junk

I think I mentioned remodeling our house in previous posts. In fact, today, new carpet is being installed as I write. I love that new carpet smell. Kind of like that “new car” smell, although I have never bought a new car myself.

In preparation for the new flooring, we decided to get rid of our old, faded, definitely used furniture and replace it with new. I might have mentioned it before, but we left our good furniture in Louisville, KY, when the business venture there did not work out. We left a lot of household stuff there, but as it turned out, we helped several new families to America (legally) and only brought what would fit in their suitcases.

So I had ordered a “bulk” pick-up from our city and started hauling items to the curb. I wound up putting it all outside too early, but it was supposed to rain in a few days, and I wanted whoever might need it to get anything they wanted from the pile of our discarded items.

About 4 PM that same day, the doorbell rang. An older woman asked me if she could have anything out there. I told her, “Of course. Help yourself, and it’s all free.” She started smiling big, turned to her daughter, and “signed” the good news. Her daughter is hearing-impaired.

As we went out to look at the items, the mother explained to me that her daughter bought the house a few doors down from us, but didn’t have the money to furnish it. So they were happy to take the chairs, end tables, and the sofa. I asked the mother, “What else does she need?” As it turned out, we were able to give her a platform for a queen-size bed, a desk, a small chest of drawers, drapes, a lamp, a few other items, and an older 32” flat screen TV. The family seemed really excited about receiving the TV.

That night, April and I shared how we were so happy that the items were taken and not simply going to the dump. We also invited the family to attend our church, which is about a block away. The church has sign language interpreters during the morning service.

The next day, I was reflecting on the event from the previous day and its timing. I was so excited about how God orchestrated it and prompted me to set the items out early before the bulk item pick-up date and before the rain. He is so amazing, how he can lead us and guide us and then use us to accomplish his will.

January 10th, 2021
by Amy Smalley

Isaiah 45:3 KJV
And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel.

The old adage says, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. We see that with clothing, furniture, electronics; but the same is true for us.

When we are out in sin, getting caught in the bondages of this world: pornography, fornication, drugs, alcohol; we are living a filthy life. We are “trash,” but God said He can make all things new (2 Cor. 5:17).

He can turn us from trash into treasure. He can free us from the traps and bonds Satan has used to ensnare us. If we simply ask Jesus into our hearts and repent of our sins, He can make us NEW!

Just as a good wife to her husband, to God we are more precious than rubies (Prov. 31:10). We are HIS treasure. Don’t let Satan tell you otherwise.

Corresponding Sermon: Brian Fulton 1/10/2021 AM

Do you easily discard things? Do you ever feel as though you have been discarded? In America, many things are thrown out without a second thought. We even have a phrase here of, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” Some people have even started making a living by going around and collecting items that have been placed by the curb. They see that those items still have value. They will take them to a shop, clean them up and resell them.

There can be lots of good reasons to throw something out. It could truly be trash, or something that no longer fits, or an item that is no longer needed, or wanted. And instead of taking the time to find that item a new home it is simply discarded.

But what if the item no longer wanted is a person? “This isn’t working out. I want a divorce.” It seems these days that relationships are too easily discarded. Instead of staying together and lovingly trying to find the real root of the problem(s) people just give up. I suppose “working” on a marriage is too difficult or time consuming to some. The issue could be this; one partner doesn’t see the value of the other. That’s sad.

Every person has value. Yes, it can be difficult to see at times, but it is there. If you don’t see it then ask God to help you see it. I have a relative who is so hateful and mean to others. I admit I struggle to see their value, but I know it is there. I do know they help out financially a young family, so maybe that is it.

When Jesus Christ walked the face of the earth the religious leaders of that day wanted to discard him. Why? He spoke of love, he introduced God, he healed the sick, and not only taught, but demonstrated a better way to live life. When he grew in popularity they were “afraid” he would run them out of power and control of the masses. So they schemed to discard of him. Of course we know from the Bible that He got the last word. By showing them that even though they did all within their power, God’s power is greater and he arose from the dead three days after they killed him. They failed to see his value, or perhaps didn’t want to.

If you are feeling discarded today know this; you have value. God has placed something inside of you that only you can give away for free in your own unique way. Don’t believe those who have their own issues to overcome who show you hate, and please stop believing the lies of the devil! He will put thoughts in your head that could cause you to discard your own life. Don’t! If there is no one else around who can see your value know that God does, because He loves you and placed inside you a gift, a treasure, a heart of love to give away.

Jesus heard them and answered, “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick. I have not come to call respectable people, but outcasts.” Mark 2:17 (GNT)

brady, mark a.

Words to inspire you

The Discarded Masterpiece

Discarded

Jesus heard them and answered, “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick. I have not come to call respectable people, but outcasts.” Mark 2:17 (GNT)