Newsletter September 20th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Newsletter September 13th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Newsletter September 6th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Newsletter August 30th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

When I was a kid, I loved baseball. I remember walking down to the Little League field in Albemarle to practice. Snow still lay on the ground in the shadows. I did not care. I was there to play ball. In those “pre-instant replay” days, the umpire ruled supreme. If he said you were “out” you were out. If he said “safe” you were safe. 

Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts….”. The word “rule” can also be translated, “umpire”. Thus, we can say, “Let God’s peace be your umpire. Let His peace rule as Supreme Authority in your life. 

Why do we need to let God’s peace rule? In a baseball game there will be arguments and trouble without a person in charge. In normal, everyday life, the devil will trouble your mind with bad thoughts. They may be sinful thoughts. More often they will be thoughts of sickness, money troubles, relationship miseries, disappointments, and fears of all types. The devil wants you to be “stirred up”, anxious, and worried in your mind. However, when you allow God’s peace to be your umpire, everything changes. The devil hits you with an unsettling thought, and God’s peace says, “That’s a foul ball, it doesn’t matter, it doesn’t count”. 

2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us to “Bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ”. God’s peace empowers us to do that very thing. Bad thoughts come, but God’s peace captures and negates them. Friends, the devil’s strategy is to fill your mind with anxious, fearful thoughts. It is a miserable life if we allow that to happen. Retaining those thoughts and permitting them to grow keeps us worried. However, when we, as a Believer in Jesus, call upon our personal umpire, God’s Peace, to get into the game [our thought life], we begin to live in peace, joy, and victory. 

Remember, this is a growing experience. We do not become experts overnight. But, the more we welcome God’s peace as the Supreme Umpire in our life, the easier it becomes to reject the devil and his meddlesome suggestions. Let’s agree to settle the issue today and to let the Umpire rule our thought life. 

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS 

1.Website service and 9am parking lot service continue as usual. 

2.We will be observing Communion this Sunday [August 30] 

3. Gary Hamilton and Grant Hartsell are finishing their terms as Deacons. We appreciate these men and their service to our church. Please give them your personal “Thanks”.

Our world is troubled, but our God is on the Throne. Seek Him. 

Have a God blessed week. 

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church 

Newsletter August 23rd

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Newsletter August 16th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

It is late winter or early spring and the serious gardener gets busy. He carefully drops seeds into little cups of potting soil. He does not come back the next day and expect to pick a ripe tomato. He knows that it will take time. Eventually, a little plant rises out of the soil. He transplants it into his garden. He gives it the water and protection that is needed. After many weeks, those juicy tomatoes appear. If he is planting apple seeds he knows that it will be several years before any apples are ready to harvest.

Why the little lesson on gardening? Because all over the world and especially in the United States, there are people who are angry with God, who are upset with God, and who have turned their back on God. Why would they do that? At some time in life they felt that God had “let them down” or believed that He ignored their prayer, or in some other way disappointed them. They got tired of waiting on God to intervene in their situation. It could also be that God did not give the answer in the way they expected.

Hebrews 10:35, 36, is so helpful in showing us how to deal with our pain. “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For you have need of patience, that, after you have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” Let us study this for a moment.

1. There is great reward and you will receive the thing God has promised.

2. The seed is planted as you do [and pray] the will of God.

3. Patience [stick-ability, never give up, in it for the long haul, I will not quit] is required. The gardener knows time will pass before the harvest comes. However, he also knows that when he plants good seed in good soil the harvest will finally arrive. We must have an “hang in there” attitude until God honors those promises He made. Remember, the Lord honors His promises, not our wishful thinking or selfish desires.

Pastor Ed, how long must I wait? I cannot tell you. Noah worked on the ark 100 years before the rain came; Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac, Joseph waited 13 years for ruler-ship, Daniel prayed and fasted for 3 weeks before an angel brought an answer from heaven. Jesus healed multitudes instantaneously. Others “began to amend [began the healing process] when He spoke the healing word. One man required some mud in his eyes and a trip to the pool to wash in order to see. God’s ways and time tables are not ours. I have had prayers answered almost immediately. There are other prayers that have only been partially answered after 35 years. But, because I know that these are Bible promises from God to me, I fully expect to have the complete answer.

The gardener needs patience to reap a crop. The Christian also needs patience when dealing with spiritual matters. Friends, please do not allow the devil to discourage you, and to drive you away from your Precious Lord. 

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. Parking Lot and website services continue as usual

2. There will be a called Church Conference on August 23 for the purpose of electing messengers to the Stanly-Montgomery Baptist Association. We will also be choosing new members for the Building and Grounds Committee.

3. We will celebrate Communion on August 30. We are planning to do it in a safe manner..

4. If the Lord leads you to give to the Rev. Otis Goins Memorial Fund to help fund needs for the elderly ministry [NCBAM]  please give on the 16th, or 23rd of August. Mark your envelope accordingly. Thank you for giving.

God is a Good God and He is For You

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter August 9th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Newsletter July 26th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

I am human, and I “mess up” often. However, one of the joys of my life is to do nice things for others. I, especially, like to listen to Pamela say, “I would like to have such and such”, and then to surprise her by getting it for her.

Since God is so much greater than I am and since He is Perfect Love, it is wonderful to read [Matthew 7:7-12]. Verse 11 says, “If ye then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?”

Consider also, 2 Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him”.

My God—Your God—is looking for ways to bless you. He has not overlooked you or forgotten you. He is actively seeking opportunities to do nice things for you. Often, these blessings come in unexpected ways and at unexpected times. Can I share some examples from my own life?

1.For 35 years, every time Pamela and I were really hurting, a dear friend from Chatham County called with words of encouragement. She always prays before we end the call. She does not know we are hurting, but God knows. He speaks to her and she calls at just the right time.

2.Last year, a special friend in the mountains called. She told me that she was canning green beans and tomatoes for us. What a blessing! With the struggles Pamela was having with her mother we would never have gotten any canning done. Every time we opened a jar this past winter we said, “Thank You Lord for using this friend to bless us.”

3. I am thinking of a man this time. Several times I would be out working in the yard and he would stop, talk a few minutes, and hand me $100. He did not know that we were struggling financially that week. The Lord knew and used this man to meet a need.

