even better than a good thrift store find? Knowing the heart behind the thrift store. Second Harvest is the store run by the ministry to bring in funds for the ministry – but it is so much more! It is often a “face” to the community where we can serve our nearby low-income neighbors with affordable and sometimes free goods. By charging low, reasonable prices we strive to create a store where everyone has access to essential household items and clothing regardless of their financial circumstances.

Yes, Second Harvest takes in used items and resells them to the community, but more we want to serve our community and be known as a place where people are treated with dignity and respect. We really try hard to provide customer service, reasonable pricing, and of course, great finds!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Journal Notes:
* Groceries were ordered for another family who needed some help during a hard time!
* Clothing was given to a homeless man who was brought to the store by his case worker.

Lifestyle?

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 10:00:11 GMT

"These people come near me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men." Isaiah 29:13

For many, Christianity is a lifestyle. They go to church, or youth group or maybe a weekly outreach event, and they probably enjoy themselves. Possibly they have Christian friends, or Christian family, or both. Maybe they read their Bibles and say their prayers and they might even give a portion of their earnings to the Lord. No doubt this does sound like a stark comparison to the lives some people live--chasing after every kind of vice and sin. But, would you be surprised to find that both lives, if they are missing one key ingredient--complete devotion to Christ--are very similar in the Lord's eyes. In fact, you might be even more shocked to learn Jesus is quicker to approve of the second person's life than He is the first. No amount of Christian lifestyle is a substitute for unashamedly giving your life to Christ--wholly and permanently! It even stands to reason the person with the supposed "Christian lifestyle" may, in all actuality, be further from reaching out to God than the person who's playing with fire on a daily basis. Frankly, a true Christian lifestyle means giving everything to Christ, and living a life of complete faith and devotion to Him. Jesus put it this way, and, of course, His words say it best...

"In the same say, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:33

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Self?

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 10:00:07 GMT

We are each born with a strong understanding of "me" and "mine." Selfishness is something that nobody has ever had to learn. Catering to "self" is what makes the world tick. Corporations that entertain such a truth become wealthy overnight by giving people what they each feel they "deserve." No doubt we've all heard plenty about "self-esteem," but I would submit to you that anything that builds up "self" is dangerous. What we need to do is forget about self, and seek to serve both God and others. The true meaning of life is not to get all you can get--to die with the most toys! But rather to deny self, pick up your cross and follow Jesus. In stark contrast to a selfish world, Jesus came denying His royal position. He laid what he "deserved" aside to serve both you and me. Frankly, to only be concerned about "self" is the epitome of evil--such is the task of demons, not Christ followers.

"What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth [the demons asked]? Have you come to destroy us?" Mark 1:24a

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Conservative?

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT

I am clearly a conservative Christian. Anyone who knows me personally would immediately give testimony to that fact. But I wonder, would many Americans be able to describe exactly what a "conservative Christian" is? Frankly, I've become irritated a multitude of times as I've watched television shows that interviewed so-called "conservative Christians." Honestly, I don't think I want to be grouped with most of them. Being conservative is the opposite of being liberal. It's a political statement, and sometimes a statement about where one gets their values. But being a Christian clearly means being Christ-like. Most of the more popular "conservative Christian" voices I've heard seem to feel that they have the right to beat down anyone who doesn't think like they do. They appear to know everything, and simply refuse to hear otherwise. Sure, right is right and wrong is wrong--we should never say that it isn't. But being Christ-like also means "loving your neighbor as yourself," whether you like his politics or not. The same Bible that gives us our conservative values also tells us to love the Lord, and to prove it by loving our neighbors. I think a lot more people might consider being both "conservative" and maybe even "Christian" if we were to practice what our Lord preaches.

"Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 10:16)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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How Insulting!

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 10:00:02 GMT

Before I truly knew the Lord, I would have called myself a Christian if someone asked, but I really didn't know what I was talking about. I hadn't really trusted in Him as my Lord and Savior, instead depending on my own ability to "be a good person." After receiving the Truth, I've tried to be faithful in giving Him access to my whole life, and I've learned something valuable by doing so. When you step out of your comfort zone, and publicly proclaim your allegiance to Christ, people are going to hate you for it! You wouldn't think it possible, but I've been called a "blankety-blank Christian" to my face more than once--and this by people who knew I was a minister. It's almost laughable as I think about it. All those years I claimed to be a Christian but wasn't, nobody ever gave a care about my faith (or lack thereof). Now it seems like I have a target on my chest. So... you want proof of the Holy Spirit's work in your life and that Satan is also alive and well. Make your faith public. It'll only take a few moments before you're "blessed" with some persecution for His sake.

"If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you." 1 Peter 4:14

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Insider Information!

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:00:02 GMT

There's been a lot of hype about high-rollers in the business world selling stocks right before the price plummeted. As the details have emerged, the vast majority of them are under suspicion for what we call "insider trading." Basically, they knew something about the companies involved before anyone else did. They sold their stocks just in time, leaving everyone else "holding the bag." The government and just about everyone else is furious about it, but nobody's madder than those who didn't have the "inside" information. Many of them (myself included) have watched their stock portfolios lose large sums of money because of the resulting volatility in the stock market.

The whole insider trading thing makes me wonder... If Christians have the "inside scoop" on everything from eternity with God to the coming signs of the end of the world as we know it, why don't they share it more often? It's not against the law (at least not yet anyway) to share the Good News of Jesus! I wonder, what will our friends think when they look up to heaven and see us embracing our Lord? Friends? It's hard to imagine a friend would have the inside scoop, be within their legal bounds to tell you about it, and decide not to for "personal reasons."

"The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.' " Jesus of Nazareth (Luke 16:22-26)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Good Friday?

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 10:00:00 GMT

Although Jesus chose to enter the world as a meek and gentle baby boy, for those who call on His Name, He is anything but meek in their lives. It wasn't for "Christmas" that Jesus entered the world, but rather for Good Friday and Easter (the days he died and was resurrected). Through His death, He regained the ability for man to be intimate with God. Through His resurrection, He gave each of us the ability to be born again, to be new in every way, and to defeat the sin within us. For me this is my toughest battle. Still, I know it's not with my power, but with His power that victory is mine. As we allow ourselves to join Him in His death--denying ourselves, picking up our crosses, and following Him, then we find the power we need. We talk a lot about the need for a "personal relationship with Christ" in today's evangelical churches. I say "amen" to that, but we also need to remember the ability to defeat the sin within us is found inside that relationship! He won the battle for us, but as long as we're still in these bodies, we've got to assert His power to live righteous lives.

"If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that thee body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--because anyone who has died has been freed from sin." Romans 6:5-7

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Returning the Favor?

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:00:01 GMT

When someone does something for me I like to return the favor if I can. It's not that I don't like people doing things for me, it's just that I somehow feel indebted to them--especially if they've done a lot. As Christians we've got to be careful that we don't do things for other people to get things for ourselves, or because we believe their wealth or status may benefit us somewhere done the road. It's in our nature to treat people who can do something for us well, but often we're not as kind, compassionate and giving to those who can't help us a bit. Instead, what we're supposed to do is watch out for people who really aren't in the position to help us, and then help them. If possible, we need to do it so that only Jesus gets the credit for it. To do the opposite is actually sinful.

"Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, 'Here's a good seat for you,' but say to the poor man, 'You stand there' or 'Sit on the floor by my feet,' have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?" James 2:2-4

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Which One?

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:00:01 GMT

Many people are shocked to learn that about half of Jesus' time-honored parables spoke of money. Money is neither good or evil, but what it does in the human heart is either one or the other! The heart of the person who loves money will never be a heart fully devoted to God. Probably my favorite example of this "one or the other" theology was proven out by Judas' betrayal of Jesus. He walked the Earth with Jesus for three years, but when it came right down to it, Judas loved money more than he loved Jesus. He sold his friend for thirty pieces of silver. Money is a "necessary evil" in today's world, but it must be kept in its proper place. If you are totally without money but have God, you'll be just fine. If you're totally without God but have money, you're destined for an eternity with neither.

