North Point Celebrate Recovery

WOMEN'S STEP STUDY BEGINS - MARCH 5TH

2012-01-27T21:56:00.000-08:00

ONLY

NORTH POINT CHURCH'S 5TH WOMEN'S STEP STUDY WILL BEGIN THIS COMING MONDAY MARCH 5TH AT 7PM UNTIL 8PM. IT WILL BE HELD AT NORTH POINT CHURCH 900 N LEWIS AVE. WINTHROP HARBOR, IL 60096 IN ROOM ONE.

YOUR LEADERS WILL BE SUE, SHARON & KATHY. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL SUE AT
847-309-0530 or SHARON AT 847-970-1696.

Celebrating Baby Sofia - Friday Jan 20th

2012-01-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

PLEASE JOIN US IN CELEBRATING ALEX'S NEW BABY GIRL.
PLEASE WEAR SOMETHING PINK IN HONOR OF SOPHIA (YES A PINK WRIST BAND IS OK).....WE WILL BE HAVING CAKE & OPENING ANY GIFTS
THAT ARE BROUGHT. SEE YOU THERE.

WE HAVE A NEW EMAIL ADDRESS

2012-01-12T22:48:00.000-08:00

WE HAD NO IDEA OUR OLD EMAIL ADDRESS WAS NOT
WORKING....BUT IT WASN'T! SO WE HAVE A NEW EMAIL
IT IS CJBBAB@YAHOO.COM. ALSO WE HAVE A NEW PHONE NUMBER
IT IS 224-577-9127.

GRATITUDE

2012-01-12T22:44:00.001-08:00

The lesson this week continues to focus on Principle 7 and Step 11, with a focus on gratitude.

Principle 7 states “Reserve a daily time with God for self-examination, Bible reading, and prayer, in order to know God and His will for my life and to gain the power to follow His will.”

Step 11 reads “We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and power to carry that out.”

The Principle and Step do not specifically state anything about gratitude or thankfulness, but it is implied as a way to apply the principle and steps in practical terms. Being thankful brings us closer to God by appreciating what He has done for us. The lesson reminds us to be thankful in four specific areas.

Be thankful to God.
Be thankful for others.
Be thankful for your recovery.
Be thankful for your church

And it recommends that we each build our own gratitude list focusing on these areas.

Friday December 23rd, 2011 - CR Servies Combined With NPCC Christmas Eve Worship

2011-12-22T21:12:00.000-08:00

WE WILL BE COMBINING OUR REGULAR 7PM FRIDAY NIGHT CR SERVICE WITH NORTH POINT CHRISTIAN CHURCH'S CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES. WE FIGURED THERE WOULD BE SO MUCH NOISE AND COMMOTION IT WOULD BE HARD TO HAVE OUR SERVICE AND WHAT GREAT 2ND OPTION. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

LIVE TESTIMONY

2011-11-30T20:36:00.000-08:00

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1ST AT 7PM, PLEASE JOIN US FOR A LIVE TESTIMONY. GIVING YOUR TESTIMONY
AS WELL AS HEARING A TRUE LIVE TESTIMONY CAN BE SO BENEFICIAL.

New American Standard Bible
A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,

PROVERS 1:5

We Will Be Celebrating A Baptism This Friday Night

2011-11-08T22:47:00.000-08:00

THAT'S RIGHT WE WILL BE CELEBRATING ANOTHER BAPTISM THIS FRIDAY NIGHT.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED ALSO IN BEING BAPTIZED, BRING AN EXTRA T-SHIRT & PANTS.

PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!

OCTOBER 28TH 7PM JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL NIGHT OF MUSIC BY A WONDERFUL WORSHIP TEAM

2011-10-22T23:03:00.000-07:00

DON'T MISS A GREAT NIGHT OF MUSIC

SMALL GROUP AFTER THE LARGE GROUP AS USUAL

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE

NEW CR STARTING UP IN BEACH PARK IL ON NOVEMBER 7TH AT 6:30 PM

2011-10-22T22:50:00.000-07:00

We are a light in the city reflecting the inclusive love of God. Comforted and challenged by the Gospel of Christ, we strive to be a welcoming, serving community. At the intersection of faith and life, we share God’s grace through worship, preaching, education, and ministries of healing, reconciliation, and justice. We affirm the worth of all and nurture each individual’s spiritual pilgrimage. Inspired by our heritage, we confront our future with hope and confidence in God’s purpose.

BEACH COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BEACH PARK IS "OUR JOE'S HOME CHURCH". WE ARE SO PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE FACT JOE HAS
HELPED TO ORGANIZE A MONDAY NIGHT CR AT BEACH COMMUNITY.

PLEASE JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THEM ON THEIR FIRST NIGHT MONDAY NOVEMBER 7TH AT 6:30PM. HEY ANY OF US CAN GO TO CR ON MONDAY NIGHTS AT BEACH & FRIDAY NIGHTS AT NORTH POINT.

GOD IS GOOD!!

BAPTISM NIGHT AT CR - FRIDAY NIGHT OCTOBER 14TH

2011-10-06T21:50:00.000-07:00

PLEASE PRAYERFUL CONSIDER IF IT IS YOUR TIME TO BE BAPTIZED. IF YOU HAVE ALREADY BEEN BAPTIZED PLEASE COME CELEBRATE WITH OUR BROTHERS & SISTERS WHO WILL BE

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE BAPTIZED, PLEASE BRING A T-SHIRT & SHORTS OR JOGGING PANTS.

THIS IS OUR FIRST CR BAPTISM NIGHT. YEAH

BLESSINGS TO ALL

NEW CR - BEACH COMMUNITY CHURCH NOV 7TH

2011-10-04T21:04:00.000-07:00

PLEASE JOIN OUR SISTER CR ON IT'S 1ST NIGHT
MONDAY NOVEMBER 7TH AT 6:45.

37283 N Green Bay Rd, Beach Park, IL

.

Sunday Sept 11th & Sept 18th

2011-09-10T21:23:00.000-07:00

PLAN ON VISITING ON OUR CELEBRATE OUR TABLE. FIND OUT WHAT CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS ABOUT AND HOW IT CAN HELP YOU RECOVERY FROM YOUR HURTS, HABITS AND HANG-UPS & DEVELOP A DEEP PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST, WHILE GAINING ACCOUNTABILITY FRIENDS & SPONSORSHIP WITH MORE SEASONED MEMBERS.

9:30 AM & 11 AM

TONIGHT AUGUST 5TH - E N O U G H

2011-08-05T08:05:00.000-07:00

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish you enough “Hello’s” to get you through the final “Goodbye.”

Poem : I Wish You Enough …
By Georgy ------

BOYCE RUMMAGE SALE

2011-08-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

AUGUST 19TH FRIDAY 7AM

August 20 SATURDAY 7AM

10485 Boyce Lane

Beach Park, IL 60087

COME ONE, COME ALL......SAVE MONEY & HELP

A GOOD CAUSE!!!!!!!!!!!!

SEE YOU THRE

B I L L B R O O K S

2011-08-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

BILL BROOKS WOWED OUR GROUP!!!!!

HOW HE HAS NEVER WON A GRAMMY, WE WILL NEVER KNOW!

& HE DESERVES A GRAMMY FOR HIS TESTIMONY. WOW...WOW...

WHAT A GENEROUS MAN TO TRAVEL SO MUCH TO ENLIGHTEN SO MANY TO THE TROUBLE OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL & SELFISHNESS!!!!!!