4.The list goes on:

   …a mission trip to Brazil for our 25th anniversary

   …a 50th anniversary trip to Montana

   … the car Pamela now drives [ask her about it] 

I am not bragging about me. I am bragging on the Lord and praising Him for the wonderful thing He has done for us. Precious Friends, God loves you as much as He loves me. He has no favorites.Let me say it again, “He is looking for ways to be a blessing to you.”. Your blessings may look different from mine. He knows you and exactly how to bless you. He knows your hurts, pains, needs, and desires. We, humans, want to bless those we love. So it is that our Lord is also eager to do good things for those who love Him. These blessings may not always come when and how we expect. However, since God is so much wiser than we are, His blessings are usually much more wonderful than we could ever imagine.

This week, be anticipating the blessings of God to show up on your doorstep. Be sure to “Thank Him” when they come. As you receive goodness from the Lord, ask this question, “Today, is it my turn to be a blessing to someone else?’

ADDITIONAL THOUGHT

1This week there will be a website service as usual. Also, the Parking Lot service will be 9:00am.

2.Because of Covid-19 we think it will be wise to postpone Homecoming from August to late September. This will put it nearer the date the church actually started.

3.Thank you for the preparation, cooking, and serving of the Law Enforcement meal. You were a vital part of our mission outreach to those who serve and protect us.

4. As we listened Sunday to the Quarterly Financial Report, I was so thankful for your faithful giving during this difficult time. You may have mailed your gifts, or you may have dropped them in the white bucket in the parking lot. It does not matter which method you used. The Lord was pleased. Remember, we give “through” a church, but we give “to” the Lord.

Expect God’s blessings this week!!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter July 19th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Elijah was a prophet who saw miracles and who was mightily used by God. Yet, in 1st Kings 19:9-18 we see Elijah hiding in a cave complaining to the Lord, “I have been faithful to serve You, the authorities are seeking to kill me, and I am the only True Believer left”.

Have you ever felt that way? All around you see ungodliness, evil, and hate flourish. Real Bible believing Christians are ridiculed and ostracized. In addition, Covid-19 has many of us experiencing isolation and loneliness. Maybe that describes you. It is so easy to develop a “cave mentality”.

That is why the Bible always has good news. The Lord tells Elijah, “You are not going to die, I have essential ministry for you in the future, and by the way, I have 7000 who have not bowed the knee to Baal. You are not alone”.

Elijah trained Elisha as the prophet who would take his place. Elisha also had an experience that should be an encouragement to all of us. [2nd Kings 6:8-23] The army of Syria wanted to destroy Elisha and surrounded the city where he was. The prophet’s servant saw this great army circling the city and cried out in fear. He was quaking in his boots. Elisha told him, “Do not be afraid.. There are more with us than with them”. He then asked the Lord to open the servant’s eyes to see spiritual reality. Suddenly, the servant could see that the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire around Elisha.

Friends, this is not the time to fear. First, you have Christian brothers and sisters around the world who love you, believe in God like you believe, and are standing with you as fellow soldiers in God’s mighty army. Secondly, you have your personal angel and a host of other angels ministering to you and for you. If we could just see into the spirit realm and recognize these powerful warriors, we would be thrilled, encouraged, and blessed. They are there with you even if you never see them. Meditate on Romans 8:31 “If God is for us, who can stand against us?”

As we continue this Covid-19 journey, let us make a special effort this week to share the love of Christ every opportunity we have.”Social distancing” may prevent a hug in person, but we can share a Christian hug with our words.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1.Parking lot services will be held this week at 9:00 am.

2. Website service will also be available.

3. Quarterly Church Conference July 19 [Two constitutional amendments are being proposed–see last newsletter]

God loves you, He really does!!!!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church  

Newsletter July 12th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

When I analyze what I have written and preached the past few weeks, I realize that I keep returning to the desperate need for us to be spending quality and quantity time praying for our nation.

By this time someone may be thinking “I’m tired of hearing it. Get off my back”. Another may think, “Why bother. Our prayers will not make any difference”, Some of us may think, I know I need to be in prayer and I plan to do it”. Yet, we continue to allow the devil to convince us to delay getting started. Finally, there are those who have begun to pray earnestly.

God tells us, “The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much”[James 5:16]. Since God cannot and will not lie, real prayer is a powerful force in our world.

Let me give you a historical example that you will not hear on the evening news. John Lake was a powerfully used man of God in the early 1900s. Some of that time he was a missionary church planter in South Africa. He tells of a time when a devastating fever plague hit that area. In one month one-fourth of the population [both white and black] died. Can you imagine 15000 people dying in Stanly County in a month? Can you stretch your mind to think of two and a half million dying in North Carolina in one month? They would go into homes and find entire families deceased. Digging graves and burying the dead was an overwhelming task. John Lake took over leading the burial details. 

Meanwhile, a real prayer warrior climbed under a thorn tree and began to call out to the Lord for deliverance. He prayed for days. Each day John Lake would take his friend a plate of food and rouse him long enough to eat a few bites. One day he told Brother Lake, “I believe that today if I had some help we could have a breakthrough”. Lake went to his knees and joined in prayer.

Presently, Dr. Lake became aware that he was out from under the thorn tree and was about 100 feet away. His spiritual eyes were opened and he saw a multitude of demons like a flock of sheep. Suddenly, his friend rushed past him cursing the demons in the Name of Jesus, ordering them to go back to hell or wherever they originated.

WHEN EVERYONE AWOKE THE NEXT MORNING THE PLAGUE WAS GONE. IT HAD TOTALLY DISAPPEARED.

Believing prayer made the difference. Since God is “No respecter of persons” [Acts 10:34] what He did then He is willing to do now. I believe that our generation of Believers has some real prayer warriors who will be faithful to call out to the Lord. God is waiting. As we pray, expect powerful answers!

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. 9:00 am-New time for our Sunday “Parking Lot’ service. Should be cooler.

2. Remember that we need cakes for the 18th meal for law enforcement.

3.Thanks so much to Erin and Grant Hartsell and those who helped prepare the wonderful VBS materials.

4. Quarterly Church Conference Sunday July 19

Two proposed Constitutional amendments

a. Set the percent needed to call a pastor at 75%

b. Cease sending flowers for hospitalizations and at time of death.

Have a blessed week. Draw near to Jesus!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church. 

Newsletter July 5th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Newsletter June 28th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

In one of our “parking lot” services, I mentioned the question folks are asking: “When will things get back to normal”? By normal, I think we are
thinking of how things were a year ago, before the riots and Covid-19.  Unfortunately, I think the answer is one word “Never”.We have turned a corner and America will have revival or chaos. The hearts of men must be changed by the Prince of Peace, or we will eventually perish. The devil is at work, confusing the minds and wills of so many. Only the power and presence of God can make a difference.

Instead of watching the news and becoming discouraged, let look to Jesus and ask for Him to revive our nation.

