Church In The Valley - Ontario Ranch Campus

The goal of this message is to establish some biblical framework related to the way we view ourselves and our position. It is crucial to understand our role (stewards/managers) and the priorities to deal with the stress of money and possessions. We can't create a workable plan until we deal with these foundations.

God continually stretches us to include more people in our lives. We have a unique opportunity to serve others and use the energy and purpose God has given us. This message will look at how ministry is the heart of the Christian life, and how it is displayed in our relationship with God, fellow Christians and non-Christians.

All of us want to get on track with our money. How should we deal with the frustration of money being a constant stress and strain on us? this message will look at biblical stewardship and having the right view on money and materialism.

No matter what we focus on during the year, if it doesn't include a group of people who will sharpen and challenge us - we will fall into discouragement and disillusionment. This message will look at the importance of being connected to a group of people who know the real you.

The New Year is an opportunity to ReNew our commitment to Jesus, other followers of Christ and the mission He has given us.

The New Year is a time to concentrate on what really matters--Godliness. Beginning with our relationship to God--as we focus on Him and realign with His purposes--our goals for the new year come into focus. Ultimately, what matters to God, should matter to us. This takes discipline and asking God to move us back into the right alignment with His view on things.

God uses a Star to lead the magi to Jesus...the King of all Kings. They worship him...they present gifts to Him...the baby King. Jesus connects us to the Father, lighting the way to God. Staying connected to Jesus gives us the light we need to live for His glory and purpose.

At the end of human history, Christ will return and be revealed to everyone in all his majesty. He will reign as king The earth and the sky (sun, moon and stars) as we know it will be not more. Everyone will give an account to Christ the judge. The people of God whose names were found in the book of life will dwell with God forever in New Jerusalem, so there will no longer be a need for the sun, moon or stars. That great day ought to shape the way we live our lives every day.

Jesus wants His followers to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). As we become more like Christ, we give light to others - we are a reflection of Him. We are not the light, but we reflect Him and point others to Him through the way we live. When we exhibit His character and attitudes in everyday life we "shine like stars in the universe" that helps others see the truth of the :word of Life" we share.

In Genesis 15:1-6, Abraham is losing sight of God's promise to use him to bless all the peoples of the earth. God uses the stars as a reminder to Abraham of his promise in Genesis 12:1-3. The stars can also remind us that we are a part of something much bigger than ourselves. With God's help, we have an opportunity to make an impact well beyond our own city, lives and generation. Abraham believed God and his faith was credited as righteousness-this means when we put our faith in God and do what He asks today, we can trust Him to multiply our efforts to impact the world in the way He has planned.

God made the stars to rule and light up the expanse (separting light and darkness) in the night sky. They serve as a constant reminder of God's great power and wisdom, displaying his creative handiwork. Rather than drawing worship to themselves or other parts of creation, stars and other created things are intended to turn our heads toward his eternal plans, connecting us to His Word and His ways. God's creation also (stars and sun) reminds us of God's love and faithfulness; He can be counted on. When we're in need of direction, look up and be reminded of God's power and presence.

Learning to listen is the heart of "walking in the Spirit". The Spirit wants to lead us but lets us decide whether or not we will follow each moment. We must choose this walk in the Spirit over the flesh (which has already been crucified with Christ). We keep in step with the Spirit when we say no to the flesh and yes to the Spirit over and over again.

What "world-rocking" whisper is God ready to place in your ears? In this message, we will be challenged to shift our focus from my needs, my wants, the desires of my heart to that which weighs on the heart of God. Through powerful biblical references and modern-day illustrations alike, this message reinforces three truths of those who spend themselves on others' behalf: they listen with wide-open ears, they give with wide-open hands and they live with wide-open hearts.

How would your life shift if you practiced God's presence with the same discipline and passion as that which you practice your other pursuits? This message will encourage us to consider practicing the presence of God as a normal course of action. By corralling our thoughts--focusing on that which is true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable--by communicating with God frequently and personally, and by conforming our lives to his Word, we become more effectual in our spiritual life that we ever dreamed possible.

What would your daily life look like if each step was directed by God? In this message, three types of whispers are explored--whispers of action, whispers of admonition, and whispers of assurance.

What if it really is possible to hear from heaven--personally, consistently, intimately--as you navigate life here on earth? In this message, we will discover five clear filters to use in testing every whisper of guidance that we hear. There are four important questions to ask that correspond to each filter: "God, is this prompting really from you?" "Does it align with Scripture?" "Is it wise?" "Is it in tune with my character?" and "What do those I most trust think of the whisper I have received?" before obeying the "divine" input they believe they have heard.

God is speaking to us every day and He wants us to listen. Then He wants us to trust what He says and follow. If we listen, we can hear His Spirit speaking to us in the middle of everyday life situations and experiences. When we slow down, quiet ourselves and listen, God gives clear direction and encouragement.

God has given us a multi-generational plan for discipleship. The role a parent plays in the life of their children is of utmost importance - they model and explain the ways of God to their children as they live them out daily in the home (which is where the responsiblity for discipleship lays - in the home not the church).

God has given a multi-generational promise to prosper His peole who follow His ways. We may or may not see the promise fulfilled in our lifetime - a parent's role is to plow the ground for the next generation.

Growth and meaning flow out of a commitment to serve God's purpose through the church. He wants us to make the effort to do our part in church life and invite friends and family to get involved.