THANKS BILL - I DON'T KNOW HOW WE COULD EVER REPAY YOU.

Friday July 29th 7pm Open Large Group Meeting

2011-07-15T22:41:00.000-07:00

Howdy Friends

I am Bill Brooks, a Christian Country/ country gospel musician.
I was born and raised in the Appalachian foothills of rural southeastern Ohio.
Music has always been a large part of my life. I sang in choirs at school and church. Played in the high school marching band. And was the frontman for many rock, country and folk groups. 2008 will mark 40 years in the music biz as I performed my first pro gig at the age of 14 .The sad realization is that for 35 of those years I performed either drunk or high. I stumbled though life a dead man walkin'. I gave up on my Lord, my family, my wife, my children, my friends, my music, everything. Then on December 23, 2002, I gave up on life. But someone had not given up on me.. That was my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I was sober for the next 45 days, but not happy. Then one evening I was sitting in my truck, when for the first time in my life I opened up my heart and asked for help.
My prayers were answered.
I am such a blessed man.
I now dedicate my life and my talents to sing a new song with a new heart. A song of praise to The Lord..
In March of 2007 I was called by The Lord to sell our home, move into a fifth-wheel travel trailer, and along with my wife and best friend Judy,we have hit the road to serve the Lord and I've been sharing my music and testimony with Christ based recovery groups, churches, Christian coffee houses, correctional institutions and any other door that The Master opens.
Our music ministry never seeks a fee for sharing our music and testimony with the groups or churches we visit. If the heart is moved to offer a love gift then it would be so greatly appreciated..
My ministry is not sponsered by any church, group or organization.
I hope you will be moved to request one of my cds.
All ordering info available at my website: www.billbrooksmusic.com
Thanks so much for all the love and support we have received and continue to receive each and every day

GRACE - FRIDAY JULY 15TH 7PM

2011-07-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Recovery Lesson 18: Grace (Notes from tonights meeting)

Principle 6 - Evaluate all my relationships; Offer forgiveness to those who have hurt me and make amends for harm I've done to others except when to do so would harm them or others.

"Happy are the merciful" "Happy are the peacemakers"
Matthew 5:7 and 5:9

Step 9 - 9) Made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. (Matthew 5:23-24)

God's Gift - 1 Peter 1:13

Receive by our faith - Ephesians 2:8-9

Accepted by God's love - Matthew 6:14

Christ paid the price - Ephesians 1:7

Everlasting gift - Philippians 1:6

In what ways have you experienced God's GRACE in your recovery?

As I begin my journey in recovery I have received God's gift of grace by faith not by my works. I have been accepted by God's love that Christ paid for so that I may have this gift forever until the day that Jesus returns. In my recovery it is only through God's grace that I will be able to overcome my hurts, habits and hangups.

2 Corinthians 12:9 - His grace is enough

Additional Scriptures/ Notes to Read:

Gifts are given w/o getting in return - Romans 3:12

1 Peter 1:13

Not by works - Ephesians 2:8-9
Trusting Christ & counting on Him alone - Philippians 3:9
Romans 5:2

Lord forgave you - Colossians 3:13

Hebrews 4:16
Ephesians 1:7
2 Thessalonians 2:16

2011-07-08T22:03:00.001-07:00

About Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a complex concept that is often misunderstood. It is a process that affects one's thinking, behavior, and feelings. Following the path of forgiveness not only offers release from the hurt and pain experienced, but also freedom in the present and hope for a better future.

Quotes on Forgiveness

“Without forgiveness there is no future… When something is unforgiven, it has physical consequences for us. Unforgiven tension, unforgiven sin, actually has a deleterious impact on the person.”
Desmond Tutu, Exploring Forgiveness

“If you cannot free people from their wrongs and see them as the needy people they are, then you enslave yourself to your own painful past. By fastening yourself to the past, you let your hate become your future.”
Lewis Smedes, Forgive and Forget

"If we really want to love, we must learn how to forgive."
Mother Teresa

"The weak can never forgive, it is the attribute of the strong."
Mahatma Gandhi

"Most people think that granting forgiveness is simply a blank check to allow the offender back into their lives simply to trample on their heart again. Nothing could be further from the truth."
Doug Schmidt, The Prayer of Revenge

“There is a time to tear and a time to mend.”
Ecclesiastes 3: 1-15

"When you plant lettuce, if it does not grow well, you don't blame the lettuce. You look for reasons it is not doing well. It may need fertilizer, or more water, or less sun. You never blame the lettuce. Yet, if we have problems with our friends or family, we blame the other person. But if we know how to take care of them, they will grow well, like the lettuce. Blaming has no positive effect at all, nor does trying to persuade using reasons and arguments. That is my experience. No blame, no reasoning, no argument, just understanding."
Thich Nhat Hahn

STARTING SUNDAY JULY 3RD AT 11AM ROOM 1

2011-06-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

YEAH!!! CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS STARTING ANOTHER NEW WOMEN'S STEP STUDY GROUP. WE WILL BE MEETING IN ROOM 1 (I THINK THAT IS THE CORRECT ROOM) DURING 2ND SERVICE. SO GO TO THE FIRST SERVICE AT 9:30AM IF YOU WANT TO HEAR THE SERMON & JOIN US AT 11:00AM FOR THE STEP STUDY GROUP

WHAT IS A CR STEP STUDY:

A Step Study group meets in a group setting & is a personal journey through the spiritual steps in a confidential group lead by a facilitator. There are specific workbooks that are used to complete the study. When you finish the study you will have worked your hurts, habits, and hang-ups through each step. In the Step Studies everyone may be encouraged to share in the discussion as the questions are asked. Passing during sharing time is always an option.

Celebrate Recovery uses the twelve steps and its related scripture as the biblical model for living your life. A step study is a personal journey through each of these steps in a confidential group led by a facilitator who has completed the steps. We use Celebrate Recovery’s four participant books. All step study meetings are gender specific.
YOUR FACILITATORS FOR THIS STEP STUDY WILL BE DEBBI HARRIS & CAROLYN BAKKEN

MARRIAGE STRUGGLES

2011-06-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

MARRIAGE ISSUES ARE ONE OF THE "HURTS, HABITS & HANGUPS" CELEBRATE RECOVERY DEALS WITH.

DEALING WITH THE "HURTS" BEFORE THEY BECOME DEEP WOUNDS, IS SOMETHING THE 12 STEPS & 8 PRINCIPLES CAN HELP YOU ACCOMPLISH.

PUTTING GOD FIRST IN YOUR MARRIAGE IS BY FAR THE FIRST THINGS THAT IS NEEDED, YOUR SPOUSE SHOULD BE SECOND, YOUR CHILDREN THIRD & FAMILY & FRIENDS FOURTH.

ANOTHER IMPORTANT ELEMENT IS TO NIGHTLY (OR IN AM) READ A DEVOTION OUT LOUD TOGETHER & PRAY OUT LOUD TOGETHER. EVERY NIGHT!

READY? Lesson 14

2011-05-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

SOME TIMES WE FEEL OUR PROBLEMS ARE NOT THAT BIG....NOT BIG ENOUGH TO REACH OUT. BUT GOD HAS INSTRUCTED US TO DO JUST THAT. IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM OR KNOW OF SOMEONE WHO DOES. ENCOURAGE THEM TO CHECK OUT CR - WE MEET EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT AT 7PM. PARK IN THE BACK & ENTER IN THE SOUTH-WEST ENTRANCE. WE MEET IN ROOM 116.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU.