The devil would like for Believers to give up and quit. He wants us to “throw in the towel” and let him have our land. Brothers and Sisters, we 
need to be especially thoughtful of Paul’s admonition to the Galatians [6:9] “Let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we will reap
if we faint not”.

Also, be mindful of the attitude of Habakkuk: “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines, the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stall, YET, I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” [3:17,18]

Friends, even if things change slowly, continue to be faithful and to spend time in talking with your Lord. Continue to praise the Lord with expectancy, knowing that He is on His throne.

Think of this: a fly can be hatched in less than a week and lives less than a month. It takes 19 months for an elephant to be born. They live up to 70 years. We are believing for an elephant size revival in America. We are asking our Lord to send a huge move of God that doesn’t die away in a few weeks but lasts for generations.

Habakkuk also goes on to affirm: ” The Lord is my strength and He will make my feet like hind’s feet, and He will make me to walk upon mine high places”. Keep trusting in Jesus and He will have you and our nation walking upon our own “high places”. God has some spiritual heights that are specifically and especially reserved for you. The anticipation of walking with Jesus on the mountain tops ought to be  sufficient motivation to set us on fire spiritually.

Back to “normal” does not look as good to me as does the manifested presence of Jesus in genuine earth shaking revival. Let us seek Jesus with all that we are and have!!!!

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. We missed seeing you this past Sunday. Even though we were not together, God was continuing to work in many hearts and lives. It is amazing how God can take a bad situation and use it for His glory.

2. We plan to meet in the parking lot  gain this Sunday. Since the Governor has  mandated masks everywhere people are in public, we are assuming that you will want to wear your own mask.

3. Continue to pray and to call each other. Some are hurting physically, others emotionally, financially, and spiritually. Your contact could lift someone’s spirits today. I have done some of that and realize I should be doing more. I apologize if I have not been in touch with you as often as I should have done

We love you as our special fellow  soldiers in the Lord’s army.

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church.

Newsletter June 21st

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

There are three places in the Barbee’s Grove building where a person can get a cool drink of bottled water. I have seen kids at the fountain who
were so small that they needed help holding their cup. I have seen Senior Adults there as well. This water is available to all who pass
those fountains. Members, visitors, workmen, can all partake. The water has been provided and is free to all who want it.

The New Testament has much to say about water. In John 4:5-26 we read of an encounter Jesus had with a woman at a well in Samaria. Jesus told her “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”Jesus offered this living water to a woman who was not a Jew and who was living immorally. That is good news!. It means this water is available to anyone, no matter who they are or what they have done.

The Book of Revelation shows the many disasters and troubles of the end of the age. After letting us see such evil and destruction Jesus gives
us an offer of a better life. In Chapter 22 He pictures “…a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal…”.Later in the chapter we have this
offer “And the Spirit and the Bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say ,Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him
take of the water of life freely”.

What good news this is. The water of life is offered freely to all who are thirsty. I pray that you have taken a big drink of Jesus, the WATER
OF LIFE. If not, would you do so today?  In John 7:37-39 Jesus makes the same offer. “If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink. He that believeth on me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”. The next verse explains that this last offer refers to the Holy Spirit. Those who seek and ask to be Spirit-filled have not only water for themselves but have so much that it spills out of them to bring refreshment to others.  How wonderful, to have our thirst quenched, and to then bless others.  How full of the Spirit are you?

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

As we celebrate Fathers Day

1 Honor your father if he is living

2. If he has passed away, be thankful for the good things he imparted into your life

3. Spend time with your Heavenly Father in worship, praise, and thanksgiving.

Have a God Blessed week.

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter June 14th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Are you eating the crumbs on the floor or eating from a full plate at the table?
That is an interesting question is it not? Let’s talk about it. I grew up in a home that placed a high priority on food. Our clothes may have been outdated, and our car may have been an old model, but there was always an abundance of food on the table. When they called me to Sunday Dinner I never once thought of sitting on the floor and hoping somebody would drop a few crumbs on the floor. I was a “son”, a member
of the family. I sat at the table and filled my plate. Usually, I had seconds and often a third helping. That was my privilege as a family member.
In Matthew 15:21-28 we read of a woman who was okay with getting the crumbs off the table. She was not a Jew and had no covenant rights. But, she had an ill daughter and she pleaded with Jesus to give her the crumbs off the Jewish table. Because of her faith, Jesus healed her
daughter.
I have a concern that too many of us are settling for crumbs when we could have a full plate. Think of the promises of God—-salvation, fulness of the Spirit, healing, financial blessing, answered prayer, peace, direction for daily life, annointing for ministry, and so many other blessings. All are on the table. Yet, how few of us partake. The devil has convinced us that we are unworthy, that these promises are not for us, or has given some other lie to discourage us from sitting at our Father’s table. We go through life satisfied with crumbs when we could have a full plate.
Let me ask a simple question—are you a child of God, are you born again? If the answer is “yes”, then you are entitled to everything God
promises. Sit proudly at your Father’s table and ask for anything on the menu. God is waiting to pass those dishes to you.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
1.We have not mentioned the Food Drive for the Baptist Children’s Homes in weeks. You have continued to give. The last check we sent brought our total gift to $4000. Wow! God says, “You do it unto one of the least of these and you do it unto me”. Expect a blessing.
2.We welcome Mrs. Rozena Tucker into our fellowship. She joins us by transfer of letter. It is always a joy when the Lord brings new people
into our church.
3. It was a privilege to honor Michael Barbee this past Sunday. He is our High School graduate for the year.Michael is a super young man.
4. Website services and a 10:00 parking lot service on Sunday are our weekend schedule.
5. Pray for our nation!!! We must have a fresh move of the Holy Spirit.

The Lord is still on the throne!!!!
Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church.