"What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you? [said Judas] So they counted out for him thirty silver coins." Matthew 26:15b

Pastor Jim Kilby

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The Rock!

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 10:00:02 GMT

After everything God helped Moses to do on behalf of the nation of Israel, the people complained right to the very end. How exasperating that must have been for Moses and his sidekick Aaron. Hadn't these people seen the miracles? Hadn't they survived 39 years in the desert? Right before the Lord brings them into the promise land they were griping about their lack of water. Finally, Moses had all he could stand and went to the Lord.

DUI?

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Before I was a Christian, I'm sad to say I was guilty of driving under the influence on more than one occasion. As I look back through those ghastly years, I honestly can't think of a single thing I ever accomplished while I was drinking that was worthy of praise. What's more, just about everything I'm truly sorry for I did while I was intoxicated. It's no wonder the Apostle Paul uses drunkenness in contrast to being "filled with the Spirit" in his plea to Ephesian Christians who were "tipping a few!" It's a perfect analogy. In either case a person is "under the influence" of something. These days, I'm still a puppet to something that intoxicates me, but the puppet master is trustworthy. These days I'm strictly a "soft" drink man! Unlike alcohol, my Lord has great things in store for me when I give Him control.

"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." Ephesians 5:18

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Real Love!

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:00:02 GMT

I think the world has a real misconception when it comes to defining "love." Most folks will tell you that love is this really "warm fuzzy" feeling you get when you're around someone you care about. Although that is no doubt a great feeling, it probably has more to do with hormones than it does with love. As the popular Christian song puts it, "Love is a verb!" Love is something you DO, and something that you may experience being done to you. Love isn't even necessarily enjoyable at the moment you receive it. For example, today I had to scold one of my daughters who wasn't following directions very well. Was that love? She'd probably prefer to be showered with hugs and kisses when she disobeys, but one day she'll learn that the discipline my wife and I show her is also love. Jesus also loves us, and will be sure to give us the discipline we need to grow and change into something He can readily use for His work. When you receive that type of love, take the time to rejoice just like you do when you receive the "warm fuzzy" kind of love from Him.

"Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent." Jesus of Nazareth (Revelation 3:19)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Substandard?

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

How's your brand of Christianity doing lately? Have you been working with the Spirit our Lord gave you, or are you working against Him? If there's one thing that bothers me about the Body of Christ, it's the large percentage of folks who call themselves Christian, but seem to be more interested in "talking the talk" than they are in "walking the walk." There's not a whole lot I can do about the rest of the Body of Christ. But for me, I refuse to live life as a substandard Christian. Each day is a new day to find a way to be faithful with the work He's given me to do. I don't know about you, but I refuse to hang my head in shame when I meet my Lord. I want it to be a glorious reunion, and I know He wants the same thing!

"But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you." 1 Samuel 12:24

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Slow Down!

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 01:05:48 GMT

Dear Friends,

Some friends have been trying to get me to play pickle ball for a couple of years. Although I’d never spent any time playing racket sports, I’ve become okay at most sports I’ve tried, so I finally went and watched them. It looked they were all having fun and it seemed simple enough, so when they urged me to come and play the next week, I went. Honestly, it was more humbling than I thought. I was consistently standing in the wrong place, hitting the ball to the wrong spot and sweating more than anyone else. Still, I’m super competitive, so I had fun. When they asked me to come and play again, I did. Since I’d already did it once, this time I jumped in without warming up, stretching, or even giving much thought to the shoes I was wearing. All of that proved to be a mistake. Not three minutes into my second attempt I was trying to slam the ball back at my opponent when I suddenly fell to the ground. It felt like someone had crashed into me from behind or maybe hit me with something. As I lay there unable to get up by myself, I soon realized I’d ruptured an Achilles tendon. Soon, I was being carried to the closest exit. Within a week, I was having surgery followed by a hundred warnings by my surgeon, ”TAKE IT SLOW!!” “This is going to be a loooong recovery!”

Currently, I’m getting a new shot at learning both patience and humility. Sure, I know what the Holy Bible says about patience. And I’ve read entire books about true biblical humility. But when you cannot get into or out of a shower, cannot go to the bathroom alone, and are forced to do even the most mundane tasks on a scooter, you have two options. You can become impatient and shake your fist at the sky, or you can learn to become more patient with yourself and others. And since you won’t be walking on your own either way, accepting the heavy dose of humility and learning to be more patient are the best options.

In all things we must find a way to give thanks! So, I appreciate your prayers as I slow down a bit and thank God I didn’t break something more important!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

100 Requests?

beth@harvestyouth.org (Elizabeth Kilby) — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 01:03:31 GMT

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, ²¹ to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21, NIV)

Friends,

We had two young women send emails recently, both staying in a local women’s shelter, both asking for donations of coats, clothing, and winter items. My first thought was, I cannot wait to work on these requests! My second thought was, if word gets out and even half the people in the shelter ask for help, there would be over 100 requests! It immediately made me nervous.

It didn’t take long for those nerves to go away because I know God is able to do so much more than I can fathom. Would it be complicated? Probably. Messy? Maybe. But wouldn’t it be beautiful?!?

I have seen God show up time and again in this ministry, in my personal life, and in the lives of those around me in more ways than I can count. He provides things I don’t even think to request. Some of my big, daring asks are met in ways I never could have imagined.

I have no desire to get stuck in a place where requests and needs are met with any sort of fear instead of prayer and joy. I’m almost embarrassed to admit I had a moment where that was the case. God is in the big picture and the details and I’m excited to see what may come of these first two contacts. Maybe nothing…maybe something big! Pray with us, would you?

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Journal Notes:
* A young man who recently leased an apartment after living in his car was given household items needed!

* Continue contact and encouragement for a young lady looking for housing and a job.

No Way!

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

"But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way." Acts 19:9a

You may be surprised to learn that the term "Christian" did not come along during the days Jesus walked the Earth. Those who followed Jesus' teachings were originally called "the Way." In fact, when they were first called "Christians" it was only to mock them as being "little Christ's". In some ways, I almost wish we still were called "the Way" because that is exactly what Jesus was, and it is also what we are. Jesus clearly said He was the ONLY "way" into heaven, and we are supposed to point the way! Unfortunately, we live in a world where many people who call themselves Christians do not believe Jesus is the only way to a right relationship with God. This thinking is in direct conflict with the Word of God and with Jesus Himself. Jesus said He was the only way. All of the prophets agreed, the miracles testified, and even the Spirit of God now confirms Jesus is the ONLY WAY. Stand firm in that God-given belief. If Jesus isn't "the Way," then everything we stand for is a lie and everything we believe is a joke.

"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" John 14:6

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Prove It!

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:05 GMT

If there's one thing the average skeptic wants me to do after they hear the gospel, it's to prove Jesus was who He said He was. "Sure!" I'll tell them. But first I always ask them to prove to me George Washington walked the Earth. When they tell me it's common knowledge, I tell them just because lots of people believe something doesn't mean it's true. If that was the case, the world would be flat! What makes something believable is evidence. The truth is much more evidence exists as to prove the existence of Jesus Christ than does to prove George Washington was the first President of the United States. Sure, we have written eyewitness testimonies of ole George's life, and we have His own words too. But we have even more of the same for Jesus. The real kicker isn't necessarily in that evidence though. What most skeptics find hard to reconcile is the prophecies of Jesus were foretold for thousands of years before His birth. He lived out every single one of them, proving with mathematical exactness He was who He said He was. Jesus also used His own words to prophecy about His own death and resurrection to further prove His deity to His followers. Proof? Proof is easy! What's hard to break through is the skeptical human heart that's been blinded by the enemy. Only the Spirit of Almighty God can break through that!

"I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am He." Jesus of Nazareth (John 13:19)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Hopeless?

