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The life of Joseph has always been one that stands out to most who have done any study of the Old Testament. He was the favorite in many respects of his father and the source of much jealousy from his brothers. They sold him at a young age to traders headed for Egypt and it was in that foreign land he would spend the rest of his days. His life was a bit like a good roller coaster, several peaks…

It is astounding how many people God will use to bless us in an incredible number of ways during a lifetime. The people who bless us seem to be remarkably diverse – they have different backgrounds, personalities, gifts, and are different ages. They have different skin tones and appearances. What they all have in common is that they blessed us at some point in our lives. Whether in great or small ways, these people invested in us, and our lives…

It really is that simple! We must not overcomplicate the desires of God when it comes to those who are in a right relationship with Him. Will you allow Paul to make four simple points that really sum up what those who belong to God will do. You can read it simply from your copy of God’s word in 1 Timothy 6:11-12. Oh yes, so much more could be said, but when the man of God is contrasted with the…

The Westside family mourns this week in the passing of a faithful brother, Jim Powell. In the leading of a public prayer, it was not uncommon for him to use the sentence used in the title of this article. He was thankful to have a God who would, “Say what He means and means what He says.” When he said it, the words might have brought a wry smile to your face, but the more thought that is given, it…

Our deepest sympathy is extended to Diane Powell and family in the passing of Jim last Sunday morning. Jim and Diane have faithfully worshiped and served at Westside for years and have been most appreciated for their sweet spirits and servants’ hearts. For years Jim served as one of our deacons and especially excelled in the area of benevolence.  A Visitation will be held at Nalley Pickle Welch Funeral Home in Midland this Thursday from 5-7 PM. The funeral service…

It is one of the simplest of all statements made in the New Testament. The words at the end of Mark 12:37, “And the common people heard Him gladly.” Jesus did not come to be heard by the elite, the rich, or the famous. Jesus came to be heard and listened to by the common. The gospel is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek (Romans 1:16). The…

This is a season in which many of us are growing flowers, vegetables and fruit. Out in the desert of west Texas where I live, this can be both delightful and challenging. We average only about 13 inches of rain per year and the scorching sun can easily burn tender plants. A significant amount of soil preparation often has to be done in order for many types of fruit and vegetables to survive.  A spiritual application to the question, “How’s…

Not all will recall the name of the woman who bore Aaron, Miriam, and Moses, but Jochebed is a mother for the ages. As we prepare to honor our mothers this week, consider three descriptions of this mother for ages and let us appreciate all mothers who strive to meet them.  A mother prepares for her children’s safety. Before the birth of Moses, the instruction was given for all newborn boys to be cast into the river (Exodus 1:22). The…

Everyone has priorities, values and ambition. The real question is, “In what and in whom have we placed them?” The answer really is not all that difficult. Self is either sovereign or the Savior is. When God and His will are NOT our greatest desire and pursuit, the Lord gets crowded out. It is so easy for OUR ego, OUR comfort, OUR status, OUR desires and OUR stuff to be the controlling interest of our lives.  Jesus, however, shatters such…

He was called to condemn, but in the end, he could only bless! Yes, the prophet of God was called to curse the people of God, to put an end the threat they posed to their enemy, but the prophet of God could only pronounce a blessing. We read the familiar account in Numbers 22-24. The prophet is named Balaam and he is called by the king of the Moabites, Balak, to pronounce a curse on God’s people. They were…

Or – How to Juggle Your Job, God-Time, Cooking, Cleaning, Teaching Your Kids & Refereeing During a Crisis  It may be just me (and I know it isn’t), but I’ve never prayed for my family more than during this COVID-19 Pandemic. Social distancing and so many working from home, not to mention those who have lost their jobs, have made this time especially stressful – and the stress has probably been exhibited at your house. If it hasn’t, you’re either…

I wonder what the Lord would offer by way of advice for His people through the days we are experiencing. Consider the parable in Luke 10 for some good instruction from the Master. The parable is familiar, but if you need some refreshment, please read Luke 10:25-27. Some observations to be made:  Don’t be a robber – The robbers stripped him of his clothing, beat him, and left him half-dead. We have certainly seen our fair share of people with…