ARE YOU READY?

2011-05-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Phil (who looks a bit like Anderson Cooper) will be giving our lesson.

Celebrate Recovery Lesson 14: READY

1. Admitted we were powerless over our addictions and compulsive behaviors, and admitted that our lives had become unmanageable.

2. We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity
3. We made a decision to turn our lives and our wills over to the care of God
4. We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.

But now is not the time to stop, settle down, and get lazy! In fact, our recovery is not inert. Our recovery involves constant motion, constant activity.

Lesson 14: Ready, is a compilation of Principle 5: Voluntarily submit to every change God wants to make in my life and humbly ask Him to remove my character defects. “Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires.” Matthew 5:6.
And Step 6: We were entirely ready to have God remove all those defects of character. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. “ James 4:10.

A lot of the Celebrate Recovery material refers to this Lesson as where the children separate from the adults, because up until this point, we’ve done a lot of admitting to ourselves and before God, of our wrongs.

But now? We must give up, and let go, of some of our very own personality traits that make up our character. Even though we are very willing to have certain character defects go away, some are hard for us to give up, and after all, involve CHANGE…which is one of our biggest fears.

And some of our character defects are hard to give up, because we don’t see them as defects. For instance, as a victim of abuse, PRIDE, I felt, helped me stand up for myself, take action, not be a doormat.

GREED made me protective of my income, my home, my job, but also isolated me my own prison of solitude—the very thing I was afraid of!

LYING, I thought, helped me reassure family and close Christian friends that I did not have any addictions.

There was that time in my life, my moment of clarity, when I wanted to die, and instead reached out to God…but was I ready to stop lying? Ready to stop being greedy, ready to HUMBLE myself?

We’ve all spent a lot of time indulging our character defects, whatever they may be. In fact, that is why we’re attending Celebrate Recovery! It’s all an effort to remove these character defects, so that God’s glory shines through.

Now, however is not the time to indulge those defects. Now is the time to humble ourselves and admit to ourselves PRIDE, GREED, LIES, whatever your defect ARE INDEED defects, and they are stifling and disabling our healing, and our efforts to lead purposeful, God-filled lives.

So we’ve done a lot of work, and have come to this principle, lesson, and step.

You and God, together, are going after those defects. ALL of them.

I am a word person, I love words, semantics…so the first word that popped into my mind about lesson 14 was: Humility. So tonight, let’s try to remember: Humility is not a character defect!

When you think of the world humility, what person comes to mind? I don’t know about you, but I always think of Jesus, and I live to be more like Jesus, so I must be humble.

Let’s put this thought in our hearts and minds: Father, I am nothing, without Jesus, who is everything.

And with that in our hearts…let’s go to the first letter of Ready.

R: RELEASE control. I call this The Codependents NIGHTMARE.

In Principle 5, you must be willing to let God into every area of your life. He can’t come in and clean up an area until you are ready and willing to ask Him.

In much of the CR material, I found the following quote. It’s never referenced, so I don’t know where it was generated, but it’s a good analogy.

“Willingness is the key that goes into the lock and opens the door that allows God to begin to remove your character defects. “

Listen to what David says in Psalm 143:10: “Help me to do your will, for you are my God. Lead me in good paths, for your Spirit is good.”

God is a gentleman. He doesn’t force His will on us. He waits for us to invite Him in.

RELEASE control. Let go and Let God.

E: Easy Does It! This would probably be the prideful person’s nightmare!

These wonderful principles and steps are not quick fixes. We must learn to apply them day by day, or in my case, minute by minute, thought by thought. God needs time to work in our lives. And we’re not just stopping our bad behaviors and habits, our sins.
Our sin is a symptom of the character defect.

Let’s think about that for a moment: our sin, is our addiction, be it alcohol, drugs, sexual integrity. Imagine your “sin” as a weed in a garden. How do you get rid of weeds? You don’t just address the surface and make it temporarily disappear. You must pull it out by the roots.

The roots are the actual defects of character that cause the sin. In my case, the major sin in my life was alcohol. That was the act, the sin. The defect of character that caused the sin was lack of a positive self image, and mainly FEAR that cause me to sin by abusing alcohol.

It takes time to dig beneath the surface of our sin, to uncover the character defects that cause us to sin. And it’s more difficult to let go of these character defects, especially since we’ve given up the sins…but giving up the sins is only half the battle! If we don’t let go of the character defects, we will continue to sin.

So go easy, but do go forward. Allow God time to work. He will do it. He promised! Again, who better than David knew this:

Psalm 37:5 says “Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him to help you do it, and HE will.”

A: ACCEPT the Change

Yes, I said ACCEPT. Change is tough…we think we’ve mastered our sin when we see the need for change, but that is simply not so.

Seeing the need for change and allowing the change to occur are two different things.

The space between recognition and willingness can be, most assuredly will be filled with fear. And, FEAR triggers our old dependency on self. Right?

Again, remember humility. This principle will not work if we are still trapped by our self will. We need to be ready to accept God’s help throughout the transition.

1 Peter 1:13-14 says: “So then, have your minds ready for action. Keep alert and set your hope completely on the blessing which will be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. Be obedient to God, and do not allow your lives to be shaped by those desires you had when you were still ignorant.”

Ultimate surrender.

James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
All we need is the willingness to let God lead us on our road to recovery.

D: DO Replace Your Character Defects

Y: YIELD to the Growth.
Speaking of being sensitive to nuances, feelings, you are at war with yourself.

The Holy Spirit is working in you.

Principal 4 Lesson 13

2011-05-09T21:28:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Recovery at First Dallas
Skip to contentHomeCategories & ArchivesInformation ← Have I projected my own feelings onto God?Heal the Wound by Point of Grace →June 29, 2010 · 9:59 am ↓ Jump to CommentsAdmit
Principle 4: Openly examine and confess my faults to myself, to God and to someone I trust.

“Happy are the pure in heart.” Matthew 5:8

Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:16

Many of us have been keeping secrets almost all of our lives. Each day, these secrets take a toll on us – they steal away our self respect and energy and they keep us in bondage to our old co-dependent habits. In this step, we are to admit “to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs” but we are afraid to reveal these deep dark secrets to someone else. It makes us feel vulnerable. We fear ridicule, rejection, and criticism. We feel like we would have nothing to gain and everything to lose. But as we discover as we work this step – we have everything to gain!