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT

There's surely not anyone who's older than 10 who's not heard of all the child abductions going on in the world today. And it's not just the high-profile ones in the United States either. Crazy stuff is going on everywhere. I heard last night that instances of violent crimes are also on the rise again, and that only about half of today's murders are ever solved. It seems as if they world has gone insane all of a sudden... but it hasn't. It's still the same as it ever was! We just have more access to what's going on than we've ever had before. Read through the Old Testament for yourself and you'll find stories even worse than those I've outlined--this insanity has been going on for thousands of years. The bottom line is that apart from God, man is a wretched creature. And it's not just other people either. Just imagine the evil you could do if you put your mind to it! The only answer for the world is Jesus Christ, and the only hope is full submission to His authority. What have you done about the evil lurking inside of you?

"Ah, sinful nation, a people loaded with guilt, a brood of evildoers, children given to corruption! They have forsaken the Lord; they have spurned the Holy One of Israel and turned their backs on him." Isaiah 1:4

Pastor Jim Kilby

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"Peace!"

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:00:01 GMT

"Peace baby! It's O.K. Everything is cool!"

Do you have high hopes for the future? Deep down inside, do you feel like things are going to be okay? There are times when I'd do anything to feel that way, but I can't. God's Word leads me to believe He will have to return before things will truly get better. The signs of the end are coming more rapidly these days. Just today I heard a news story about people being implanted with microchips that will one day be able to contain all the information about them--checking accounts, medical information, whether or not they are terrorists, or Christians! There are some who believe these microchips could one day be the long-awaited "mark of the beast" spoken of in the book of Revelation. If you watched the news today (or any day in the last year), you'll have seen a complete lack of restraint on the part of terrorists the world over, including those attacking America and Israel. Events like these and many others happening each and every day have long been foretold by God's Word. Will things get better? Yes, they most certainly will. But I'd be lying to you if I told you I thought that they'd be ushered in by men's accomplishments. Mankind will continue his downward spiral, but Christians must stand in the gap. We are to be the salt and light of the Earth, and to stand firm, even in the worst of times. No, I don't think things are going to be okay until He returns, but I know that none of these events are taking my Lord by surprise. Stand firm then... and pray! A hurting world needs to know about your Savior!

"Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled." 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Highly Motivated?

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

What Jesus did on the cross not only gives those who believe and accept His sacrifice the promise of redemption from sin, but it should also motivate them to walk a life worthy of His blood. If you ask me what makes the Christian church so anemic today, it's that so few who call themselves Christians desire to walk with Christ. Sadly, I believe it's highly unlikely many of them even know the Lord--choosing to fellowship with believers for their own selfish reasons. I've seen it too often, and I've seen it from too many to see it any other way. A prayer or some religious sounding jargon uttered to God once and followed by no evidence of the Spirit is not the Christian life--it is evil masquerading as light. It not only gives evidence of the lack of God's presence, but done in the name of Christ no doubt drives others from His bleeding side! If the blood of God's own Son poured out for our sins doesn't motivate us to walk in righteousness, then nothing ever will. No amount of Bible thumping and church attendance will ever change it.

"Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God." 1 Peter 4:1-2

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Legalese!

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

I believe there is quite a lot of confusion about the purpose and the condition of the Old Testament Law. For some odd reason, about half of the churches I've visited seem to be trying to keep the Law alive. In contrast, the other half seem to be trying to prove they can do just about anything because the Old Testament is "irrelevant" in today's church. Far be it from me to say that 100% of churches are wrong, but I do believe that the Law has lost its meaning for many of us. No matter how hard people or even whole churches try, they will never be able to keep the Law. In a nutshell, that's the whole point. God gave us the Law so that we could prove to ourselves that we were and are evil in His sight. In a sense, it is the Law that proves to our hearts that we need a Savior. Does that mean that in the light of the New Testament all of the commands of the Law are now meaningless? Certainly not! In fact, most of it can be used as an awesome measure of a Christian's walk with the Lord. But... a person's salvation is not determined by his or her ability to keep even a portion of the Law. Salvation is determined by their condition with Christ.

"Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin." Romans 3:20

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Accuser!

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:00:02 GMT

Did you know the word translated Satan means "accuser" in Hebrew. Believe it or not, Satan (the great accuser) is not in hell. The Bible tells us that one day he will be confined to hell, but he is not there yet. In fact, the Scriptures lead us to understand he still has access to God, and get this, for the purpose of pointing out our failures! Frankly, I don't think the Lord would need someone to point out my failures, they're surely obvious to everyone! But what's interesting is that for those who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, Satan might as well be "talking to the hand!" God is not listening... choosing instead to forgive and forget, removing our filth and replacing it with royalty! Imagine standing before God wearing clothes covered with the nastiest and smelliest things you can imagine, all the while Satan standing beside you pointing out why you smell so bad! Got the picture? Good... Now read this:

“Then he [an angel] showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. The Lord said to Satan, 'The Lord rebuke you, Satan! The Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not his man a burning stick snatched from the fire?' Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. The angel said to those who were standing before him, 'Take off his filthy clothes.' Then he said to Joshua, 'See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put rich garments on you.'" Zechariah 3:1-4

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Redrum?

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

A bone chilling movie once confused its audience by showing the word "redrum" scribbled on a wall over and over only for the audience to later learn that it was simply "murder" when viewed in a mirror. It was backwards... nothing more, nothing less. No doubt, for those who were utterly confused and then later "enlightened" it sure seemed like something awfully simple to be confused by. Similarly, evil has turned a lot of thing in today's world around and made them look different. Kids are killing themselves because they feel worthless, when in fact they are priceless. For many, sex, drugs, and the like seem like the answer to life's problems, when in fact sobriety is the only road where real peace can be found. Today, I watched a pro-life judge being grilled by the U.S. Senate. She faces this harassment, not for a lack of legal ability, but for her belief that children should be aborted in only the most extreme cases (like the imminent death of the mother). They weren't just asking a few questions to further understand her convictions, but were attacking her viciously, as if to say, "Only an idiot would have a problem with a woman's right to abort her own child." Surely, evil has flipped everything backwards in this issue as well. "Murder" as described in the Bible, is the taking of innocent blood. As the same Senators were later attacking Israel for dropping a bomb that killed 14 innocent civilians, I thought, how ironic! Sure, 14 people losing their lives is tragic, but what about the lives of the millions of children aborted each year. Our own elected officials are complaining about one, and approving the other! Let there be no illusions. "Choice" has killed far more people in this country than has AIDS, heart disease, and about forty other diseases combined. And what could possibly be worse? Many churches are not just asleep on the sidelines, but they are actually working for the enemy. People are sacrificing their children to the idols of "stuff" and "time" and the church of Jesus Christ is applauding them for it.

Father, forgive us!

"They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan, and the land was desecrated by their blood." Psalm 106:38

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Crooks!

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:00:01 GMT

Have you noticed the fury our lawmakers are in trying to get some new laws passed so they can jail corporate executives who do dishonest things? Hey, even I would like to see some of those guys go to jail--I've lost 2/3rds of my retirement fund over the last two years. But jail or no jail, the problem is not in a lack of laws. Our country is simply reaping what it has sown. These people are supposed to be our best and brightest young minds. If you will, our princes! So what's the problem? Our churches have let them down by either driving them away, or feeding them less than the Truth. Their parents have let them down by divorcing, or chasing money instead of God, or any one of 1000 other ways. And frankly, our country has let them down, too. In 1963 God's word was removed from the classrooms and prayer became prohibited. The students who grew up in those classrooms are now sitting in board rooms. Laws? Laws won't help someone who's without a moral compass. I can only wonder this why did it take them so long to start stealing.

