The Blind Leading the Blind

In our current culture, those who don't know Christ wander through life with no moral compass. Proverbs 21:2 states, "Every way of a man is right in his own eyes." As mentioned in last Sunday's message, their behavior falls in line with the second law of Thermodynamics. This simply means everything tends to wear out, run down, or stop working. Things move from order to disorder and from organization to chaos.

People with a great deal of life experience can look back and compare the culture today with that of 50 or 60 years ago. The difference is significant. The behaviors and values of people today would have been appalling years ago.

The culture is blind to the values of God. They walk to the drumbeat of a different god. The pathway leads to moral decay. They are blind to the truth of God.

That is sad. However, something that is equally disturbing, maybe even worse, is that Christians follow the culture at a distance. They seem to be blind to the desires of God. The truth is that the behavior of many Christians today would surpass the behavior of the culture 100 years ago.

Who is leading? It appears that the blind culture is leading many of the Christian culture. Both could be called blind to the clearly marked path God lays out in the Bible.

We need to have our eyes open to influences lest we, too, become blind.

Pastor Crosby

Reducing Regret

It is easy for believers to forget that God does not overlook our actions. We often attempt to deceive our mate if we do something we would rather they not know. There are times when we act one way at work and another way at home.

When Cain tried to fool God after he killed Abel, his countenance betrayed his actions. The Bible is very clear that each one of us will give an account of our actions when we stand before Christ (Ecc. 12:4, II Cor. 5:10). We can't fool God. That thought should be branded in our minds.

Take the time to read Psalms 139:7-12. The regret that we would like to avoid will come at the judgment. When God reviews our actions on earth, I believe regret will haunt us.

What should we do to reduce regret? The Bible says, "Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin" James 4:17. As believers, the Holy Spirit lives in us. He will stir our conscience to do the right thing and to avoid displeasing behavior. That's when we know we should do right.

If we listen, obey, and change the wrong and do the right, even if it is inconvenient, we will reduce regret at the final judgment. Instead of regret, we will receive reward.

Pastor Crosby

Frog in the Kettle

Several years ago a man named George Barna wrote a book titled, Frog in a Kettle. The content dealt with placing a frog in a kettle of warm water in a stove. The burner under the kettle of water was set on a low temperature. Slowly the water would become hotter and hotter. Eventually the water would come to a boil, and the frog would be cooked. It happened so slowly that the frog didn't realize what was occurring to him.

If you think about it, the point is obvious. We as humans can become lost or destroyed when we get into the wrong place. Slowly we become used to neglecting beneficial behaviors or habits. We find ourselves enjoying an adventure into something that is somewhat beyond what we should be doing. We begin to let some helpful habits slide. These small initial steps seem innocent at first, but they are small steps on a journey that can lead us into territories that we, at one time, knew were not right.

The temptations to take such journeys appeal to all of us. The possibility of allowing ourselves to take a few liberties from the path that is pleasing to our Master often carries some initial appeal. Paul made some interesting comments about the battles of life that challenge us from doing the right thing.  Romans 7:15 "I don't understand why I act the way I do. I don't do the good I want to do, and I do the evil I hate."

Life that is successful and pleasing to God requires self discipline. We need to constantly examine ourselves and/or get an accountability partner to help us see whether or not we are in a kettle of hot water. Determine from this day forward to avoid being a "Frog in the Kettle." Ask yourself many times each day, What would Jesus do in this situation?

Pastor Dick Crosby

A Winner's Discipline

Many people are watching the 2014 Winter Olympics. They see the results of long months, in some cases years, of training as athletes. These participants undergo a disciplined routine in hopes of winning a medal. They have disciplined themselves to eat right, work tirelessly, and to hone their skills to be the world's best. Everyone admires their resolve and willpower.

Is there a lesson to us as spectators? I think so. The drive to be successful grips many people, but few sustain that drive. Often people wish they had the discipline to be successful in business, to lose weight, or get into good physical shape. Many people succeed in those quests, but most make some vital mistakes in stretching for their goals for greatness.

How many sacrifice one area of their life to gain success in another area? Quite often the drive to make more money or to look physically better leads to an unbalanced commitment in another area of life. That objective for success may ignore other areas of importance.

Some areas that suffer are relationships. Marriage relationships often suffer when a person centers their attention on only one goal. Other times the relationship between parents and their children take a back seat. The more significant damage centers on their spiritual relationship. An obsession for a personal goal can pull one's life purpose into one area at the neglect of others. Often that neglected party is God. Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

A winner's discipline looks toward God first. Then they fit their other goals to be in concert with God. No one is a winner who places any goal over God.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Some Change is Too Easy

A legitimate reason to miss going to the gym for exercise is understandable. Yet, is it not strange that the one missed workout makes missing another one much easier? It is easy to delay going to the dentist, postponing it to another day. Postponing it a second time is easier than the first postponement. No matter what the situation, the habit of procrastination is extremely easy. It simply takes one delay to begin the habit of changing a discipline.