1.We gain the healing that the Bible promises. James 5:16 says: “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” The verse doesn’t say “Confess your sins…. and you will be forgiven.’ God has already forgiven you when you confessed your sins to Him. No – it says so that you will be healed. God promises the healing process will begin when you confess your sins to another. What an amazing promise from God!
2.We gain freedom. Our secrets have kept us in bondage and in chains – most of us have unable to move forward in any of our relationships – either with God or others. Admitting our sins snaps those chains so God’s healing power can start. “They cried to the Lord in their troubles, and He rescued them! He led them from the darkness and the shadow of death and snapped their chains.” (Psalms 107:13-14). Remember – you are only as sick as your secrets. If we don’t confess our sins, they will fester. In Psalm 32:3-4, David tells us what happened to him when he tried to hide his sins: “When I did not confess my sins, I was worn out from crying all day long….My strength was completely drained.” Remember – openness is to wholeness as secrets are to sickness.” Admit and turn from your sins. Remember that the only sin God can’t forgive is the one that is not confessed.
3. We gain support. When you share your inventory with another person, you will get support. That person can keep you focused and provide feedback. When denial begins to surface and you begin to hear Satan whispering those excuses in your ear – “it’s not really that bad” or “it wasn’t really your fault” your support person can be there to challenge you with the truth and hold you accountable. But most of all, you just need someone to simply listen to you and hear what you have to say.
As you work this step, you will come to understand that your sins have been forgiven and you will experience freedom from your hurts, habits and hang-ups. As your fear and guilt fade away, you will begin to see God’s plan and purpose for your life.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

2011-04-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

FOR MORE INFO ON VOUNTEERING, EMAIL MINDY AT MINDY@NORTHPOINTCHURCH.ORG

The Burbidge's In Zimbabwe

2011-04-22T21:18:00.000-07:00

Missions Update
North Point helps support Mark and Meaghan Burbidge in Chiredzi, Zimbabwe. Mark sent an update recently, which is included at the close of the email. If you wish to express your support or to encourage them in their ministry, you may reach them at markburbz@gmail.com.

What’s Wrong With Easter? - FamilyLife.com

2011-04-20T05:48:00.000-07:00

What’s Wrong With Easter? - FamilyLife.com

2011-04-10T06:20:00.000-07:00

We begin with the “C” for Confess. Confess your shortcomings and resentments. Proverbs 28:13 says: “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” This may not always seem to be the case when we think we see people getting away with their sins, but it is God’s promise to us, that we find mercy when we confess our sins. The next letter is “O” for Obey. Obey God’s directions. Romans 14:11-12 says: ”It is written: " 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.' "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” God holds us accountable for our sins, to confess them, even if he promises forgiveness. That should make us think twice before committing sin or reverting to old behaviors, by thinking how difficult it is for us to admit our sins to another person; how much more difficult that will be to admit each one to God. And this verse from James reminds us that obedience to God leads to greater effectiveness of our prayers. Sin can block our prayers from being heard or answered. James 5:16: ”Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” The next letter is “N” for No more guilt Romans 3:23-24 says: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Christ’s forgiveness wipes our slate clean when we confess our sins to Him. The “F” in Confess stands for Face the truth John 8:12 says: “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." And John 8:32 says: “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Knowing God is knowing truth. Light. Being out of the darkness. Confessing our sin brings us into the light. No more hiding. No more shame. No more fear of being found out. The “E” stands for Ease the pain Psalm 32:3-5 says: “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD "— and you forgave the guilt of my sin.” Our sin can bring a lot of pain, and covering up that sin and living in fear of someone finding out can bring us more emotional and mental pain. But when we confess it to God, his forgiveness lifts the burden from our hearts. Our full strength is restored since we don’t have to keep wasting it on hiding or denying. The first “S” tells us to Stop the blame Matthew 7:3 says: “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” If we spend too much time and focus blaming others for our misfortunes or defects of character, we miss the issues in our own life that our causing our problems. Better to clean up our own act first before we start taking others’ inventories. And the last “S” stands for Start accepting God’s forgiveness 2 Cor. 5:19 says: “that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” That is the main thrust of the fourth principle, to confess our sins and our faults, so that Christ will forgive us and purify us. We have to start by confessing to ourselves so that we no longer live in denial of the things we have done, and by confessing them to God to restore our right relationship with him, but then also to someone we trust, which we find in the Celebrate Recovery program helps us by not only getting us to be honest, but also to build support and accountability with another person, and also so we can have someone we trust to pray for us about some of the most intimate details of our lives. If we do this, Christ promises to not count our sins against us, and He reconciles us to Himself. Freedom from guilt and shame. Freedom to grow in recovery. Forgiven. Amen.

New Biblical Weight Loss Bible Study At NPC

2011-04-04T20:13:00.000-07:00

WE ARE SO EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE A NEW BIBLE STUDY AT NORTH POINT, THAT IS FOCUSED ON A SPIRITUAL APPROACH TO LOSING WEIGHT. SUE RILEY HAS BEEN GENEROUS ENOUGH TO GIVE OF HER TIME TO LEAD THE GROUP. THE GROUP MEETS ON MONDAY NIGHTS AT 7PM AND GOES FOR APPROX AN HOUR. JUST HEAD OVER TO ROOM 108 LOCATED IN THE NORTH WING. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL 847-746-5522 & LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR SUE.

Your Hands with Lyrics JJ Heller

2011-03-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

Michael W Smith - "Bridge Over Troubled Water"

2011-03-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

PLEASE PRAY FOR

2011-03-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

OUR OWN STEVE....HE IS HAVING HIS 8TH BACK SURGERY

THIS WEEK....FEEL FREE TO CALL HIM & GIVE HIM A

ROUND OF ENCOURAGEMENT (224)441-1051

FRIDAY MARCH 4TH - PIZZA NIGHT

2011-03-02T20:57:00.000-08:00

BRING YOUR APPETITE

SEE YOU AT 7PM

Chris Medina - What Are Words

2011-03-02T06:30:00.000-08:00

PRAYER REQUESTS

2011-02-21T19:26:00.000-08:00

WE HUMBLY ASK FOR YOUR PRAYERS FOR THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE & SITUATIONS:

JUSTIN & HIS GROUP HEADING TO INDIA

SHARON FINDING EMPLOYMENT

CHRISTINE FINDING EMPLOYMENT

DONNIE & A COMPLETE LIFESTYLE CHANGE

DEBBI & HER HEALTH & INSURANCE ISSUES

BEN HARMAN'S FAMILY, ESPECIALLY LOGAN & JACKSON

I N V E N T O R Y

2011-02-20T20:14:00.000-08:00

LESSON 10: SPIRITUAL INVENTORY

Everyone has three different characters:
1. The one we exhibit
2. The one we think we have.
3. The one we truly have.
Ps 139:23-24 – Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Isa 1:18 – Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

I. RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS
Mt 6:12-13 – 12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.[a]‘
Mt 6:43-47 – 43″You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[h] and hate your enemy.’ 44But I tell you: Love your enemies[i] and pray for those who persecute you, 45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
- Who has hurt you? How did they specifically hurt you?
- Who are you holding a grudge against? (Seeking revenge?)
- Who are you jealous of? Why?
- Who have you hurt? How did you hurt them?
- Who have you been critical of or gossiped about? Why?
- How have you attempted to place the blame on someone else?
- What new healthy relationships have you developed since you have been in recovery?

II. PRIORITIES IN LIFE
Mt 6:33 – But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
1 Cor 10:31 – So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
- What areas of your life have you been able to turn over to your Higher Power, Jesus Christ?
- In what areas of your life are you still not putting God first? Why not?
- What in your past is keeping you from seeking and following God’s will for your life?
- Number the following list in order of your personal priorities.
____ career
____ family
____ church
____ Christ
____ friendships
____ money
____ ministry
- What are your personal goals for the next ninety days? (Keep it simple!)
III. ATTITUDE
Eph 4:31 – 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Rom 12:18 – If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Phil 2:3 – Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.
- What areas in your life are you thankful for?
- In the past, what things have you been ungrateful over?
- What causes you to lose your temper?
- To whom have you been sarcastic to in the past? (Give examples)
- What in your past are you still worried about?
- How has your attitude improved since you have been in recovery?