"Her priests have done violence to My law and have profaned My holy things; they have made no distinction between the holy and the profane, and they have not taught the difference between the unclean and the clean; and they hide their eyes from My sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Her princes within her are like wolves tearing the prey, by shedding blood and destroying lives in order to get dishonest gain. Her prophets have smeared whitewash for them, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, 'Thus says the Lord GOD,' when the LORD has not spoken." Ezekial 22:26-28

Pastor Jim Kilby

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I'm All Shook Up!

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 11:00:11 GMT

The Scriptures have abundant examples of the details surrounding how many early believers came to know Jesus as Lord. Some were eye witnesses of His incredible miracles and some were convicted of their sins after hearing the early disciples witness of His saving grace. Paul and others led some to Christ by using their considerable education to convincingly argue the deity of Jesus. For me, and for many other headstrong sinners, however, our worlds had to be shaken so hard that we were left searching for answers. Believe it or not, trouble can often come from the hand of God, for His express purposes. I wouldn't want to live through them again, but I'm grateful for their result! My suspicion is that those who found themselves in a similar boat will be eternally grateful as well.

"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose. The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped [he would have been put to death]. But Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!" The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, 'Sirs, what must I do to be saved?'" Acts 16:23-30

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Wasn't Me!

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

When man first sinned, the second sin was to blame everyone but himself. He even had the audacity to blame God! And if you want some great proof the Scriptures are God's word, then how about this one. The Bible proves itself true because nothing has really changed about mankind in the thousands of years since the very first sin. "Wasn't me!," is still the retort of just about anyone who gets caught doing just about anything. It's even the name of a popular rap tune. Isn't it ironic that the man who sent Jesus to the cross said almost the same thing. Fortunately, those who accept Jesus' sacrifice often learn to also accept the responsibility for their own actions. Without repentance, a man will never seek salvation. Why would he? Nothing was his fault!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Wed, 14 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

It's St. Valentines' Day again! Generally though, today we just drop the "Saint' part, no doubt in part because the holiday has become more of an "eros" love celebration. "Eros" is just one Greek word for "love" from which we get out word "erotic". No doubt that's why the jewelry stores and places like Victoria's Secret have been packed with American men for days now! They know that if the sacrifice a few bucks, they might get something in return! And if they don't... there might be hell to pay! From my studies, however, the "holiday" was originally more of a "holy day" to celebrate love like "philia" (friendship) "agape" (true love) and "storge" (love of one's family). Sure, it's human nature to celebrate things that get us something in return or which entice our sensual side, but the Christian has a higher-calling. We are actually called to be "known by our love". We are to be busy reflecting the love of Christ onto the world around us-and not just to those who may reciprocate. It's this kind of love that sacrifices and dies for complete strangers... and ultimately changes the world forever.

"You have heard that the law of Moses says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 5:43-47)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Tue, 06 Feb 2024 11:00:01 GMT

"They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son." Zechariah 12:10b

The Jews blew it! Even though prophet Zechariah had warned them more than 500 years earlier, they still blew it. They listened to the priests and they begged for Jesus to be crucified instead of the criminal who should have died. They were wrong, and when they realized what they had done it was too late! They had killed their long awaited Savior! But God was there. He already had the situation well in hand. It had been His plan all along--to sacrifice His Son to save you and me--His wayward creation. Sure, they blew it--and so has every one of us. Thanks be to God that He turns our mistakes into opportunities for His Glory. Thanks be to God for the fountain that saves us from our sins!

"On that day a foundation will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity." Zechariah 13:1

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Higher Power?

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 00:56:55 GMT

"And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14, NKJV)

Friends,

I’m working with a young person who has been hospitalized three times during the last few months. They have really strong anxiety issues which drive them to a place where they feel completely out of control. When I dig down to understand what’s the catalyst for all of this anxiety, the reasons are myriad: Gender identify issues, suicidal ideation, unresolved anger against parents, siblings, friends, teachers, etc., etc. During their hospital stays, psychiatrists and counselors recommend one drug or another to solve the problems. As you can imagine, drugs won’t help with the real issues behind the anxiety. The bottom line is this young person refuses to even consider a thought of a “higher power”. Talks of Jesus’ are met with laughs and smug replies. They seem to think they’ve got it all figured out, when in reality, they have nothing figured out. Their life is a mess!

When I think about all this further, I realize this exact situation seems to be where the whole world is. Young people are surrounded by drug abuse and addiction. The recent legalization of marijuana in many States, including Ohio, isn’t helping with that either. Instead of looking to God for knowledge, many young people are happier to spend their days vaping, drinking and fornicating. And why wouldn’t they? Isn’t that what virtually every media source points them to? Godlessness abounds! Thanks to laws rapidly changing in Ohio and other states, abortion is now a constitutional right and abortion pills are “on demand”. Last month in Ohio, our Republican Governor went against his own party, vetoing a bill that would have made gender reassignment surgery illegal. Now, the opposite is true. When you think about it, hardly anything is getting better for young people. Potential jobs are being automated. The economy seems to be in crisis. The cost of higher education doubles again and again. Thanks to hard hearts and no-fault divorce, families are as broken as they’ve ever been. Even those raised in good churches are not immune. And so, our mission continues. And while we can’t help everybody, we can help those the Lord brings into our circles. The Gospel remains the only answer that will change a heart, a soul, and an all eternity! Thank you for your prayers and support in so many ways.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

A + B = ?

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 21:09:45 GMT

‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9, NIV)

Friends,

I don’t know about you, but I like results. I like to see if I do A, B happens…and even better if it happens right now! I am finding life doesn’t really work like that, but a girl can dream. Perhaps though, what I really like are reminders my effort of A…plus someone else’s contribution B, plus another C, etc, equals a really cool, only God, result of Z.

I had a chat with a lovely young lady I’ve known for YEARS the other day and was delighted she was on the wisdom giving end of the conversation, talking me through things which were her specialty and my growth area. I was also delighted when she told me it felt like life was finally coming together. It was beautiful.

I also received a message the other day from a young lady I’ve known for over 20 years. She sent me a picture of the inscription in a Bible I gave her back in 2005. It says “Because you are my little sister, my friend, and a Princess!” The very fact we have stayed in touch for so long blows my mind. But I’m here, and always a safe place for her…and she knows it.

A doesn’t always mean B will happen right away. Sometimes it is 20 years later when things are remembered or revisited. It’s important to remember it’s ok. God is not slow in His work and it is absolutely beautiful when we take note of the things He is doing and agree to join Him even without knowing, sometimes ever knowing, what the end result will be.

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

One Wish!

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT

We've all heard the mythical stories of Genie's popping out of bottles, and just about everyone has thought about what they would ask for if they had three wishes. But what if you only had one wish? Believe it or not, God actually asked a man a similar question. Here's the biblical account...

"At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, 'Ask for whatever you want me to give you.'" 1 Kings 3:5

So, what would you wish for? Solomon made an interesting request indeed. He was newly appointed as King over all of Israel, and even though an ordinary man might have thought he deserved wealth and honor, Solomon felt he needed wisdom above those things. God honored his request, and to this day no one has ever been as wise as Solomon. What's more, no one has ever been as wealthy! Consider what your request would be of God. Do you think it would honor Him? If not, your priorities might need some adjusting to come under God's will. If you've been purchased by His Blood, that's where your priorities are supposed to be!

"The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him, 'Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have you asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for--both riches and honor--so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.'" 1 Kings 3:10-13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Too Hard!

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 11:00:05 GMT

"Get up on Sunday morning! You've got to be kidding me!"