Newsletter June 7th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Several years ago one of my friends told me about a bad mistake he made.  He said that he pulled up to the gas pumps and forgot which vehicle he was driving. He proceeded to pump gallons of the wrong fuel into the tank. I have forgotten whether it was gas instead of diesel or the other
way around. He was looking at serious engine trouble. Fortunately, the Lord made him aware of what he had done before he turned the key. He had the truck towed, the tank pumped, and came out okay. The wrong fuel can cause problems in a vehicle, in your physical body, or in your
spirit.Put the wrong things in and you get trouble. That is why Jesus tells us to “Take heed WHAT you hear…” [Mark 4:24] and “Take heed HOW you hear…” [Luke 8:18]. James 1:22,23 teaches us to be a DOER of the Word and not just a HEARER.  What food or fuel are you feeding your spirit? That will determine the type of person you become and your ability to live a Godly life in good times and bad. Do you hang around with folks who are negative, critical, gossipy, and have evil in their talk. Do you read and listen to material that is filled  with doubt and unbelief? Is there anything vulgar that goes into your spirit?
OR
Do you you listen to people who speak, faith, belief, peace, joy, love, purity, and who are walking with the Lord? Are you reading and listening
to that which is uplifting and wholesome? We have the God-given right to choose how we feed our spirit. Jesus tells us that if we want positive results we need to wisely choose.  Friends, I urge you to choose the fuel that is approved of God. In the world we now inhabit, we must be spiritually strong in order to survive.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
1. Thank you for your continued support of Barbee’s Grove. Whether you mail your gifts or put them in the white bucket in the parking lot, they
are appreciated. Your gifts and tithes are honoring to our Lord and will receive His blessing. 
2. We will continue with the website service and the 10:00 am parking lot service for another week or so. The Deacons are discussing our options for getting back into the building and hope to have an announcement soon.
3. We will have our Quarterly Church Conference this Sunday [June 7], weather permitting.
4. Attendance at the parking lot services has been great. We appreciate the Lord for giving good weather and you for ignoring the gnats and 
patiently worshiping with us. We totally and completely understand that there are some of you who have physical issues that prevent you from
attending. We miss you. However, we would NEVER want you to do anything that would jeopardize your health. It is far more important to have you with us for years to come than to have you attend a service and then leave us prematurely. It is better to err on the side of caution. Know
that you are loved and that we will see you when it is safe

God is on our side. With Him for us, no one can stand against us.
Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church.

Newsletter May 31st

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Since we just honored our veterans by celebrating Memorial Day, I thought that you might be challenged by this article I wrote several
years ago.
  “Political Correctness” is putting a damper on it, but for years across the East and South, there were a number of people with the hobby of
Civil War re-enactment. On specified weekends, these folks gathered at the sites of Civil War battlefields. They dressed in the grey of Johnny
Reb or the blue of Billy Yank. Their uniforms, food, and weaponry were as close as possible to that which would have been available in 1860.
These folks then re-enacted battles of long ago. When the weekend was over, no ground was actually gained or lost. The only danger was rain,
or sunburn, or perhaps , some old codger pulling a hamstring running up a hill. When the weekend was over, it had been lots of fun and everyone
had a jolly good time. But, had anything changed? NO
Compare that with the soldier who waded ashore on D Day and then fought his way acre by acre across France and into Germany. That soldier knew hardship, danger, and faced death daily. The German army gave up ground grudgingly. However, at last, a costly, but real victory was won over an evil enemy. Which of the above descriptions best fit our personal lives as Christians and which best fits the reality of the church we attend? We have our churches, our Bibles, our religious talk. It is all authentic.  However, daily and weekly, do we just re-enact the battles our
forefathers fought? Is any real spiritual territory gained? When our weekends are over, what difference have we made? Are we much of a threat
to Satan’s evil empire? Is our major battle over who has the most authentic uniforms [music, Bible translation,etc.]?Could the question an
evil spirit asked some re-enacters in Acts 19:15 be asked of us, “Jesus I know and Paul I know, but who are you”?
                OR
Are we known in Hell because of the trouble we cause the devil? Are we true soldiers of Jesus? A true soldier engages in spiritual warfare.. He
knows there is a real enemy and will make any sacrifice , including a willingness to die for Jesus.Fasting, prayer, sacrificial giving, living
a pure life, forgiving others quickly, are all characteristics of a true soldier of Jesus. The soldier is prepared to expect attacks from the
enemy. However, he does not live in fear but in praise because he knows he serves the Victor, the One who Is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.His
motto comes from that old hymn “Am I a Soldier of the Cross?”
“Must I be carried to the skies
on flowery beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize
and sailed thro’ bloody seas?
Sure I must fight if I would reign
Increase my courage Lord
I’ll bear the toil; endure the pain
Supported by Thy Word.

Let us be honest with ourselves—Are we re-enacting or are we doing spiritual warfare and making a profound difference in our world? What
changes happen in our world because we meet each Sunday?

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
1. Let us remember to pray for Angie Barbee and her family. Her Mother, Mrs. Janis Good passed away this week.
2. Weather permitting, we will have our Quarterly Church Conference on Sunday, June 7.
3. If you wish to send cards
      Ronald McDonald House
      Bryson Martin Family
       Room   18
       535 Alabama Ave.
       Memphis TN  38105

Be blessed
Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter May 24th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

As part of our outside decor, my sweet wife has placed a series of solar lights down the walk leading to our driveway. One night recently, I was
up at midnight. It was very dark and “raining cats and dogs”. It was miserable weather. Yet, shining brightly down the walk were those little
solar lights. How did they do that? It was easy. They had been soaking up the sun so that when it got dark, they could still shine. They were
not the sun but were radiating the light they received from the sun.

 From time-to-time our world grows dark. Sometimes it is darker than at other times. The days we are now experiencing are some of the darkest
hours in recent history. However, I have friends all over the world who are like those little solar lights. Some are ministers and missionaries.
Others are teachers, mechanics, Wal-Mart employees, nurses and doctors.  All walks of life are represented. The situation is dark, but they are
shining brightly. They shine as lights in their own homes, the churches they faithfully attend, at work, and when they are out in the community.
Calls, texts, emails, personal encounters, and every other manner of contact find them showing forth light, joy, peace, and contentment. How
do they do that? They have been spending plenty of time with the SON. Jesus Christ, the SON OF GOD, is the Light of the world [see John 1]. We
are not Jesus. However, those who spend quality and quantity time in the presence of the SON begin to absorb His light and are then able to
radiate that light to a dark and miserable world.

I get joy in my heart and a smile on my face whenever I think about these who radiate the SON, Jesus. They are a special part of God’s
family and are my wonderful friends and fellow Believers.   

Remember, when Moses spent time in the presence of God, he had to put a veil upon his face when he came back into the presence of the Children of Israel. Today, no veil is required. We let the glory of the Lord shine forth.

I pray that this time of staying at home has allowed you to spend extra time in the presence of the SON. Now, as we venture out and as business
reopens, may the glory of God shine from you to those still living in darkness.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. Mrs. Ruth Whitley passed away this week. Please remember her family in your prayers.

2.If you are graduating this year, please give your name to Brenda Burris. We want to honor you at a future service.

3.The Outdoor Service on the 17th was great and well attended. We are planning the same type service for the 24th. Join us if you are able.