IV. INTEGRITY
Col 3:9 – Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices
2 Cor 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

- In the past, how have you exaggerated to make yourself look good?
- Does your walk as a Christian match your talk? Are your actions the same at recovery meetings, church, home and work?
- In what areas of your past have you used false humility to impress someone?
- Have any of your past business dealings been dishonest? Have you ever stolen things?

SPONSOR

2011-02-03T20:18:00.000-08:00

LESSON 8 – SPONSOR

Principle 4: Openly examine and confess my faults to myself, to God, and to someone I trust.

Step 4: We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.

Lam 3:40 – Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.

We need 3 relationships – Jesus Christ, church family (recovery group), and sponsor.

An inventory without a sponsor is like peeling an onion to find the core—you’re left with peelings and tears.

Moral inventory – getting rid of “truth” decay
Pr 15:14 – The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.
1. Why do I need a sponsor and/or an accountability partner?
2. What are the qualities of a sponsor?
3. What does a sponsor do?
4. How do I find a sponsor and/or an accountability partner?
5. What is the difference between a sponsor and an accountability partner?
Why do I need a Sponsor and/ or an Accountability Partner?
a. Biblical
Ecc 4:9-12 – 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: 10 If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Pr 27:17 – As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another
One another – used over fifty times in the NT
b. Key part of recovery program (4 key aspects)
1. Maintaining an honest view of reality as you work each step
2. Make attendance at recovery group a priority in your schedule
3. Maintain relationship with Christ – prayer, meditation, and study of His Word.
4. Get involved in service.
c. Best guard against relapse
Ecc 7:5 – It is better to heed a wise man’s rebuke than to listen to the song of fools

What are the qualities of a sponsor?

Pr 20:5 – The purposes of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.

1. Does the walk match the talk?
2. A growing relationship with Christ?
3. An expressed desire to help others on the road to recovery?
4. Compassion, care, hope, but not pity?
5. A good listener?
6. Strong enough to confront your denial or procrastination?
7. Offer suggestions?
8. Can they share their own current struggles with others?

What is the role of a sponsor?

1. Can discuss issues in detail that are too personal or would take too much time in a meeting. The sponsor’s role is to model Christ’s forgiveness, grace and give a sense of perspective.
2. Available in times of crisis.
3. Serves as a sounding board by providing an objective point of view.
4. There to encourage you to work the principles at your own speed.
5. Attempts to model the lifestyle that results from working the principles
6. A sponsor can resign or be fired.

How do I find a sponsor/accountability partner.

1. Member of the same sex.
2. Can you relate to their story.
3. Invest some time in fellowship.
4. Do not take a “no” as a personal rejection.
5. Ask God to lead you to the sponsor of His choosing.

Sponsor – has completed the four Celebrate Recovery participant’s guides and has worked through the eight principles and the 12 steps.

Accountability partner can be at the same level – can have a “team” approach – Sponsor is the “coach”.

Growth Groups? 12 Step Programs?

2011-01-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

GROWTH GROUPS? 12 STEP PROGRAMS? WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? NOT MUCH. WE ALL STRUGGLE. WE ALL SELF-MEDICATE WITH ONE THING OR ANOTHER.

THE BOTTOM LINE IS WE ALL WANT A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. CR PROVIDES YOU WITH THE TOOLS TO DO JUST THAT.

Free Zumba Classes

2011-01-22T11:41:00.000-08:00

CLASSES ARE:
MONDAY'S 5:15 TO 6:15 PM &
SATURDAY'S 8:15 TO 9:15 AM

AT.......

Wesley Church
3601 N. Lewis Ave
Beach Park, IL 60087
847-336-1940
Email: office@wesleyfmc.org
Website: www.wesleyfmc.org

LOOKING FOR A THURSDAY NIGHT CELEBRATE RECOVERY PROGRAM?

2011-01-21T20:47:00.000-08:00

THE WELL -CHURCH
9001 - 17th AVE., KENOSHA WI 53142
(not far from the Keno Drive-In)

HAS JUST STARTED A THURSDAY NIGHT CR GROUP. THE GROUP RUNS FROM 6:30- 8:30PM. FOR MORE INFO CALL ADAM AT (847)693-9849.

The Good-O-Meter

2011-01-06T22:12:00.000-08:00

ACTION - Lesson 6

2010-12-27T20:17:00.000-08:00

LESSON 6 ACTION

Principle 3: Consciously choose to commit all my life and will to Christ’s care and control.
Step 3: We made a decision to turn our lives and our wills over to the care of God.

Accept
Commit
Turn it over
It’s only the beginning
One day at a time
Next step

ACCEPT – The first step – Accept Jesus Christ as your Higher Power and Savior!

This is a once in a lifetime decision:
Rom 10:9 – That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Heb 13:5b – “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Rom 8:1 – Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

COMMIT – Willpower becomes the willingness to accept God’s power to guide your life. Tension between all about me and all about God.
2 Tim 1:7 – For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
1 Jn 4:4 – You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
Ps 143:10 – Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

TURN IT OVER – “Let go and let God”
Pr 3:6 – in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
In everything you do…not just some things
Mt 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Eph 6:13 – Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

IT’S ONLY THE BEGINNING – The miracle doesn’t happen overnight
Phil 1:6 – being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Recovery is not a 3 principle program – it’s just the beginning of a new life lived….

ONE DAY AT A TIME – if we remain stuck in the yesterday or constantly worry about tomorrow; we will waste the precious time of the present. It is only in the present that change and growth can occur. We can’t change yesterday and we can only pray about tomorrow.
Mt 6:34 – Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own
2 Pet 3:8-9 – But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

NEXT STEP – to ask Jesus Christ into your life – a daily rededication
“a spiritual base”

2 Cor 13:5 – Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?

Believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for me and showed he was God by coming back to life – 1 Cor 15:2-4

Accept God’s forgiveness for my sins – Rom 3:22

Switch to God’s plan for my life – Rom 12:2

Express my desire for Christ to be the director of my life – Rom 10:9

KIRK FRANKLIN AT WILLOW JANUARY 1ST & 2ND

2010-12-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

http://www.willowcreek.org/home1.aspx

Kirk Franklin - September

2010-12-27T20:09:00.000-08:00

Friday Dec 10th PIZZA NIGHT

2010-12-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

ONE WEEK LATE....BUT HEY BETTER LATE THAN NEVER!!!! BRING YOUR APPETITES FRIDAY & BE READY FOR A GOOD LESSON.

FRIDAY DEC 10TH - SHARON PRESENTS OUR LESSON ON - TURN

2010-12-04T21:23:00.000-08:00

LESSON 5 TURN

Principle 3: Consciously choose to commit all my life and will to Christ’s care and control.
Step 3: We made a decision to turn our lives and our wills over to the care of God.

Rom 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual[a] act of worship.

We must first commit and surrender our lives to the true Higher Power, Jesus Christ, and then we are able to turn over our wills to Him. When you choose to live this principle, you consciously choose to commit all your life and will to Christ’s care and control.

Trust
Understand
Repent
New Life

Trust
We trust our lives to complete strangers every day. We trust that oncoming cars will stop at intersections. We trust the food at restaurants, etc.
In Principle 3, we make the one-time decision to turn your life over to the care of God. It’s your choice, not chance, that determines your destiny. And that decision only requires trust, putting your faith into action! What is faith? Taking God at His word.
Romans 10:9 – That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Our salvation depends upon God’s love for us, not our love for Him.