I've heard similar comments from more people than I remember, and honestly, I've learned to let it fall on deaf ears. For most folks, you could have church on Saturday, Sunday, or bring the whole church, choir and all to their house at a time of their personal choosing and they wouldn't be interested. I know because I used to be just like them! Before I was a Christian, I used to get up at 6:15 a.m. and head out to work five days a week, complaining all the way. On Saturday and Sunday however, I'd get up at 5:00 a.m. and head out to the country club where I'd meet my buddies for coffee followed by 18 holes of golf! Funny, I never complained a bit about that how early our tee-times were. I believe the argument about "Sunday morning" is a worthless one. The same person who refuse to go to church because it's too early, will sooner or later be found getting up to go hunting, fishing, or any one of a hundred other things with great excitement. It's not about the time of day or the day of the week. Instead, it's all about what you love. Truly, I used to "love" golf. I loved my golfing buddies, and I NEVER let them down! Now, it's a pastime that I enjoy, but I don't let it (or my buddies) interfere with my walk with Christ, my family, or my ministry. For those folks who choose to "forsake the assembly" and claim they can "worship God on the golf course" I have only this to say: Sure you can worship God on the golf course, or in your fishing boat, or wherever you want to. The real question is not CAN you, but DO YOU? Friends, it's all about what (or who) you love. And if you loved the Body of Christ, you'd be there!

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Get Behind Me!

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:00:01 GMT

Remember that Scripture where Jesus says to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan"? (Matthew 16:23). Imagine... Jesus, the friend you'd been walking the Earth with and ministering with for three years just said such a thing to you. What a bitter pill that must have been for Peter to swallow. After all, he was only trying to help when he received the firm rebuke. Peter had in mind the things of Satan, and not of God--foolish sinners like you and I often do the same thing. We get out in front of God, doing things what seem right, but often we later learn the error of our ways. As painful as it might have been, at least Peter knew that at that very moment that he was in error. For us, the only sure way is often to search the Scriptures and pray for divine guidance. Incidentally, when we move out in front of God, we actually put Him where Jesus ordered Satan to go.

"You have done more evil than all who loved before you. You have made for yourself other gods, idols made of metal; you have provoked me to anger and THRUST ME BEHIND YOUR BACK." 1 Kings 14:9 (Emphasis mine)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Self Esteem?

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

A lack of self esteem is clearly the #1 problem I see in teens I work with. It's worse in girls, but boys suffer from it plenty as well. Why? Why would people who look just fine on the surface, have such deep seated doubts about their own self-worth. I believe it's a simple problem, but one that is unbelievably prevalent today. It probably all gets started by the"experts" like psychologists who tell us we can build other people's self-esteems for them. This is simply untrue. We can set up situations where people can build their own self-esteem through accomplishing things they otherwise might not have tried, or didn't think they could accomplish. For example, a parent can challenge a child to bring home better grades, or do better at something they've been slacking at, continually being the "cheerleader" and coach until the child gains strength (and ultimately self esteem) from their accomplishments. The bottom line though is that once a person truly understands that God made them, and loved them so much He gave His Son for them, they'll want to meet the challenges God lays before them. The Spirit of God will urge them to live their lives as a huge "thank you" to God, and healthy (note "healthy" not "puffed-up") self-esteems will follow.

"But we ought always to thank God for you brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. He called YOU to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 (Emphasis mine)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Worship?

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:00:02 GMT

Most Christian churches have a "worship service" on Sunday. Some churches have them on Saturday, and even others on Wednesday. Still, even with all these worship services, there is a bad misconception about what worship is. Worship is not something you attend, but rather something that you do. Worship is being completely and totally preoccupied with God. I've heard it said that if you don't worship God seven days a week, you don't worship God at all. I believe that saying is truer than most of us would like to believe. Do you worship God on Sunday and then forget about Him the rest of the week? If so, then you don't worship Him on Sunday either. Make Him the God of your whole life and not just the God of an hour or so each week. Then He will show you what true worship is.

"Then the man said, 'Lord, I believe,' and he worshiped him." John 9:38

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Freedom From Religion!

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 11:00:09 GMT

"Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis. A conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are of the gift of God. That they cannot be violated except with His wrath. I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just. And that His justice cannot sleep forever." -- Thomas Jefferson

I heard a well thought-out comment from a Christian leader on the new. He was lamenting the idiotic court decision to have the words "under God" removed from the Pledge of Allegiance of the United States. His comment... "Our Constitution guarantees people the freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion!" Excellent point, and one that should be taken to heart by anyone who would remove references to God anywhere they find them. Americans who believed in God put those words in the Pledge--who are unbelievers to take them out? It's also interesting that the money these folks use to file these ridiculous lawsuits has "In God We Trust" clearly printed on every piece of it. Here's the way I see it. If a person wants freedom from God, they will get it sooner than they think. An eternity in hell will fit that wish perfectly. Fortunately, God loves these non-believers enough to continue to submit Himself and His Prophets to their ridicule. His longsuffering attitude is not eternal however.

"The nations on every shore will worship him, every one in its own land." Zephaniah 2:11b

Pastor Jim Kilby

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In Christ?

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

For years I've been signing letters, notes, and emails with the closing, "In Christ." I've seen many others tag-lines that Christians use, but for me, "In Christ" has long been my favorite. For those who may have wondered why I use the closing, the phrase, "In Christ" comes from the New Testament and it was often used by the Apostle Paul to describe the relationship we have with our Lord. Basically, it means we are "one" with Jesus. We know that the His Holy Spirit inhabits every believer, but do we often realize that every believer also inhabits Jesus Christ? That is to say, that every Christian, regardless of race, sex or any other external determiners is a part of the Body of Christ. The Scriptures go on to say that every Christian actually belongs to the other--that we are all part of something larger than ourselves. We, together, make up the church of Jesus Christ. We are His bride, and He longs to bring us home to be with Him. "Sincerely," may be a wonderful closing for a letter meant for the business world, but when I sign a letter to you (my brothers and sisters), I will always sign it "In Christ."

"But now IN CHRIST Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ." Ephesians 2:13 (Emphasis mine)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Push Me, Pull Me?

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 11:00:01 GMT

As a young man, I always laughed at the fictional "Push-Me-Pull-Me" character in Dr. Doolittle. It became more than just a fictional character to me, but something to ponder for hours. "What if..." I would labor. "What if something like that really existed. How would they get anywhere?" Not so long ago I saw a long train with two engines, one at each end. Weird I thought... Isn't one of those where the caboose is supposed to go? Today, both of these pictures came back to my mind as I thought of the struggle many people have with what I'll call, "Works based Salvation." So what does it mean? Basically, it's when otherwise all-around good folks work themselves to death trying to do enough good deeds to get themselves into heaven. They somehow believe that God will approve of them if they do enough good for other folks. Sadly, just like the Push-Me-Pull-Me or the train with the engine at both ends, "works" must be at the right end of salvation if they're to account for anything. Think of it this way. Good deeds or "works" done before meeting Jesus are worthless in God's eyes. Sure, they're good deeds, but you're still a sinner in need of salvation. Good deeds or "works" AFTER giving your life to Jesus is the true Christian's way of saying, "Thank You Jesus!" for what they've freely received by His Grace. One is pushing... the other is pulling, but only one will ever amount to anything."

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:8-10

Pastor Jim Kilby

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HELP!

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:02:59 GMT

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:39:13 GMT

"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me." (John 15:4, NKJV)

Friends,

This time of year, New Year’s Resolutions are everywhere. Social media erupts with them, diet books fly off the shelves, and it’s hard to find an open piece of equipment in the gym. People know they need change to become who they should be, and so they struggle and strive to start anew. While I’m certainly a fan of making great decisions and never looking back, the truth is “resolutions,” whether the New Year’s kind or otherwise, rarely lead to any lasting change. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “If you do tomorrow what you did today, you will get tomorrow what you got today.” Jesus taught a similar way when He spoke about these kinds of things. When a woman was caught committing adultery and brought to Him, He said to her “go and sin no more” (John 8:11). After He healed a group of people at the pool of Bethesda, (John 5:14), He said exactly the same thing! In the verse following John 15:4 (above), He said “I am the vine and you are the branches…” giving us an amazing picture of a grape vine branch cut from the host but still trying to bear fruit. A silly, yet profound truth. What we need are not more “resolutions,” but more “abiding”. We need decisions to “abide” in Christ. Another way to define “abide” is “remain”. Someone who “remains in Christ” is 100% connected to Him. There are not two, but only one. A soul who is connected to Christ doesn’t need resolutions. They have the same Holy Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead abiding within them. When the Holy Spirit urges, they lean in. When the Holy Spirit prompts, they act. And when the Holy Spirit convicts, they simply go a different direction and never look back.