I recently read that the average Christian in America now attends church one per month. It seems the average is becoming sub-par. The Bible says that this will happen in the last days in II Timothy 3.

In a competitive nation such as America, it is puzzling that so many people have little urge to be the best they can be in their faith. I pray that the people of Hannaford are determined to be better than the average Christian. Let's set this goal, not simply for pride or ego, but because we want to please the soon-coming Jesus.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Christmas Eve

Before you get to the food, gifts, and celebrating that is part of Christmas, don't forget one thing. Worship is the core of Christmas; the central character is Christ.

To help all of us worship Christ, which is the true meaning of Christmas, Hannaford will conduct two Christmas Eve services. The services are scheduled for 4:00 and 5:15 pm on December 24. These candlelight services will direct all of our attention to Christ and afford us the opportunity to truly worship Him. We will do this before the food, gifts, and family celebrating.

Don't miss this special time to truly invest your hearts in the Reason for the Season. Bring your entire family and friends on Christmas Eve, 4:00 or 5:15 pm, for a time for Christ.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Let's Fellowship

If you are not in a home group, you are encouraged to join one. I have several new groups who need people. People who would like to host a home group would be welcomed with help from me to start one. You could also expect help with details of what to do and people for your group.

Home groups provide a great opportunity to be encouraged, supported, and strengthened spiritually. We all face tough times. A home group holds the potential to provide the needed support for you. Be intentional and connect with a home group.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Let's Pray

The purpose statement of Hannaford is Connecting people with God and each other. It is critical that we remain focused and steadfast on fulfilling this purpose as best we can. In connecting people with God, one key ingredient is prayer. We can infuse all the human effort possible and miss our objective. However, if we put our shoulder to the wheel and put a priority on prayer, we can achieve something wonderful for God.

I encourage all of you to join us each Sunday morning in the Fellowship Room at 8:30 am for prayer. This group prayer meeting is led by the elders and is for everyone in the church. This is a huge benefit for the morning service. Collectively we call on God to bless the services of the day. Won't you come and help us connect people with God through the morning services?

Pastor Dick Crosby

More than the Average Joe

This Sunday, April 14, we begin a new series of messages - nine in all - on the Old Testament man, Joseph. It is a series that Americans and Hannaford people need to hear.

In America, we used to hear phrases like be the best you can be. However, why strive for more or better; the government will take care of you. However, those are rare today. There seems to be a move toward why strive for more or better; the government will take care of you.

We need to obey the Bible which says I can do all things through Christ or whatever you put your head to do, do it with all your might.

Joseph was a man who excelled in his walk with God and in his daily occupation. He was not your Average Joe which is the theme of the next messages.

This Sunday the topic is on The Reward of Revenge. That reward is not what most people think it is. You can use this message in the days to come when you are mistreated. Come and learn how God can help and bless you through these trials. Learn how to be more than the Average Joe.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Living Beyond...

At Hannaford we are in a seven week series entitled, Living Beyond... People have been challenged by what the first church did in comparison to what Hannaford is doing. We do some things in a similar form, but we have changed from that church's approach in other areas. Is that good or bad? You need to hear the series to find the answer.

This Sunday's message is Living Beyond Isolation. America, believe it or not, is filled with many lonely people. Churches have lonely people in them. Hannaford has people attending that are lonely. What are the dangers of loneliness, and how can those dangers be eradicated? This is a message you need to hear—if not for your benefit, then to be armed with the information to help the lonely people you meet.

I look forward to seeing you this coming Sunday. There is no better place to be on Sunday than in God's house—especially during these tumultuous days.

Pastor Crosby

After a month of not preaching—a month that allows a change of pace—I am back. Being back is a good thing; it is where I belong and feel at home.

This Sunday I intend to preach a message on Rabbit Trails. It touches a subject that is really important to all of us. Sunday is God's day. I hope you join us for worship of God; honoring God is vital. God can be honored in many different ways and at many different locations; but how much more fulfilling it is, as believers, to gather together in our house of worship (Hebrews 10:24-25). I pray I will see you this Sunday.

What's on My Mind?

In May Carol and I were in Chicago for a conference. One evening we ate dinner in the Hard Rock Cafe. The food is usually very good. The constant music being played in concert with the videos caused me to feel uncomfortable.

Shortly after we were in the auditorium of Moody Bible Institute. We found ourselves listening to over 1,000 men singing praises to God. My spirit was at home!

In July Carol and I were with a group of people celebrating the birthday of one person. Everyone was enjoying themselves eating, drinking, and talking. There was a lot of beer and constant music that the world enjoys. After we left, Carol played a CD of a men's quartet singing Christian music. Immediately our spirits were at ease and uplifted.
 

If you are a believer, is your appetite directed toward the verbal and musical messages of this world or of messages to praise God? The choice speaks volumes about your current relationship with the God who created and saved you. Beware of the kinds of appetites you develop.

What is Ahead?

There are at least two key activities coming soon. On the late afternoon of August 26, we will host an outreach event at Hannaford. You will not want to miss it.