Understand
Relying solely upon our own understanding got most of us into recovery in the first place! After you make the decision to ask Jesus into your life, you need to begin to seek His will for your life in all your decisions. You need to get to know and understand Him and what He wants for your life. Example: Being a student of your husband/wife
Pr 3:5,6 – 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Our understanding is earthbound, but God sees forever. He directs us step by step, not day by day, or year by year.
1 Cor 13:12 – Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

Repent
Repentance is how you begin to enjoy the freedom of your loving relationship with God. True repentance affects our whole person and changes our entire view of life. Repentance is to take God’s point of view on our lives instead of our own. To truly repent you need to do 2 things: 1) turn away from your sins; 2) turn toward God.

Eze 18:30-31 -… Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. 31 Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit…
Rom 12:2 – 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will
2 Cor 7:10 – Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

Repentance is not self-loathing, it is God loving. We don’t come to Celebrate Recovery to be punished but to be loved by God through the support of our brothers and sisters.
When you turn to Him, you receive a New Life.

New Life
“Life is a hereditary disease” “Life is a sentence that we have to serve for being born” “Life is a predicament that precedes death”
When you accept Christ into your life, you will receive a new loving nature dwelling within you from Christ. God has declared you not guilty and you no longer have to live under the power of sin.
2 Cor 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
The new you says,
Mk 8:35 -For whoever wants to save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it
Lk 6:38 – Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you
Mt 5, 6, 7 Sermon on the Mount
Eph 1:13 – And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit
The rest of the principle, however, turning your will over to Him, requires daily recommitment! You can begin by going to your Bible regularly, opening it prayerfully, reading it expectantly, and living it joyfully.
Turning your life over to Christ
Is a once in a lifetime commitment!
Turning your will over to Christ
Requires a daily recommitment!

Posted in Celebrate Recovery, CR Updates, Eight Principles, Twelve Steps | Tags: Celebrate Recovery, Lesson 5, Step 3, Turn
« Rick Warren InterviewLesson 6 – Action »

We Have A New Facilitator

2010-12-04T21:15:00.000-08:00

KATHY REMEEUS-SHEFNER HAS AGREED TO COME ON BOARD AS A FACILITATOR FOR THE WOMAN'S GROUP. KATHY WILL BE ROTATING WITH SHARON & CAROLYN.

THANKS KATHY! WE REALLY NEEDED THE HELP.

Sanity Lesson 4

2010-11-19T22:14:00.000-08:00

Lesson 4 SANITY

Principle 2: Earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover.

Mt5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted

Step 2: We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

Phil 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

Step 1 – realize that our lives are out of control. The next step is to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

Moving from chaos to hope.

Insanity – doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result each time.

Sanity – wholeness of mind; making decisions based on the truth.

Jn 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Strength

Acceptance

New Life

Integrity

Trust

Your Higher Power

When we believe that Jesus Christ has the power to restore us to SANITY

Strength – When we receive Christ we receive strength to face the fears that in the past have caused us to fight, flee or freeze.

Ps 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble

Ps 73:26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Mt 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

When we depended upon our own strength we were disconnected from our true power source—God

Acceptance – realistic expectations of ourselves and others. “the courage to change the things we can and to accept the things we cannot change.” With acceptance comes responsibility – stop placing all the blame on others for our past actions and hurts.

Phil 4:12-13 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength

New Life – When a person becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside

2 Cor 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Eze 36:26 – I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

Integrity – We gain integrity as we begin to follow through on our promises.

Jn 8:32, 36 – Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Truth fears nothing—nothing but concealment. Truth may hurt but it’s lies that leave the scars.

Jn 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Trust – We begin to trust in our relationships with others and with God.

Pr 29:25 – Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe

1 Pet 5:7 – 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 Cor 10:13 – No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

In recovery you can find real friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, to walk beside you on your journey through the principles.

Your Higher Power – Jesus Christ loves you just the way you are

Lk 19:10 – For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”

Rom 5:8 – But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Rom 8:38-39 – For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[d] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord

Joan We Loved Your Testimony - Thank You For Sharing It!

2010-11-19T22:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you for being so generous,
thoughtful and so true.
And thank you most of all
for just being you.

THIS FRIDAY NOV 19TH AT 7 PM WE WILL HAVE A LIVE TESTIMONY

2010-11-14T21:45:00.000-08:00

BRUCE'S SISTER JOAN WILL GIVE HER TESTIMONY. PLEASE
FEEL FREE TO COME EVEN IF YOU DON'T ATTEND CR. YOU
CAN STAY FOR THE LARGE GROUP
WHICH IS 7-8PM AND LEAVE AFTER IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO STAY FOR OUR
GENDER SPECIFIC SMALL GROUPS. COFFEE & TREATS WILL BE SUPPLIED FOR
AFTER THE LARGE GROUP.

* NOW I MUST ADMIT THIS IS NOT AN EXACT PIC OF JOAN.
SHE IS BLONDE & WILL BE AT A PODIUM SPEAKING THREW A MIKE. BUT I AM SURE
SHE IS A MUCH BETTER SPEAKER THAN THE BLONDE ABOVE.

http://www.theboycecrew.blogspot.com/

ZEPHANIAH 3:17

Edgebrook Covenant Church Sat Nov 13th 7pm

2010-11-12T22:35:00.001-08:00

Coffeehouse, Live Music, Food, and a Great Cause!
Posted under What's Going On
No Comments

You are invited to attend a night of live music! Cafe Eutychus & Build with the Boyces presents an Open Mic Fundraiser on Saturday, November 13 from 7:00 to 10:00pm at Edgebrook Covenant Church. Music will be provided by the Randy Nelson Jazz Ensemble, Ben De Los Monteros, Mark Malone, Gino Garza, Brad Henry, Amy Oxendale, Desiree & Friends, Tommy Bakken, and more.

Help us raise funds to build a house for the Boyce family, who are raising two young children, Brooklyn and Jayden, with Sanfilippo Syndrome – a congenital degenerative disease which delays development and gradually reduces mental function. There is no cure at this time.
How can you help?

Besides attending, we can use donated baked goods. For more information email klbakken@comcast.net or call his cell 224.612.2086. You can also check out the family’s website and blog at: http://www.buildwiththeboyces.com/.

ADDRESS: Edgebrook Covenant Chruch 6355 N SPOKANE AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60646

EVERYTHING MUST GO!! Starts Thursday NOV 4, 5 & 6 (TIL NOON ON 6TH)

2010-10-31T20:18:00.000-07:00

Camp Oakarro
40635 N Mill Creek Rd
Old Mill Creek, IL 60083-9260

If you have any quesitons please call Cindy Marie at 847-651-7421.
You name it, it's for sale. EVERYTHING.

Sale begins Thursday November 4th and ends Saturday November 6th at noon.

LESSON 3 HOPE

2010-10-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

HOPE - Lesson 3 Celebrate Recovery - Post #6 - Hope

Anyone who comes to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek him." (Hebrews 11:6)

In the first principle, we admitted we were powerless. Now in the second principle, we come to believe God exists, that we are important to Him, and that we are able to receive God's power to help us recover. It's in the second step we find HOPE!

Principle 2: Earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover. "Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted" (Matthew 5:4)

Step 2: We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13)

How do we find hope? By faith in our our Higher Power, Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 11:1)

Now is the time to journal and discuss the following:

1.Before taking this step, where were you trying to find hope?
2.What do you believe about God? What are some of His characteristics?
3.How are your feelings for your heavenly Father and your earthly father alike? How do they differ?
4.How can your relationship with your Higher Power, Jesus Christ, help you step out of your denial and face reality?
5.In what areas of your life are you now ready to let God help you?
6.What things are you ready to change in your life? Where can you get the power to change them?