May I encourage you today to consider how well you “remain” in Christ. If you’ve ever reached out to Him and accepted Him as your Lord and Savior, He is there, no matter how you may “feel” about it. Spend some time in prayer, re-devoting your life abiding in Him. Friend, that is literally the ONLY way to true Joy in this life.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Serve?

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:34:51 GMT

‘For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ Matthew 25:35-40

Friends,

As we head into the new year, this definition of serve that my husband shared with me is ringing in my ears: to put people at ease.

That could look so many different ways: helping a mama who is trying to feed her babies. Praying for someone before the doctor's appointment coming up. Helping someone move. Reaching out to see how things are going. Meeting together to talk. Furnishing a new apartment. Being available.

This year, I want to keep a journal of all the ways I see people being put at ease through the various ministries of Harvest. I can't wait to see the good things God will do as our hearts and minds continue to tune into His work around us and share them with you!

We would love to continue to partner with you as we work to serve our community - one person, one heart at a time. Here are some ways to do that…

Sign up to receive notification when Harvest Helps one-time needs are posted:
https://www.harvestyouth.org/harvest-helps-give

Consider a monthly donation to support Harvest:

https://www.harvestyouth.org/donate

Donate or shop at Second Harvest Thrift Store!
4004 Woodcliffe Ave, Dayton OH 45420, 10am-7pm Mon-Fri

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Obedience or Sacrifice?

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Imagine a teenager gets the chance to stay home alone for the weekend. There are only a few rules laid down, but they are each firmly stated by the parents. No friends over, no using the stove, and no driving the car. After the teen agrees to the rules, the parents leave. The first thing he (or she) does is call about 50 friends over for a party. Then he gets into the car and heads out to retrieve some "party favors." At the end of the weekend the house is a total disaster and there's simply no time to put everything back together. In a valiant attempt to ward off serious punishment, the child again borrows the car and heads out to buy groceries for dinner. He's not sure, but he's hoping his parents will forgive him if he cooks them their favorite meal. Of course, he'll need to cook it in the stove he agreed not to use!

1. Do the parents forgive the teen?

2. Would the parents rather have obedience or a home cooked meal?

3. Why do we think God is any different?

Immediately after God saves Israel from their enemies, King Saul completely breaks his end of the deal and ignores God's commands. Later, he decides he'll make an offering to God, even though the monument he just had erected for himself stands as a witness to his unrepentant heart... Here's what God's prophet said:

"Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination [witchcraft], and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king." 1 Samuel 22b-23

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Let It Go!

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 11:00:03 GMT

One thing we've all got in common is that we're human. Another thing that we have in common is that we're all going to make mistakes! One of the mistakes I commonly make is that I can get upset about things that I really don't have any control over. Fortunately, the Lord has slowly and methodically taught me that getting angry for the right reasons may not be a sin, but that hanging on to that anger IS a sin! Things that cause folks to get angry are bound to come along, and not all anger is bad. Still, holding on to that anger--having an unforgiving heart--doesn't do anybody a bit of good. In fact, it may do much more to harm us than we could ever imagine. The Scriptures tell us that holding on to anger can give the devil a foothold on our lives. Wouldn't it be better just to let it go!?

"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." Ephesians 4:26-27

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Satan Goes to Church!

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 11:00:05 GMT

Many people may find this quite shocking, but Satan goes to church! He's all for religion. He's all for religious people, too! When religious-looking people get dressed up and head out for religious ceremonies, you can be sure Satan is right there with plenty of them. All he needs to do is keep people working toward their own salvation--they'll never get there without Jesus, but if he can just keep them focused on themselves they'll never notice.

"For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve." 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Love Who?

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 11:00:02 GMT

Whenever I recommend that a young person be kind to someone who's treating them badly, I always get the same crazy look! It's as if they're saying (and often they ARE saying), "Kilby, you're crazy!" No doubt I must sound crazy, but the thought isn't original to me. The concept actually comes directly from the mouth of Jesus. Still, that's not the way the world operates today. Just yesterday I wasn't sure which way to turn at a stop sign and paused for a moment. Within the matter of about two seconds, the person behind me started freaking out on his horn and presenting me with some not so friendly hand signals. What's more, my son was in the car to witness it. Fortunately, what once would have been a great invitation for me to back over someone's car with my truck, is a whole new situation today! I just waved the angry motorist by. And... hopefully my son learned that Dad practices what he preaches. Jesus said, "Love your enemies." As crazy as it sounds, I've honestly learned that it's really the only way. People are always going to get on your nerves. As long as we're on this earth, there will be people who will treat us badly just because they feel the need. The way we respond is our choice, and as followers of Christ, we should choose to follow His example.

"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you." Jesus of Nazareth (Luke 6:27)

So... who is it who's treating you badly these days? Crazy or not, make a decision to forgive them right now. Then, begin a secret prayer campaign in their honor. Pray that God will bless them, and that they will know the joy you've found in Christ! You might be surprised that your heart is also changed.

Hallelujah!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Tame It!

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29

The Scriptures are full of references to the wild nature of our tongues. Within the span of a moment or two, we can bless someone with our words, and then rip someone else apart with the cutting edge of our tongues. My mother used to say, "What goes on in the heart will come out of the mouth in times of trouble." She was right. And until a few years ago, if you hit my thumb with a hammer you'd have gotten an earful for sure. As Christians, we are called to tame the untamable--to allow our mouths to be under the Lordship of Christ. Whether your struggle is foul language, dirty jokes, or just plain old meanness, if you call Jesus your Lord, He's calling you to let the change begin! This does not mean you cannot be funny, or that you have to run around speaking in Old English, but that you measure your words carefully. Make sure they are uplifting to others and thankful to God.

"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or course joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." Ephesians 5:4

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Righteous Freak!

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 11:00:01 GMT

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 28:20b)

Are you being mocked because of your faith in Christ? No one who truly gives their lives to Christ and walk in the light will be loved by the world. If you are very fortunate, you'll be surrounded by a few close brothers and sisters who will love you and pray for you, but love will not be given to you by those who love evil. Nobody who does wrong likes someone who bears witness to the Truth. Be strong my faithful friends, Christ's return is near, and all the nearer as we see the world start to crumble. Wars will be fought, struggles will increase, and persecution of the saints will soon become a sport. Hang tough to the end... you are not alone!

"Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous. Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you." 1 John 3:12-13

Pastor Jim Kilby

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We Saw It!

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 11:00:01 GMT

"God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact." Acts 2:32

Notice the use of the word, "fact." Speaking to thousands of people, the Apostle Peter boldly claimed the resurrection of Jesus as a fact because they had all seen it with their own eyes. It was a fact... and it still is a fact! Jesus blessed the disciples with the fact that they could see Him with their own eyes and then bear witness to Him. True Christians are no different. Sure, we may not see Him with our eyes, but we have evidence just the same. He gives His Spirit to all who call on His Name. As we become less interested in self and more interested in serving Him, the Spirit will bear witness to the "fact" that Jesus is alive! He's alive on the Throne of God... and He's alive in every one of His followers.

"When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?' Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Acts 2:37-39

Pastor Jim Kilby

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A Christmas "Thought" from 735 BC...

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 11:00:03 GMT

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.

And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be their peace." Micah 5:2-5

And peace to you my brothers and sisters. Peace to you as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior!

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Hey, Are You Dead?

