Jamey's Newsletter: Sunday, January 22, 2023
Jamey's Newsletter: Sunday, January 22, 2023
The phrase "God helps those who help themselves" finds its way in Benjamin Franklin's Poor Richard's Almanac in 1757 and not the Bible.
If I am jobless, I can't just assume that a paycheck will show up in my hand without doing what I can to get a job.
There can be some truth in the statement, "God helps those who help themselves." But if we are honest, it is seldom spoken out of kindness. Instead, it is usually expressed as a statement to those we view as lazy.
And in that instance, we usually use it as an excuse not to help others. But, the fact is some people truly cannot help themselves. Sometimes people are in a deep hole that they can't climb out of without help.
Proverbs 10:4, "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth," needs to be balanced with Proverbs 19:17, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done."
The truth is God helps those who cannot help themselves, and a lot of times, God does it through the help of others.
Jamey
God Helps Those Who Help Themselves (click here to watch and share)
(Pre-recorded online worship from Gainesville First UMC, Gainesville, Georgia)
Maybe your Grandma said it. Maybe you heard it, and it made you feel better. Maybe you just assumed it was true!
We all know a few famous spiritual sayings that fit nicely on stickers and magnets.
These sayings seem to come from the Bible, giving them the weight of scripture without actually being scripture.
In this series, we look at some popular spiritual statements and explore the insight and wisdom in the Bible.
Weekly Prayer
For the many times you had helped me when I didn’t deserve it, God, I am thankful. For your love, for your forgiveness, and for your mercy that I depend on constantly, I am grateful, O God. If I can be of help to someone this week who is in need, use me, O Lord. Amen.
Meme of the Week
Dad Jokes
Why was the stadium so hot after the game? Because all the fans left.
I could tell a joke about pizza, but it's a little cheesy.
Gift Idea for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is coming. Below are some gift suggestions. You can thank me later.
For the couple who can’t decide on dinner plans, use the decision coin. It can be personalized.
I Have Been Thinking……………
I have an accountability group of three other men that I check in with each Thursday morning. I am grateful for the friendship, encouragement, and challenge I receive from these guys.
Regardless of our profession, we all need trusted people around us who hold us accountable and encourage us to live into the best version of ourselves.
Proverbs 18:20 says, "Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces."
When you have accountability, you have someone helping keep you on track and moving forward with your goals. In addition, they will help keep the vision in mind when everything else tries to distract you.
If you are a lone ranger, I encourage you to find two or three individuals who will walk beside you. It will be one of the best decisions you make for your personal and professional life.
Photo of the Week (Photos taken by me)
Book I am Reading This Week
The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You by Julie Zhuo
INTERESTING ARTICLES, PODCASTS, OR VIDEOS FROM THE WEEK
WHAT THE LONGEST STUDY ON HUMAN HAPPINESS FOUND IS THE KEY TO A GOOD LIFE
Youtube: Apple Notes: Power User Tips & Hidden Features
(Not much reading this week)
Top Ten (This is a little brain exercise I do - since I don’t do Wordle). I have a notebook where I make a list of ten things that serve as sort of a brain dump for me. It is random but fun. I plan on sharing it with you in 2023.
What would I write if I owned a giant billboard and could change it weekly?
Kindness matters
No one particular action defines courage
My wife is always right (almost)
God loves you - yes, even you!
Tell someone you love them today
Do good
Pumpkin Spice is gross
Tell someone. Don’t fight the battle alone.
A cell number where I would send one note of encouragement a day to the subscribers
Don’t be a jerk
What message would you write?
Happening at Gainesville First United Methodist Church
Sunday, March 5 / 4 pm / Sanctuary of Gainesville First United Methodist Church
The Lanier Chamber Singers presents Requiem by composer Michael John Trotta. LCS commissioned this new work for chorus, soloists, and chamber orchestra. The program includes other works by Trotta, who is in residence for this event. Tickets are $15 in advance/ $20 at the door.
Tickets will go fast!
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Address for drop-off: 3606 McEver Rd, Oakwood, GA 30566
Click Here to learn more about Family Promise.
Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” - Brene Brown
If you enjoy this newsletter, please consider sharing it with others. It will help me tremendously in getting the word out.