MEN'S BASKETBALL MONDAY NIGHTS AT 7PM

2010-10-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

Looking for something positive & physical to do on Monday nights?

North Point sponors Men's Basketball at 7pm. Come one come all, but bring your A game!

More more info call Tony at

THE HENRY BENEFIT

2010-10-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

TUESDAY OCTOBER 19TH
6PM UNTIL 9PM
PLEASE JOIN US IN SUPPORTING
AND RAISING $$$ FOR THE HENRY FAMILY
WHO ARE EXPERIENCING FINANCIAL ISSUES
DUE TO SEVERAL HEALTH PROBLEMS.

THE BENEFIT WILL TAKE PLACE AT
"THE BEE STREET PUB & EATERY"
LOCATED AT 3077 SHERIDAN RD ZION, IL 60099

IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT & WOULD STILL LIKE TO HELP, YOU MAY SEND YOUR CHECKS TO NORTH POINT CHURCH AT 900 N LEWIS AVE., WINTHROP HARBOR IL 60096. PLEASE WRITE HENRY BENEVOLENCE FUND IN THE MEMO SECTION OF YOUR CHECK. THANK YOU & GOD BLESS

Jonah

2010-09-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

It is the heathen sailors who feared and are praying while the man of God is complacently sleeping below. The sailors were praying to the wrong gods, but they were convicted by the events at sea. Jonah’s lack of reaction is significant. Sin hardens the heart and makes us insensitive. Here we see that Jonah is insensitive to what God is doing. And we see the first of many contrasts between the heathens and Jonah. Jonah is insensitive, but the heathens are aware that something out of the ordinary is going on and they are praying to their gods.

Jonah’s statement in 1:9 is the exact opposite of what his actions show. He does not fear God. If he did, he would have obeyed the first time, and at the least, been praying because of the storm.

Sailor's Prayer (1:10-14)
What stand’s out in this section?

They would eventually learn that Jonah’s God was the true God.

1:10 shows that the men were amazed that Jonah would do something to displease his God. They spent their life in fear of their gods, trying to please and pacify them. It is ironic and sad that those who worship the true God - the only God worth fearing - and experience His grace, take advantage of His grace and do not live their life in an effort to please Him.

1:13 shows that the heathen sailors had more compassion than Jonah. They did not want to throw him overboard and tried desperately to get to land without doing that. They begged Jonah’s God’s pardon for what they had to do. This is also a contrast with the man of God who had no compassion on the people of Ninevah.

God's Answer (1:15-16)
God responded by calming the sea .

The sailors recognize that the true God is Jonah’s God, so they pray to Yahweh. And after the sea calms, we see that they feared Yahweh and offered sacrifices to Him and made vows. They were probably vows that they would follow and obey Him. This is in contrast to Jonah who disobeyed God.

TUNE IN TO SHARON'S BROADCAST

2010-09-08T22:41:00.000-07:00

sharon's radio internet
www.gmap1.com
2-3 pm cst
starting tomorrow thursday
sept 9th
TUNE IN

2010-09-06T21:14:00.001-07:00

TONIGHT WE ARE GOING TO FOCUS ON FOUR ACTIONS: 2 TINGS WE HAVE TO STOP DOING & 2 THINGS WE NEED TO START DOING. WE NEED TO TAKE THESE FOUR ACTIONS TO COMPLETE PRINCIPLE ONE. 1. STOP DENYING THE PAIN

2. STOP PLAYING GOD 3. START ADMITTING OUR POWERLESSNESS 4. START ADMITTING THAT OUR LIVES HAVE BECOME UNMANAGEABLE.

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO SAY "MY LIFE IS NOT MANAGEABLE"....LOOK AT IT THIS WAY...IS GOD/JESUS CHRIST IS NOT MANAGING ALL ASPECTS OF YOUR LIFE, YOUR LIFE, IS UNMANAGEABLE.

SO JOIN US THIS FRIDAY NIGHT AT 7PM (SOUTHWEST ENTRANCE) FOR AN ENLIGHTING EXPERIENCE. YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY YOU DID.

FRIDAY AUGUST 29TH - LESSON ONE (ALL OVER AGAIN)

2010-08-21T20:48:00.000-07:00

The Celebrate Recovery lesson says that Denial does the following in our lives:

· It Disables our feelings

· Energy is lost

· It Negates growth

· It Isolates us from God

· It Alienates us from our relationships

· It Lengthens the pain

Basically we are stuck in our tracks when we live in denial, and when we don’t try to get unstuck, we gradually start to sink, or to slide backwards, and the goals we have set in our lives become farther and farther away, and we start to lose things that we have already gained, or we damage them.

The first step and the first principle can leave us sometimes feeling like we have failed, that we have been defeated, but that is not the purpose of the first step. It is really just to help us recognize that “we are not God”. Nothing too earth-shattering about that, except to us who think we are, when we think that we call all the shots. When we think we are God, that is when our lives gradually become unmanageable. We’re pushing aside our Creator, who promises to love us, to protect us, to guide us. We try to control everything in our lives, and when we find that we can’t, when our lives begin to unravel, that is when we start moving towards the end of our rope.

If that was where we stayed, we would be pretty miserable. But a phrase that I remember well from AA is, “That one is God. May you find Him now.” Step One is preparing us for Steps Two and Three. And there are some verses I’d like to close with to give us the hope that we can draw from recognizing our denial, and from admitting that we are powerless to control everything.

Hebrew 12:1: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. “

THE SEVEN REASONS WE GET STUCK

2010-08-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

THIS IS OUR LAST LESSON (LESSON 25) FOR THIS CYCLE. WE WILL START ALL OVER AGAIN WITH LESSON 1 - DENIAL. LESSON 1 -DENIAL WILL BEGIN ON AUGUST 27TH AT 7PM.

1. YOU HAVE NOT COMPLETELY WORKED THE PREVIOUS PRINCIPLE

2. YOU HAVE NOT COMPLETELY SURRENDERED YOUR LIFE & YOUR WILL TO THE LORD

3. YOU HAVE NOT ACCEPTED JESUS' WORK ON THE CROSS FOR YOUR FORGIVENESS

4. YOU HAVE NOT FORGIVEN OTHERS WHO HAVE HARMED YOU (EXCLUDING ABUSE)

5. YOU ARE AFRAID OF THE RISK IN MAKING THE NECESSARY CHANGES

6. YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO "OWN" YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

7. YOU HAVE NOT DEVELOPED AN EFFECTIVE SUPPORT TEAM

SATURDAY JULY 31ST 9 AM

2010-07-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

COME ONE, COME ALL....TO SHARON'S HOUSE

THIS SATURDAY STARTING AT 9AM & GOING

THROUGH THE LATE AFTERNOON

STAY AN HOUR...STAY SIX HOURS....WHATEVER

YOU CAN DO WILL BE A HUGE HELP

WE WILL BE CLEANING....PAINTING & ORGANIZING

1352 Sunrise, Gurnee IL
(she is in the sub-division just off grand, across from six flags)
call her for directions
847-970-1696

FRIDAY JULY 30TH - SHARON WILL BE GIVING THE LESSON

2010-07-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

Introduction
Modern technology is something else! Take an old, beatup
Diet Coke can—dirty,
dented, holes in it. A few years ago, it would have been thrown in the garbage and deemed
useless, of no value. Today it can be recycled, melted down, purified, and made into a new can—
shiny and clean—that can be used again.
We’re going to talk about recycling tonight—recycling your pain by allowing God’s fire
and light to shine on it, to melt down your old hurts, habits, and hangups
so they can be used
again in a positive way. They can be recycled to show others how you worked the principles and
steps with Jesus’ healing into the solution and how you have come through the darkness of your
pain into Christ’s glorious freedom and light.
Society tells us that pain is useless. In fact, people are coming to believe that people in
pain are useless! At Celebrate Recovery, we know that pain has value, as do the people who
experience it. So while the world says no, tonight we say yes!

