7734 Paw Paw Ave. Watervliet, Mi. 49098

Phone (269) 463-8280
Fax (269) 463-8315
email: watervlietfmc@juno.com

freemethodistchurch.org

Often times we do just enough to get by, we do the homework that is assigned to us, but not a page more. We run the part at the factory we are told to, but nothing else.  We study the Bible study pages for a given lesson and then stop.  Or we clean our room, but not an inch more. Pastor Brian what are you getting at?  Doesn't everyone, isn't that the way it’s supposed to be? 

          The problem is we do the same thing when it comes to God and the things of God.  We do just enough to keep the Ten Commandments and a few other things that Jesus pointed out in the New Testament.  But what about taking it to the next level?  What about going the extra mile?  What about maturing in the things of God?

          What about going deeper in the Word?  What about going above and beyond what we see as the normal?  Or what the world say's is acceptable... You might be asking why?  Let me help you by going to the Word:1 Peter 1:15 NIV  "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do."   You see God's Word calls us to be holy in ALL, Everything we do.  What kind of a witness are you walking out of the video store with an X-rated movie?  What kind of a witness are you to your neighbor as you scream at your spouse, kids, referees or your dog? 

          Think about how the decisions you make will affect others, will me doing this or that cause my brother / neighbor to stumble?  Will this decision I am making help my neighbor get closer to God or will my decision drive them farther away?  Some would say "who cares about them?"  Let me remind you what it says in Romans 14:12-13 NIV “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.  Therefore let us stop passing   judgment on one another.  Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way."

          One thing I have done when it comes to questionable activities or things that are not clearly spelled out in the Bible for me is to PRAY...  let me give you a few examples: Lord is this movie Ok for me to be watching or will I be ashamed if someone from church walked in while I was watching it? Is this what I want to be caught doing when Christ returns?  Will this decision bring Honor and Glory to God?  Will this decision show me to be Holy in God's eyes like He has called me to be?  OR is it just a selfish decision to meet my desires and I don't care what anyone else thinks? Lord help us to be holy in all we do, not causing our neighbor to stumble, knowing each of us will give an account to God someday.... 

From Pastor Matt

The youth group just returned from an awesome youth conference in Lansing Michigan. It was called “Acquire the Fire” and this year’s theme was Normal is not Enough.  We took 11 teens; this is the most we have ever taken with us. I saw growth both spiritually and socially within the group because of it.  The     conference challenged us all to prove that we are not just normal Christians.  We need to be different in the world. To do this our theme for the youth group this summer will be Prove Yourself. Prove yourself to the world that your faith is not normal. Our faith is going to be unforgettable by all when they see our actions, words, and hearts on fire for Christ.

Let’s Go Canoeing!

Our annual canoe trip down Paw Paw River will take place on Sunday, August 19th at 4:00pm. More information on the price of the canoes will be available as the date draws near. This is a fun way to enjoy the beauty of nature that the Lord has blessed us with.

Family Camp at Somerset

 Family Camp and Conference at Somerset Beach will be July 14th through the 22nd. If you wish to camp at the campgrounds it is important to call now to make a reservation at 517-688-3783 for a camp site

Baptism on Paw Paw River

 There will be a baptism class offered on Sunday August 5th during the Sunday School time slot. If you wish to be baptized or know of someone who does please mark this date on your calendar and plan to attend. Baptism will take place on Sunday, August 19th at 6:00 at Ma and Pa’s Campground..

Women’s Ministry Opportunities

 Women's ministry is offering two opportunities for a new bible study starting this month. The classes begin Wednesday, May 9th at 12:30 and again on Wednesday, May 23rd at 6:30pm. It is not too late to sign up for either class. The study is called “ Jonah, Navigating a Life Interrupted” by Pricilla Shirer. She is so dynamic and her book is even better. I’ve learned that interrupted lives are probably an accurate descriptor of everyone. No matter how deliberate we plan, something always comes along and messes with OUR plans. Yep, interruptions come in all sizes and shapes. No matter how hard I try to avoid them, they are there, lying in wait for me and sending me into a tail spin most times, interruptions are all over the place. I have to admit there have been a number of times when I just wanted to throw up my hands and run just like Jonah but I learned something very valuable -these are NOT interruptions, they ARE divine interventions. God is sending me somewhere I don’t necessarily want to be so that I will turn to Him and allow Him to control my life. Have you ever said “I want to serve God as long as it is convenient.” “I desire to do His will until it is a tad uncomfortable,” “I want to hear His word as long as its message is one I’m supposed to pass on to someone else.” So let me ask you- have your life plans ever been interrupted? Have you ever run from God? If you answered yes to either of both of these questions guess what? You are a Jonah too. I hope you join the journey with us.