4. There will still be a special service on the website for those who cannot attend in person.

Be blessed of the Lord this week!!!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter May 17th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

If I asked you,”Is the Bible the Word of God? Is the Bible true? Do you personally believe the Bible?, what would you say? Most of you would
answer “yes” to all three questions. But, deep down in our hearts do we really believe the truth of the Bible? Let us test the strength of that
belief.

Proverbs 4:20-22 says, “My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the
midst of thy heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh”.

The word “health” can also be translated “medicine”. God says that His Word is medicine to all our flesh—not spirit, but “flesh”. If we
believe God said what He meant and meant what He said, is it not in our best interest to be diligently studying the Bible to discover God’s
medicine? There are dozens of verses in the Bible that mention healing.  How many do you know? How many do you believe? How many do you confess as true in your own life?

True confession comes as the Word is “engrafted” in your spirit. [James 1:21] When God’s Word goes from “head” knowledge to “heart” knowledge
deep down in our innermost being, then we can have a powerful confession.

If you went to a medical doctor and he told you, “I have good news and bad news for you: the bad news is that you have a very serious medical
condition that could be fatal. The good news is that we have a medicine that will cure you”. Would you have the prescription filled at the
pharmacy? Would you take the medicine home and take the prescribed dosage? Or, would you ignore a chance to be well? Is it not the same
with what God promises?

There is a minister that I greatly admire and respect. I believe that he and his wife truly walk with the Lord and hear from Him. Numerous times
over the past ten years, I have heard this minister say something like this: “I believe the Lord has shown me that in these last days before
the return of Christ, there will be viruses and other medical pandemics which will overwhelm the medical establishment. People will panic
because there are no easy or quick cures. Only those who know their Bibles and who walk in the truth of God’s Word will have hope. In fact,
the unsaved world will come knocking at the church doors, saying ‘Help us’ “. When I first heard this minister friend say those words ten years
ago, we had never heard of the Coronavirus. If what we are now experiencing is the beginning of what will continue to occur before
Jesus returns, then I want to be busily studying the Word of God in order to load up on God’s Medicine.

DO YOU REALLY BELIEVE THAT THE BIBLE IS THE WORD OF GOD AND THAT IT IS TRUE? IS THAT WORD ENGRAFTED IN YOUR SPIRIT? DO YOU STAND ON THAT WORD AND CONFESS IT AS TRUE IN YOUR OWN LIFE?

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. The total given for the Food Drive for the NC Baptist Children’s Homes was $2600. This came from the Benevolence Fund, the Baptist Men,
the Baptist Women, and your personal gifts. THANK YOU!. You have made a difference in the lives of hurting children

2. This Sunday [May 17] we will have our first service at the church.  10:00 am. Outside. You might want to bring a lawn chair and your mask.

3. We are still taping a service for those who cannot make it to the service at the church. Check the website.

Love in Jesus

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter May 10th

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Some folks seldom, or never, read their Bible. As a result, they miss many of God’s blessings. People also miss those blessings if they read a
Bible passage but overlook the truth the Lord is teaching. Let’s examine one of those blessings this week.

Have you ever thought: When I get to Heaven, I want to see Jesus first, family and friends second, and then I want to spend time with those
saints of old—Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc.? You anticipate hearing how God used them in prophecy, miracle working, and ministry. After all,
these are your heroes. However, do you realize that it is going to be just the opposite? Those Old Testament saints are waiting to interview
YOU. I see “the wheels turning” in your minds. “Ed, what do you mean when you say that those saints of old are waiting to question me?” Let
me point you to something Jesus Himself said. Did you miss it? Get out your Bible and read Luke 7:28. “For I say unto you, among those born of
women, there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” In the sales world,
sometimes products are rated as the “good” model, the “better” model, and the “best” model. Jesus tells us that the Old Testament prophets
were “good”. John the Baptist was “better” than any of them. BUT, the least, most insignificant Christian is “best”, the “top of the line
Model”. You, as a Believer in Jesus are superior to John and to all those prophets. Wow!! What a revelation. How can that be?

In Old Testament times, even those who followed the Lord closely were “natural” men. They were not “born again”. We read that from
time-to-time, the Spirit of God would “come upon” certain individuals to inspire them to do the work of God. At other times, they had no presence
of the power of God. Christian Believers, on the other hand, are “born again” [John 3:3], “new creations in Christ” [2 Corinthians 5:17], “are
continually indwelt by the presence of the Living God” [John 14:16,17] and have “Christ in them as the hope of glory” [Colossians 1:27].

Those Old Testament saints will be saying to us “We had to face war, disease, and pestilence without the presence of God in our daily lives.
It was different for you. How was it to deal with the coronavirus and other troubles with the Living God inside of you? Surely, that must have
been an awesome experience. We wish that we could have had what you had.”

Dear friends, no generation in history prior to the Day of Pentecost, has had what you and I have. As followers of Jesus, we have His Life in
our lives, His power in us, His love filling us, and His glory all around 24/7.Those Old Testament saints are envious of you. We “fight the
good fight of faith” and win; not because of who we are, but because of WHO lives in us.

Rejoice! Praise the Lord! Be thankful! Live with that Glorious Jesus controlling, leading, and blessing your life. Hallelujah!

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. With restrictions easing, perhaps we will soon be seeing each other in person. We will inform you of WHEN, and under WHAT CONDITIONS as soon as we know them.

2.Let me thank you for continuing to contribute your Tithes and Offerings. Mowing, electricity, mission giving, and many other reasons
are our motivation for giving. However, our greatest motivation is that we love Jesus.

We love you!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter May 3rd

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

This week I had mentally written three different Newsletters. I just could not decide which one to use. Then, suddenly, the Holy Spirit
pointed me in a totally different direction. I love it when He does that because I know He has someone in mind who needs to hear that particular
message. Maybe you are that person this week.

The Spirit pointed me to Isaiah 40:31 “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength;, they shall mount up with wings as eagles;
they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint”. 

That is such a precious Word for the hour you and I now experience.  “Wait” can have at least two meanings. 1. Wait, can mean that joyful
anticipation we have of: a special loved one coming to see us, or a special day such as our 16th birthday and a drivers license, or the
wonders of Christmas morning.. 2. Wait can also paint the picture of a waiter or waitress. A person who is good at that job pays very close
attention to the needs and desires of the people at their assigned table. Thus, when we are told to “wait” upon the Lord it means that we
are to pay extra special attention to Him, be obedient to His directions for our lives, and to anticipate that out of this wonderful time with
our Savior will come many exciting blessings.

Notice what we are promised in Isaiah

1. Renewed strength—Whatever it is you need, physical, mental, emotional, strength, God will give it to you.

2. Mount up on wings as eagles—You soar closer to your Lord and you soar above the problems, trials, and tribulations of the world. The
higher you soar and the closer you draw near to Heaven, the smaller the troubles of the world look.