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

The thing that really bothers me about my faith is when I find myself taking a step or two down the wrong road. Have I forgotten about the cross? Have I forgotten what God did to save me from the grips of the one I seem to be inching toward again? I don't think I've "forgotten," but maybe my eyes get refocused on "self" and thereby less focused on Jesus and what He would have me doing with my days. Either way, I'm not alone. I have an endless stream of Christians sitting in my office and confessing sins they once thought they'd left in the dust! Friends, we are sinners--through and through! The problem is much more persistent than we believe, and even a few moments of unfocused thought can get us back into serious trouble. The problem is that we have not truly died to sin. Until we do, we'll continue to struggle with our own flesh. Focus on Jesus! The death He died gives us the chance to die to sin. He's our only hope!

"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." 1 Peter 2:24

Pastor Jim Kilby

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The Lord's Discipline

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

I often wonder why bad things happen to good people. Although none of us will always know the reason God allows difficulty into our lives, I do know that He often lets things happen to wayward Christians to call them back from their sinful ways. The Lord loves us so much that He is not willing that we should continue to hurt ourselves, much less defame His holy name. Many times in the Scriptures God proves His love through the way He is steadfast in His promise to discipline us. Like a good parent, He continues to teach and instruct us until we return to Him. For those who's souls have been purchased with the blood of Christ and later slip into sins they refuse to repent of, believe it or not, the Lord actually loves them enough to end their lives--sometimes saving them from themselves by bringing them home early.

"I gave you empty stomachs in every city and a lack of bread in every town, yet you have not returned to me," declares the Lord... "People staggered from town to town for water but did not get enough to drink, yet you have not returned to me," declares the Lord.... "I sent plagues among you as I did to Egypt"... "You were like a burning stick snatched from the fire, yet you have not returned to me," declares the Lord. "Therefore this is what I will do to you... prepare to meet your God, O Israel." Amos 4:6-12

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Temper, Temper!

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." James 1:19

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 01:16:51 GMT

"I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

Friends,

Greetings! I would love to handwrite each of you a note to say thank you for taking time to read these letters, for your prayers, and for your donations. Every single one of those actions in this past year (and all the years prior!) means so very much to us. I am legitimately filled with joy when I think of all the people who work together to make Harvest a possibility.

I was so excited this year to see Harvest Helps officially launch. This program gives us a fantastic opportunity to meet needs in our local community that may not warrant long term mentoring like Harvest House. So far, Harvest has helped furnish an apartment for a young woman coming out of an abusive situation. We also helped a family of five with groceries for a month and a family with gas money in an emergency. We also connected various people with job resources, information about community programs, and answered some housing questions. I assume as time goes by the requests will increase as the community learns the program is available, but I am thrilled each time the Lord meets those needs.

Personally, Aaron and I are amazed at how quickly our brood has grown (eight kids now if you lost count!). Our oldest just turned 14 and our youngest is three. If you had told me 15 years ago this is where we would be, I probably would have laughed at you…but look at what God has done!

Thank you again for your continued, generous, and overflowing support this past year. I cannot wait to see what 2024 holds!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Busy Busy Busy

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 01:12:58 GMT

"Behold! The Lam b of God who takes away the sin of the world!" John, The Baptist (John 1:29, NKJV)

Friends,

As we pass the Thanksgiving holiday and head into December and all the busyness that is our modern Christmas season, I want to remind you of something quite powerful. The Lord wasn’t more than a few pages into giving us the account of Creation in Genesis before He did something remarkable. He set aside a specific day as “holy”. Specifically, a Sabbath. Holy, meant a “day set apart” from the other ones. Aka, a “holy day” or in today’s vernacular, a “holiday”. During the rush-rush-rush of December, if we’re not really mindful about it, my family we can begin to not have anything being set aside as “holy”. It doesn’t help that December also has four family birthday celebrations and the end of the tax year for our businesses. Like everyone, we also have many get-together’s for family, business and church/ministry. That’s in addition to figuring out what to buy or make for ten children, eleven grandchildren, their wives/husbands, etc., etc., etc. So, if your family is anything like mine, there’s MUCH to do that has LITTLE to do with a “holy day” set apart to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

So what are we to do after we have this realization? Work faster? Work harder? Organize better? I try to point myself back to the original command to “work six days, and then celebrate a Sabbath” to find my answer. The Lord doesn’t say, “if you’re all done with your work then take a Sabbath.” And He doesn’t say, “If you can fit it in your busy schedule then take a Sabbath.” He just says, “DO IT!” And so, maybe a reminder that this “holiday” is a Sabbath to “Behold, the Lamb that takes away the sin of the world” will help. Without Him, we have absolutely nothing, and nothing to give.

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim Kilby

Comfort?

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Does God promise to comfort us? Many people would immediately answer, "yes," to such a question, but I believe that answer is often premature. But, before you start planning your letter to me, let me explain. There is a process that God calls us to undergo in order for us to be comforted, and He gives us His Holy Spirit to help with the process. The promise to comfort us is conditional--it depends on us first examining ourselves and coming clean with God. Just imagine for a moment that God allowed us all to be completely and totally comforted from all that hinders us. Would anyone ever repent? Would anyone ever seek God? In fact, I believe it is often not God, but Satan that comforts us (at least temporarily), so that we will not seek repentance and forgiveness, and then receive genuine forgiveness and comfort from the Lord. I've taken this Scripture from the King James Version of the Bible because it renders the Greek word, "comforter" as opposed to "Counselor" in some versions. Notice how convicting us of our sins appears to be the first duty of the Holy Spirit.

"Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:" John 16:7-8 (KJV)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Take Care!

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Happy Thanksgiving!

As my family and I celebrate Thanksgiving this year, we give thanks for all of you, and what God has chosen to do through this ministry. May we all continue to be grateful for His awesome grace!

THANKSGIVING

T ake heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. (Colossians 4:17)

H aving therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of god. (2 Corinthians 7:1)

N eglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. (1 Timothy 4:14)

K eep ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. (Jude 21)

S anctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15)

G od is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. (Hebrews 6:10)

I f ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7)

I n him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. (Acts 17:28)

N ow ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. (John 15:3)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Faith?

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:00:01 GMT

I believe in my grandmother. What's more, I believe that my grandmother has a genuine and awesome faith in Christ. She certainly believed long before I was ever born, and prayed for me and even pointed me in the way of the Truth. Still, for me to believe in my grandmother, or even in my grandmother's faith is not enough. Those around us who point us to the Truth are merely servants of the Most High God. Our pastors, parents, and other ministers and servants deserve our respect, our appreciation and our prayers, but faith in them will do us no good. We must have a personal faith in Jesus Christ, and trust in Him alone. Even giants of the faith like John the Baptist, and apostles like Paul and Peter were only servants, and they said as much quite frequently. Follow those who are walking in the faith, but put your faith only in the One who can save your soul!

"While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples and asked the, 'Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?' They answered, 'No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.' So Paul asked, 'Then what baptism did you receive?' 'John's baptism,' they replied. Paul said, 'John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.' On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus." Acts 19:1-5

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Just Stop It!

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 11:00:05 GMT

If I were to start a preaching circuit telling anyone who would listen that God doesn't mind if they live anyway they want, I'd be one of the most popular speakers in my town. Would there be scores of churches beating down my door to speak to their congregations if I would simply stop my endless chatter about a child being better off if they are raised in a loving Christian home with both a mother and a father? Would I be beckoned to speak at pro-choice rallies nationwide if I let it be known that as a man of God, I was convinced that our heavenly Father does not consider abortion murder? If I were looking for fame, I believe I would immediately gain much notoriety if I would just deny the Name of Jesus Christ, and stop preaching the Truth that He brought us through His Grace. If you needed any evidence that we live in a dreadfully lost world, the answers to those questions is the best evidence I have.

"They say to the seers, 'See no more visions!' and to the prophets, 'Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things, prophecy illusions. Leave this way, get off this path, and stop confronting us with the Holy One of Israel!" Isaiah 30:10-11

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Who Says?

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Now Appearing!

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Jesus!

(Son of the Living God)

Featuring: An All Star Cast. Jesus (as Himself), and all the Saints and Apostles singing His praise.