On September 24 & 25, we host our annual Pastors' Conference. Pastors from Montana and other states are invited as well as our own congregation. It is always a great time.

Pastor Dick Crosby

What is on the horizon?

During the month of July, an opportunity is given to allow the church to hear other voices from the pulpit. Each person does a great job and brings a different perspective and delivery.

This Sunday, Mike Pouliot from BattleZone ministries, will be preaching. Mike is a native of Helena who now ministers out of California. You will thoroughly enjoy his message and ministry presentation.

What is on my agenda?

One project that is on my agenda for July is further progress on our outreach ministry. The task of effective follow-up and discipleship ministry is a sizeable assignment. I hope you will pray for me as I make progress in this area. The reaching of people for Christ is most urgent.

On Easter many people made the decision to accept Jesus as their Savior. A note of encouragement is that many of these people are attending church.

What is around the corner?

Pastor John and I are in the initial planning stages of presenting a series of messages on Last Things. This world is rapidly changing and moving toward what the Bible says will occur in the last days before Christ returns. Christians need to be aware of what is taking place, not for the satisfaction of curiosity, but for a deeper sense of the shortness of time on this earth.

Pastor Dick Crosby

What is on my heart?

From the perspective of many the future of America looks dire. The economy, terrorism, and a fluid morality that appears to be in decline are troublesome issues to me. However, there is one thing that we should fear even more; and I will share some of those thoughts this Sunday. With God's help I believe we can change course. The message is from Psalm 23 which I call Running on an Empty Tank Down the Wrong Road.

What is on the horizon?

• This coming Sunday is Graduation Sunday. We will honor those who have achieved various levels of academic success.
• Summer is nearly upon us, and many children's activities are scheduled at Hannaford. Check our website, www.hannaford.org, for details.
• It is a few months away, but the Fall Bible Conference is taking shape. This year the Network of Praise will co-sponsor the conference with us. It is hoped that this will expand our conference and in turn reach more pastors.

What is on my mind?

• A Purpose Plan was begun for our church some time back. On Easter Sunday we launched that plan and are currently developing it toward a more workable plan.
• Our next big step will be on August 26. The details will be shared in weeks to come. I have a heart to reach the lost of Helena, and together we can do that with the blessing of God.
• I am currently weighing other outreach opportunities. Pray for wisdom as I ponder these and other ideas to reach Helena. God may open a door or say, "Nice thought Dick, but not now."

Pastor Dick Crosby

I have been concerned about the nonbelievers in Helena and Hannaford's effort to reach them. A church needs to be proactive in trying to reach the lost. It needs to disciple, train, and prepare them to do the same. This is the great commission that we as believers have been given to reach, teach, and do it again repeatedly.

A plan of action designed to help our church achieve that goal has been developed. The pastors, elders, and deacons have read the plan and provided valuable input. However, I want a cross-section of people from the church to read through the plan and become involved in a study group to make it as inviting and Hannaford-friendly as possible.

I value the views of all ages. The cultural ideas of the younger generations are often different than mine. Input from those in their mid-thirties or below is also very important. Please consider helping; your perspective will be valued.

If you would like to join this study group, please contact me for a copy of the plan.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Opportunities and Challenges

The fall always generates new schedules largely because of school for the kids. Vacations are generally over, and the routine begins for all of us. This is usually the time when people get back into the routine of church. That also means the church begins many of its programs, such as AWANA, MOPS, and new Bible studies.

To help generate a renewed schedule in church, this Sunday is National Back to Church Sunday. We ask everyone to make every effort to be in church this Sunday, September 12, and bring a friend. This is a great opportunity.

The immediate challenge is one of a financial nature. We sent a notice to everyone asking for an extra financial gift by this coming Sunday. The spring and summer have been taxing on the church budget. Giving has been down to the point of putting some of our ministries in jeopardy.

We need your prayers and gifts concerning this matter. This is your church; we are frugal in the use of church finances. But in these desperate times in our world, the church needs to be stronger than ever in proclaiming the message of Jesus.

Please take advantage of the opportunities and help shoulder the challenges here at Hannaford Street.

Dick Crosby, Senior Pastor

I hope that everyone in America would understand that this nation was established primarily for religious freedom. We have been blessed for over 250 years to be able to worship without government interference. That liberty is celebrated on the fourth day of July each year.

This year that date falls on a Sunday. We will celebrate our freedom in a variety of ways.

• Morning begins at 9:00 a.m. with a full breakfast. People whose last names begin with A-M are asked to bring a fruit dish; N-Z are asked to bring a breakfast meat dish. In addition, pancakes will be served.
• Some patriotic venues will be presented to remember our
  great country.
• ONLY ONE service will be held this Sunday! Both first and second services will meet at 10:00 a.m.
• Scott Yebba will bring a message that promises to challenge.
• It should be a packed house with excitement and
  great preaching.

I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we celebrate our religious freedom. If you are unable to attend on Sunday, please plan to come Thursday evening at 6:30.
 
Dick Crosby