3. Run and not be weary—

4.  Walk and not faint—Every day you run your race of life. You walk the paths that are laid out for you. Job, family, the devil’s attacks,
the list of things that tax your energy and threaten to overwhelm you are many.

HOWEVER, because you have been “waiting” upon the Lord, you are an over-comer.!!! God empowers you to live each day in power and victory.
It is His majestic might and glory so He gets the credit and honor. BUT, it is you who enjoys the benefit of that relationship you have with
Jesus.

This verse from Isaiah has been made into a praise chorus. {If I tried to sing it for you your computer might explode in laughter}. After
singing the verse as it is written, this is added :”Teach me Lord, teach me Lord, to wait”.

This week, I encourage you to spend extra time “waiting upon the Lord”.  You will be blessed as you do so!!! Your Heavenly Father’s arms are open
wide as He says to you, “Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”. Matthew 11:28

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. Thank you for continuing to serve the Lord with your tithes and offerings. You are making a difference in the mission and ministry of
Barbee’s Grove.

2. Continue to pray, call, write, and minister to one another.

3. Let your Deacon know if we can be of help.

4. Thank you for your kind words concerning this Newsletter. It is my honor from the Lord to be able to write you each week

5. As the Lord leads, pray for us about 1:00 pm each Saturday. That is when we gather to tape the service for the next day.

Brothers and Sisters in Jesus, we love you

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church.

Newsletter April 26

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

When we first heard about the corona virus I preached a sermon on “The sky is falling”. I had no idea then how prophetic that message would be.

I try to watch and read only a little bit of news. What I do understand can lead to fear, misunderstanding and confusion. You know how it goes:
“Take this, it will help, no do not take it”; “Wear a mask, no a mask is not needed”;Restart the economy, no it is too early to restart”; We have
passed the peak, no the peak is still ahead of us”;”If you think it is bad now just wait” etc. Then watch the Stock Market—up hundreds of
points one day and down hundreds the next. Our world thinks “the sky is falling”.

I believe that there are two reasons the Lord has led me to write and preach themes of peace and victory this past month.

1. Our Father God loves us and wants us to be assured that we can live in peace, joy, and victory in a troubled world. I am as human as you
are. The devil wants us to live in fear and dread. Several times a day he rings the doorbell of my mind and gives me a reason to be afraid. I
have to go to the door, tell him he is not welcome. Then when I begin to sing “Victory in Jesus” the devil jumps off my porch and leaves me alone
for a time. When he returns, I start singing again. You can do the same!!

2. Our Lord wants us to be a positive witness to each other, the unsaved world, and to our weaker spiritual brothers and sisters. Remember, Jesus
teaches in Matthew 5 that we are “salt and light” and as others study our lives they see something so wonderful in us that they “glorify our
Father in Heaven”.. Isaiah 35:3 tells us to “Strengthen the weak hands and confirm the feeble knees”. In fact, that entire chapter of Isaiah is
worth your time to study. It tells of joy and victory. Also, David, as a shepherd boy, learned that he “could walk through the valley of the
shadow of death and fear no evil”. [Psalm 23] Why could David say that?  Because he knew that God was with him to protect and to comfort. David’s Lord is your Lord if you believe in Jesus.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1. Continue to pray for our church.

2. Thank you for your tithes and offerings and your special mission gifts. You are making a significant difference in the lives of the children at our N.C. Baptist Children’s Homes.

3. Continue to pray for those on the front lines in the medical profession as they deal with this disease. Remember, there are those in our on church who fight this battle every day.

4. We continue to be thankful for those who come each week to tape our services for the website. Let them know you appreciate their labor of
love.

5.Would you join me again this Wednesday [29th] at 7:00 pm for a time of prayer? Paul tells a church that he is “with them in spirit”. In the
spiritual realm our spirits can be joined as one spirit even though we are miles apart. If you are praying with others, I recommend
“conversational prayer”. As the Lord leads, each of you prays about a need and then you move on to the next need. Pamela and I enjoy doing
this when we pray together.

Be especially blessed of the Lord this week. He is “King of Kings and Lord of Lords”

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter April 19

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Pamela and I have a friend in the mountains named Della. Recently, Della posted something on Facebook that the Lord used to inspire the article
that follows.

Read Exodus 20:1-7. Let me quote three phrases from those verses: “I am the Lord thy God’,” Thou shalt have no other gods before Me”, “I, the
Lord thy God am a jealous God”.  The Lord makes it plain that He is NUMBER ONE and we need to believe it. Has it been that way? What is the
result?

  1. We worshiped sports and athletes. Now there are no sports.

  2. We worshiped money. Yet we have learned that millions in investments could quickly disappear.

  3.We worshiped movie stars and musicians. Now theaters and concert halls are closed.

  4.We worshiped education. Now many schools are closed.

  5. We worshiped freedom. Now we are told to stay at home.

  6. Some worshiped their local church. Now those churches are empty.  Others who said they were believers shunned the church. Now they could
not go even if it was their desire to attend.  Is it not interesting that so much of what we have worshiped has been taken away from us?

GOD DID NOT SEND THE CORONA VIRUS TO PUNISH US FOR OUR IDOLATRY!! This evil comes from the devil. James 1:7 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above”. John 10:10 tells us that “The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy but that Jesus comes to give abundant life”.  Always remember:,If it is good, it comes from God: if it is bad, it comes from the devil.

God has used what the devil meant for evil to remind us that He is the only One worthy of worship. May we turn back to our Lord in repentance
and commitment.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS

1.We thank Brenda, Tonda, Leonard, and Wes for preparing our special Easter Service. It was a blessing. Beginning this week, we will have a
fresh service on the website each week. Invite others to join in hearing the service with you.

2.The regular Quarterly Conference has been postponed until we are meeting regularly.

3. Our planned Week of Prayer had to be canceled. However, we invite each of you to join us in a time of prayer this Wednesday, April 22 at
7:00 pm. Pray alone or with your family. It could be a wonderful teaching time for your kids. Remember it is the same distance to Heaven
from your house and from my house. Pray for our church, pray for our nation, pray for those on the front lines dealing with this virus, pray
for revival, and pray for others the Lord brings to mind.

