But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. (Matthew 20:25-26)
“Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men” (Rom 12:17-18)
A controlling person often exhibits behaviors aimed at dominating others, maintaining power, or ensuring situations unfold according to their preferences. These characteristics can manifest in various contexts, such as relationships, workplaces, or social interactions. Here are some common traits:
Emotional Characteristics
• Manipulative: Uses guilt, fear, or flattery to influence others' decisions or actions.
• Insecure: Struggles with self-esteem issues and seeks control to compensate.
• Fearful of Uncertainty: Has difficulty dealing with situations they cannot predict or influence.
Interpersonal Characteristics
• Isolating Others: Discourages or sabotages relationships with friends or family to maintain control.
• Possessive: Displays jealousy or acts territorial over people or resources.
• Conditional Affection: Offers approval or love only when others conform to their expectations.
• Punitive: Uses punishment or withdrawal of support as a means to enforce compliance.
Communication Characteristics
• Gaslighting: Distorts reality to make others doubt their perceptions or feelings.
• Withholding Information: Controls narratives by selectively sharing or hiding information.
Photo From a Trip to Nice, France in 2022
Thanksgiving is foundational. One of my sayings is this: "Every good thing happens on a Firm Foundation."
David wrote in psalm 100:4, "Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise. Be thankful to him and bless his name."
Giving thanks positions your heart, mind, and personality on the firm foundation of God's goodness and grace. The act of giving thanks clears the heart, settles the mind, and puts your emotions into balance.
For a believer, not giving thanks is injurious to your heart and mind:
Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 1:21, For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Think of giving thanks as a good rain that washes dust and dirt off of your sidewalk and driveway. More simply, think of giving thanks as a car wash. The accumulation of dirt and debris hides the true appearance of your car, or impedes your vision, when it covers a windshield.
However you choose to think about the importance of Thanksgiving, know that a lack of giving thanks to God introduces empty thinking and allows foolishness to seem normal. As the Apostle Paul wrote, for someone to know God, but not glorify him as God, or give thanks, is taking divinity into one's own hands. If we don't think God is worthy of our thanks or our attention, then our focus is misplaced.
So enter into God's presence every day in worship and prayer. Refresh yourself in that cleansing and encouraging encounter with Christ.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
God Bless and Be Encouraged!
~ Pastor Bryan & Patricia Hudson
“The Power of Your Presence”
Proverbs 17:17, A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.
Listen to My Message From Sunday, November 24, 2024
"The Power of Today" Part Three:
Summary: "The Ministry of Presence" (Summary by OpenAI)
Pastor Bryan Hudson's message, "The Ministry of Presence" from part three of the series "The Power of Today," focuses on the importance of simply being present with others in their times of need. Drawing from scriptures like Colossians 3:15 and Proverbs 17:17, the sermon explores how the peace of God and the act of presence bring comfort, connection, and healing.
Key takeaways include:
1. Definition of the Ministry of Presence: It involves offering support through physical, emotional, and spiritual presence, rather than relying solely on words or actions.
2. Attributes of Presence: Active listening, nonverbal support, empathy, availability, and avoiding cliches or platitudes are essential for effective presence.
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is the "master of the ministry of presence," guiding believers in being present with others and sharing God's peace.
4. Job's Friends as an Example: Initially practicing the ministry of presence by sitting silently with Job, his friends later faltered due to fragility and discomfort, showing the importance of being prepared to support others.
5. Overcoming Comfort Zones: Leaving comfort zones enables growth, service, and alignment with God's purpose, exemplified by figures like Abraham and Jesus, who stepped out of comfort for a greater mission.
6. Adversity and Presence: True friends provide presence and support during adversity, as illustrated by a story where a friend jumps into a hole to guide another out.
The sermon concludes with an exhortation to embrace the ministry of presence, trust God's guidance, and develop the capacity to support others, reflecting Christ's love in action.
“Be the Light Others Need”
Isaiah 9:2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