Definitely Two Thumbs Up!

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope--the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2:11-14

Pastor Jim Kilby

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What a Heavenly Body!

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 11:00:02 GMT

I feel like I'm in pretty good physical condition, for the aging man I am! And although there are things about my appearance I would change, I'm fairly happy with the way I look. My suspicion is that no matter what shape or condition people are in, no one has ever been 100% satisfied with his body. That would include body builders, supermodels, and the like. There's always something people are unhappy with, and no doubt plastic surgery, gym memberships, and running shoes will be in high demand for a long time. Likewise, there are no doubt parts about the church (AKA the Body of Christ) that Jesus would have changed. He's surely working in every member of His Body who are willing to bring about those positive changes. Still, as long as we are sinful creatures, the Body of Christ will be far from perfect. Fortunately, one day all believers will receive a new and perfect body, and the Church will be made perfect as well. Oh for the day that Jesus comes again!

"After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church--for we are members of his body." Ephesians 4:29-30

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Fragrance of Life!

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In some senses, the ministry I run may put me in a similar path as the one you're in. And before you tell me you're not in ministry, you ARE in ministry if you are a Christian. Some ministries are more formal than others, but all Christians are ministers. But, to get back to my point, there are generally going to be two groups of people both you and I hang with. I meet with a group of believers at least a few days a week, and generally, they're the most uplifting and helpful group of folks in the world. No doubt there are always going to be a few personality conflicts and the like, but hanging with believers can do a lot for our faith. On the other days of the week, I run a ministry to teenagers, the vast majority of which are not Christian. Most of them could also care less about anything religious! Although the young people are generally accepting of our ministry because we give them a fun place to go, I have been cussed out many a time by drunk parents coming to pick up a kids, and by neighbors who don't like the fact that we have hundreds of teens in our ministry building making noise. Either way, and in every case, I still try to shine the light of Christ. No matter whether you're being loved on by your Christian brothers and sisters, or hated for your faith by unbelievers, you still have the responsibility to shine the Light you were so freely given. Our "aroma" to either group has a lot more to do with who we call Lord than it does with us personally.

"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life." 2 Corinthians 2:15-16a

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Come Forward!

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 11:00:05 GMT

Exactly what distance do you like to remain from God? Some will say they want to know Him and draw near to Him, but I believe that few ever really do either. Why such a bold statement? Because the Scriptures show us just how rare such a soul is--one that truly is broken and desires to know nothing but what the Lord reveals. So exactly what distance do you like to remain from God? Are you one of the rare breed who is truly after God's own heart, or do you keep Him at arms length, or maybe even farther away? Either way, God will never come any closer than you allow Him. Is today the day you drop your pride and embrace Him, or would you care to keep a "safe" distance between you?

"Moses said to the people, 'Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.' [but] The people remained at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was." Exodus 20:20-21

Pastor Jim Kilby

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Sprouts?

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 20:40:54 GMT

"I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. (1 Corinthians 3:6-7)

Friends,

This past weekend I was reminded by a wise woman, seeds don’t produce fruit right after you plant them. This seems logical for anyone who has ever planted a garden or some flower seeds. Even school children putting beans in cups know sprouting takes days and fruit takes much longer.

I wrote before about a young woman who yelled at me because in her mind, I expected her to change and be perfect immediately. It wasn’t true. But looking back, I must admit, I probably was expecting it to be a much quicker process.

We had known her for years. Aaron had led her to the Lord. We spoke truth and life to her, prayed for her, and loved on her. But God right? It felt like the seed was just content sitting in the ground, maybe showing some potential for growth but then, still nothing.

Eventually, this young lady’s situation moved her away from us and God graciously gave her more mentors, more truth spoken to her, more prayers, and more love. I am forever grateful to those people. We may have planted the seed, they may have watered it, but God made it grow (and in His own, very unrushed timing!).

I am forever thankful for the young lady she is today. I am delighted to call her a friend. She is an excellent reminder to keep doing the right things as long as God calls us to it!

Blessings,

Elizabeth Kilby

Wars and Rumors of Wars

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 20:38:00 GMT

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 10:00:01 GMT

"Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp." Psalm 149:3

Many traditional churches outlaw any form of dancing. My church doesn't say much about it one way or the other, but clearly there are people who are uncomfortable with any form of dancing, and that includes dancing as you worship and praise God. Although I completely agree that dancing in many forms has become nothing more than erotic sex with clothes on, dancing (even that done at a celebration or a party) is not specifically condemned in the Scriptures. In fact, just the opposite. Jesus himself described a party where a "lost son returns" as having "music and dancing." As I've encouraged you in many writings, do not let yourself become enslaved by needless rules and regulations. Rather, love the Lord with all your heart, soul and strength... and then praise Him with everything you do. If that includes dancing, so be it! Just remember that keeping your body and mind pure are also part of loving and worshiping God.

"Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing." Jesus of Nazareth (Luke 15:25)

Pastor Jim Kilby

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That's Not Fair!

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT

One of the most common arguments non-Christians pose to believers is their disapproval of the Scriptures that speak of God sentencing souls to hell. Most people find the concept unbelievable, and possibly even cruel. The problem with this type of thinking is that it assumes some things that should not be assumed. First, it assumes that God owes us something. The truth is that God owes us nothing, and that everything we have came from Him in the first place. This thinking also assumes that we are all good, when in fact, we are all evil. Apart from God's presence in this world, we would have long since destroyed everything. The question is really not, "Would God send someone to hell?" but rather, "Why would God sacrifice His Only Son to save any of us from such a destiny?" Souls do not go to hell because they accept Satan--they already belong to Satan. They go to hell simply because they deny God--the greatest sin of all.

"They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved." 2 Thessalonians 2:10b

Pastor Jim Kilby

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You're Blind!

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Have you ever been blinded by love? I have! It's amazing just how focused a person can become when they're infatuated with someone else. Once... okay, several times, when I was a teenager, I'd fall madly in love with someone. Many times they didn't even know I was alive! If I found out they liked me too, I'd often stop hanging with my friends and doing things I'd previously enjoyed, bent on spending all of my time with my newfound love. On at least a few occasions, I can remember friends calling me up and asking what the heck was wrong with me! "Are you blind?" they'd scream. And I guess I was blind... at least for a while. But I didn't want their help... and I definitely didn't like their approach! Now, imagine that instead of "love" making you blind, it's sin--or maybe several different sins. How blind do you think you could become if several sinful things you've been secretly pondering overwhelmed you to the point that you were somehow blind to the Truth. Imagine that you quietly tiptoed toward one sin, and before you knew it you were diving head first into even worse ones. Then, no matter where you looked, you couldn't see the Truth. Finally, when the sin wasn't so fun anymore (as ALL sin sooner or later becomes), it was too late for you. You'd been blind so long the Truth was out of reach. That, my friends, is the essence of being "lost in sin." This is the condition the devil so eagerly wants us to fall into. And, even for Christians, it's a condition we're often much too interested in entertaining. For just a moment, ponder these divine words penned by the Apostle Peter:

"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. or if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins." 2 Peter 1:309

As we look out into the world and see others lost in sin, it's often easy for us to see where THEY went wrong. From our vantage point, we can take two much different approaches... all too often, we pridefully say, "They got what they asked for," instead of, "Hey, can I help you find your way?" What approach would you prefer if it was YOU who were blinded to the Truth?

Pastor Jim Kilby

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You're So Far Away!

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Just like the popular line in and old song says, "You're so far away!" is often the song our hearts sing to God. People constantly ask me, "Where is God when I'm hurting?" or "Where is God in the face of all this tragedy?" The answer is always the same. Whenever we feel like God is far away, it's because we have moved away from Him. God is always there, anxiously awaiting your heart's return... the real question is where have YOU been?

"... the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him." Deuteronomy 4:7b

Pastor Jim Kilby

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