4. Now, what about that Stimulus check? For some of you it will be a lifesaver. You are out of work and need money to pay bills and to buy
food for your family. Be blessed with this money. Others of us have been doing well without that check. Suddenly we have extra money in our
account. What a great time to use a chunk of that money to bless our church and to meet needs of others. For example, our NC Baptist
Children’s Homes had to cancel their Spring Food Drive. They could use a gift at this time. If you put “Food Drive” on the envelope you mail to
the church, your money will be sent in Barbee’s Grove’s name. Perhaps you know of other needs or ministries that could use a special gift.
There is fun and joy in being able to generously give extra money to the Lord’s work. As the Good News of Jesus goes out on social media and as
extra money is given for the Lord’s causes, I think that the devil is probably sorry that he ever thought to inflict the corona virus upon our
world!!!!!!

Have a blessed week!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Easter Newsletter April 12

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Let us continue our thoughts from last week and see if we can give you some reasons to wake on Easter morning [and every other morning]
shouting “Glory to God, Hallelujah, Thank You Jesus, Praise the Lord”.

Two boxers enter the ring. Round after round they stand toe to toe, exchanging blows. It is a fearsome fight. There is no clear winner. The
three ringside judges confer, and the announcer says “It is a split decision. Boxer A has been declared the winner by a split decision.”

All over the world, millions of people think that Jehovah God and the devil are so evenly matched that the final outcome of world domination
is in doubt. Sadly, many Christians feel the same way, especially when it comes to the devil’s control in their everyday lives.

However, when we understand the true story, we will change our way of thinking. Here is the “real truth”. As we mentioned last week, in eons
past, the devil challenged Almighty God to a bout. The stakes were huge. It was “winner take all” for control of the universe.

They stepped into the ring. The bell rang. In a nanosecond, before the devil could even put up his fists, God by the Word of His Power, hit the
devil so hard that He knocked him out of the ring, out of the arena, out of the Kingdom {Heaven]! One mighty blow and the devil was vanquished!

Isaiah 14:12 says: “How art thou fallen from Heaven O Lucifer, son of the morning”. Jesus said:  “I beheld Satan as lightning fall from Heaven”. Luke 10:18

One punch from God and the devil flew backward out of Heaven like a bolt of lightning. No doubt about the winner of that battle!!!

About 2000 years ago there seemed to be a rematch on Calvary outside of Jerusalem. Strangely, this time, Jesus did not lift a hand. He stood,
arms at His side, as He absorbed blow after blow from the devil. Satan and his forces danced in glee as Jesus died.

What was happening? How do we explain it? Isaiah helps us to understand [53:5] “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed”

Jesus took those blows in order that our sin might be forgiven, that we might have peace with God, that our needs could be met, and that we
could be healed of our disease. Jesus put up no defense and took all that punishment so that all who believe by faith could be blessed.

Ah! But the bout was not over! The devil was about to get the shock of his life. As Paul states it in 1 Corinthians 2:8 “Which none of the
princes of this world knew; for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory”.

On Easter morning, Holy Spirit stepped back into the ring and delivered the devil a crushing, devastating blow. Paul reminds us in Colossians
2:15 “Having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” Hebrews 2:14 puts it this way
“….that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil”.

Once again, the devil was crushed!!!

Where does that leave you, Believer in Jesus?

You step into your corner of the ring. There is no need to be timid. In the other corner lies the devil, crushed, humiliated, defeated. You
remove the hood and robe that kept your identity hidden. The devil begins to tremble. He moans, Oh No, there is another one of those Spirit
Filled Believers in Christ who knows the truth of 1 John 4:4 “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world”. If the Holy Spirit
lives big in you, the devil immediately recognizes Him in you.

At that moment, the devil realizes that the same Awesome God who previously has defeated him, resides in you. He knows that his only
chance to defeat you is to use his loud mouth to confuse, or to bring doubt or fear.

Since we know that Jesus has already given us “power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy” [Luke
10:19], we can resist all of the devil’s ploys and we can walk in joy, health, freedom, forgiveness, and victory!!

The devil was loser of Round 1. He was defeated then! He is defeated now! He is defeated forever!

Almighty God was! is! and always will be! The Victor!! There is no doubt about the present or final outcome. Total and complete victory for “The
King of Kings and The Lord of Lords”.

As a Spirit filled Believer in Jesus, rejoice in that victory and live it in your own life on a daily basis. It is Easter. Let us give our LORD
a shout of praise!

Blessings in Jesus

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter April 5

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

The Apostle Paul would not be amazed at the present world situation. In fact, the Holy Spirit inspired Paul to write:”But understand this, that in the last days will come [set in] perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]”. 2 Timothy 3:1 God told us ahead of time that days like this were coming.

Jesus told us the exact same truth. In Matthew 24 Jesus tells of wars, pestilences, etc. that will come at the end of the age. Is that not what we are presently experiencing? In the context of that warning, Jesus says,”see that ye be not troubled”. Jesus is telling us that we get to choose. Believers can walk in faith and victory and not in fear.  Remember an established Biblical truth: Faith activates the power of God in any and every situation. Fear opens the door for the devil to work.  As I mentioned in an earlier Newsletter: “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and of a sound mind”. 2 Timothy 1:7

There is also an interesting comment in 1 Chronicles 12:32 that speaks to our day. Throughout the chapter there is mention of several of the
tribes of Israel. The context is how big their armies are. But of Issachar it says: “They were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” Evidently, there were some men in the tribe of Issachar who were walking so closely with the Lord that He had revealed to them His plan for the nation. Political leaders, scientists, medical personnel, are all scrambling to find solutions to our problem.  Now we need some men and women who are walking in a dynamic relationship with the Lord to hear from Heaven and to tell us what He says we ought to do!! God has the answer. Who is listening?

In the eons of time past, the devil grew proud and decided to replace Jehovah God on the throne of the universe. The devil lost that battle and has been losing ever since. He plans and schemes, thinking he is going to outwit God. Each time the Lord turns it around and God gets the victory and the glory. Hallelujah!!!

Listen to what our daughter, Sarah, wrote from Australia: “I believe with all my heart that we are living in the last days and seasons before the return of Christ. So many are anticipating great revival and the rapture of the church. This week, in connection with that, the massive flooding of God’s Word through the internet and social media that is happening in the midst of this international pandemic even more than ever before, has struck me….. And the significance of that in reaching our world both now and even after the rapture of the church. These are significant days in which we live!”

I agree with Sarah. Several times a day, Pamela comes to me with tears in her eyes and says: “Listen to what someone wrote on Facebook.” A few
of these writers are preachers. However, Most of them are just average Believers witnessing for their Lord. The devil thought he could close the churches and win the battle. Instead, normal Christians are being emboldened to share their faith, nominal Christians are being encouraged, backsliders are being challenged, and the unsaved are being bombarded with the wonderful news that Jesus is “King of Kings and Lord of Lords” and that He is marching on to victory! Praise His Name!

Additional News:

1. As you have heard, services at Barbee’s Grove have been canceled for April. You can always find messages on our website. Please listen.

2. A special Easter service will be aired on the website. Join us as we celebrate our Risen Lord.

3. As we move from March to April, let us remind you to continue to mail your Tithes and Offerings to P.O. Box 679, Oakboro NC 28129. Your gifts
are needed to keep our finances strong. Every gift brings praise to our Lord and causes the devil to groan in despair. Once again, Jesus wins and the devil loses.

Keep looking up. Jesus is coming soon!!!!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove Baptist Church

Newsletter March 29

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Which coat are you wearing today?

Each morning I get up and immediately have to decide what I will wear for the day. What type of pants are appropriate? Which shirt goes with
those pants? Do I add a tie? The choice is mine and mine alone. Unless you work in a job that requires a uniform, you also make the same
choices each day.  In our daily lives we choose what to wear each day. The same is true in our spiritual lives. Just at the moment you arise each morning the devil appears and says, “I have this nice coat for you. It has dreary, drab, dark colors. It is sewn from the fabrics of gloom, hopelessness, dread, and defeat. Best of all, it has Big pockets. All day long you can pick up new worries to put into those pockets. For example, you can put your worries about, ‘do I have enough toilet paper?, will I get this virus?, is my family safe?’ and anything else that you can dread. I like it when you wear this coat all day and sleep in it at night.”  On your other side, when you rise, is the Lord. He says,” I have a coat
that you can choose. It is the coat of praise. This coat is light and has glorious bright colors. It is sewn from the fabrics of peace, joy,
and the love of God. My coat also has pockets. The unique thing about these pockets is that they have holes in the bottom. Even if you pick up
a few worries during the day they slide out through the holes and are left in the path behind. You can sleep in this coat and awake rested and
at peace.”

In Isaiah 61:3 Jesus promises us that he can give us “the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness”. Personally, I much prefer that garment of praise!!.

How do we dress in this garment of praise?

1. Read or repeat praise Scriptures.

2. Sing praise choruses.

3. Sing hymns that emphasize the power and greatness of God—-such as, “How Great Thou Art”.

4. Express to the Lord thanksgiving and praise in your own words.

5. Instead of listening to the “gloom and doom” on TV all day, listen to worship music.

6. Continue to do 1-5 until you feel the heaviness lift and the joy comes.

7. Repeat as often as necessary.

In trying times like our present situation, it is so easy to fret and worry and to let fear rule our lives. Our Loving Lord wants us to live
above that fear. That is the reason He offers that wonderful garment of praise. Try it on for size. I guarantee it will fit and that you will
like it!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Other thoughts this week:

1. Last week, I mentioned keeping in touch through modern technology. My sweet wife, Pamela, reminded me that old fashioned cards and letters
also work. After thinking about it, I think she has a great idea.  Something on paper can be reread time after time. Do you have someone
you can thank, remember, appreciate, with a written word this week? Do you know a waitress, or some other person who is struggling financially
because their workplace is closed? If the Lord leads you to do it, place some cash in your letter. It is even more fun when you can do it
anonymously!

2.I know folks all around the nation who are strong in their faith. A few Sundays away from church will not deter their walk with the Lord,
nor their giving of tithes and offerings. However, what about those who were “barely hanging on”? If you know of someone like that, please spend extra time in praying for them. Our prayers could make the difference in their future salvation or their future walk with God.

3. As soon as our Deacons make a decision about canceling or holding future services, you will receive a “One-Call” letting you know.

We really did miss getting to see you folks last week. Sunday is just not the same without that precious fellowship.

Be blessed in Jesus!

Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove

Newsletter March 22

GREETINGS FROM BARBEE’S GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

When the Apostle Paul was away from the people and fellow believers that he loved, he often wrote them letters. I do not begin to compare with
Paul. However, I do want to keep in touch. Therefore, you are receiving this letter [some in paper form and some by email]. I am very thankful
that I am writing from the comfort of my home and not from a prison cell as Paul so often had to do.
As you know by now, we have canceled all activities and services at Barbee’s Grove for the next two weeks [March 22 and 29]. We will
reevaluate the situation after that. Romans 13:1 says that we are to be “subject to the higher powers” [the government]. In obedience to the
call from State and Federal authorities to have no large group meetings, we have canceled. We know that you understand.
Let me add some practical ideas:
1. Our Deacons are here to serve. If you or someone you know has a need, please contact your Deacon.
2.Expenses, such as electricity and insurance will continue in spite of the services being canceled. If you wish to continue to give your tithes
and offerings weekly, you may mail them to the church at Box 679 Oakboro, NC 28129.It would be helpful if they were mailed near the
weekend in order that they could be picked up and deposited on Monday. Please do not mail cash.
3.This is a wonderful time to strengthen your family. Think of those “old time” pioneers in the mountains and out on the prairies. When there
was no church or preacher available, they gathered at home, read and discussed the Bible and joined in prayer. It can be a precious time of
family and spiritual growth. It could also be a time of ministry as you invite a lonely neighbor to join your family.
4.This is not a time for panic or fear. As Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7, “God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love,
and of a sound mind.” Fear is from the devil, not from God.   Resist the devil in the strong Name of Jesus and receive God’s peace. As
Believers in Jesus we walk in the blessings of our Lord, even when the world is in turmoil. Jesus is Lord!!!
5. You can find previous messages from past Barbee’s Grove services on our website   www.barbeesgrove.com. You also may request CDs of past
services from your Deacon
6. There are some excellent ministers on TV and radio. Listen to one or more of them. If you hear something that you do not understand, make a
note of what was said and who said it. I will be happy to discuss your questions. You may have heard a new truth you never heard before, or you
could have heard someone who is in error. Let’s talk!
7. Stay in touch by telephone, email, text, and all those other technological advances that I do not begin to understand!!!
8. Spend much time in Prayer. Let us join in asking our Lord to bring genuine Holy Spirit revival to our nation and world. It becomes a time
of wonder and rejoicing when God takes what the devil meant for evil and turns it into a blessing. I am excited as I watch for our Lord to
glorify Himself and to bless us in the days that are coming. The Friday of the cross looked dark and hopeless. The Sunday of the resurrection
began a glorious day of joy, hope, salvation, and victory.  Jesus is still on the throne!!!

Be blessed of the Lord today Brothers and Sisters in the Lord
We love you in Jesus, 
Pastor Ed and Deacons of Barbee’s Grove