This Wednesday July 14th We Are Meeting At NPC At 5pm

2010-07-09T22:28:00.000-07:00

TO GO SEE ROB BELL AT WILLOW
WE WILL GO IN AS FEW CARS AS POSSIBLE
JUST BE AT NPC AT 5PM....WE WILL EAT AT WILLOW
DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR ROB SPEAK!

July 14
Rob Bell
Turn the Other Cheek
Everyone has heard the phrase "turn the other cheek," usually as a reminder to passively accept whatever is being done to you. But a brief look at the first century context of Jesus' words reveals turning the other cheek is an unexpected, courageous, creative act with stunning implications—both for the one who is doing the hitting and for the one who has just been hit. Rob Bell, pastor at Mars Hill Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, teaches from Matthew 5: 38-42.

AND IF YOU CAN'T MEET US AT FIVE AT NPC, JUST PROGRAM YOUR GPS FOR
67 Algonquin Road, Barrington, IL - (847) 765-5000 & MEET US THERE

PICNIC AT CINDY'S SUNDAY JULY 25TH

2010-07-03T21:45:00.000-07:00

OK EVERYONE...IT'S TIME FOR OUR ANNUAL CR PICNIC AT CINDY'S. COME DIRECTLY AFTER 2ND SERVICE. HER HOME IS LOCATED ON CAMP OAKAROO. ADDRESS LISTED BELOW:

Camp Oakarro
40635 N Mill Creek Rd
Old Mill Creek, IL 60083-9260

BRING ANY BALLS, FRISBEES, OUTSIDE GAMES & FISHING POLES
BRING A DISH TO PASS
BRING A LITTER OF SODA
BRING YOUR FAMILY

WHETHER YOU USE TO COME TO CR, YOU HAVE NOT BEEN IN AWHILE, YOU WANT TO COME TO CR, YOU COME ON FRIDAY NIGHTS OR YOU COME ON SUNDAY MORNINGS....EVERYONE, INCLUDING THEIR FAMILY IS INVITED.

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

2010-06-29T05:29:00.000-07:00

PLEASE BE IN PRAYER FOR JAYDEN, HE HAS BEEN VERY SICK AND NOW IS IN CHILDREN'S MEMORIAL IN CHICAGO. PRAY FOR STRENGTH FOR HIS PARENTS & FAMILY.

G R A T I T U D E

2010-06-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” — Albert Schweitzer

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” — William Arthur Ward

“Can you see the holiness in those things you take for granted–a paved road or a washing machine? If you concentrate on finding what is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.” — Rabbi Harold Kushner

2010-06-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

WELLSPRING COUNSELING CENTER INC.
Brian Westrate
310 Old Green Bay Rd., Kenosha WI 53144
262-883-9400
http://www.wellspringcc.com/

VINEKEEPERS
James Veltman
33 N County #603 Waukegan, IL60085
224-612-2031

COMPASS CHRISTIAN COUNSELING
Beverly Mayhak, Kathi Moreland,
Kay Swatkowski & Kelsie Newbrough
900 N LEWIS AVE
WINTHROP HARBOR, IL 60096
847-746-5524
http://www.compasschristiancounseling.com/
Posted by North Point CR at 7:27 PM

IT'S PIZZA NIGHT AGAIN - BRING YOUR APPETITE

2010-06-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

WELL IT IS NOT THE FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH...BUT WE WERE THROWN OFF THIS MONTH....SO TONIGHTS THE NIGHT FOR PIZZA.

ALSO...WE MIGHT HAVE DESSERT TOO????? YOU NEVER KNOW?

MICHAEL DURSO- PASTOR, FORMER ADDICT

2010-06-07T21:09:00.000-07:00

PASTOR MICHAEL DURSO WILL BE AT WILLOW CREEK CHURCH THIS COMING WEEKEND. SATURDAY NIGHT 5:30PM & SUNDAY 9AM & 11:15AM.

PASTOR DURSO IS A DYNAMIC SPEAKER WHO HAS FIRST HAND KNOWLEDGE OF ADDICTION & RECOVERY. HIS PASSION FOR PRAYER IS POWERFUL. PASTOR DURSO COMES TO IL FROM NYC WITH WONDERFUL WORDS OS WISDOM. THIS IS A MAN WHO TRULY LOVES THE LORD.

DIRECTIONS: TAKE 94 SOUTH TO WILLOW CREEK EXIT (WEST) CONTINUE WEST TO 53 SOUTH & THEN EXIT ALGONQUIN WEST TO ADDRESS (ABOUT 15 MIN APRX FROM EXIT) CHURCH IS ON THE LEFT.

R U M M A G E S A L E

2010-06-03T20:30:00.000-07:00

Rummage Sale
Date: Friday, June 4 - Sunday, June 6, 2010
Time: 8am - 8pm
Location: 12582 W. Eastwood Rd, Beach Park, IL 60087
(aprx Green Bay & Yorkhouse...from Green Bay Rd., go east on Yorkhouse Rd & then
north on Northern Ave. to Eastwood & then west to address)

Details: All proceeds will go towards researching a treatment/cure for Sanfilippo Syndrome (MPS).

Sanfilippo syndrome is an inherited disease of metabolism that makes the body unable to properly break down long chains of sugar molecules called glycosaminoglycans (formerly called mucopolysaccharides).
The syndrome belongs to a group of diseases called mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS). Specifically, it is known as MPS III.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001210.htm

PLEASE CHECK-OUT THESE BLOGS:

WWW.THEBOYCECREW.BLOGSPOT.COM

WWW.BUILDINGWITHTHEBOYCES.COM

CR'S 2ND ANNIVERSARY - CELEBRATE WITH US ON JUNE 20TH

2010-05-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

PLEASE PLAN ON ATTENDING SUNDAY JUNE 20TH . WE WILL BE CELEBRATING OUR 2ND ANNIVERSARY (WELL IT WAS ACTUALLY MARCH 7TH) BUT YOU KNOW....THINGS COME UP. BUT CELEBRATE WE MUST! WE WILL BE HAVING SPECIAL MUSIC PRESENTED BY RACHEL RICCHIO, ACCOMPANIED BY HER FATHER. AS WELL AS A SHORT VIDEO. WE WILL BE CELEBRATING DURING BOTH SERVICES. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE.

YOUR MORAL COMPASS - SECULAR OR CHRISTIAN?

2010-05-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

THESE FOUR UNIVERSAL PRINCIPALS ARE HONORED IN SOME FORM BY PEOPLE OF ALL RACES AND RELIGIONS,
REGARDLESS OF GENDER.

SO WHERE DOES THAT LEAVE US? ARE SOME OF US JUST GOOD PEOPLE? WE HAVE OUR MORAL COMPASSES IN LINE? WE DON'T DRINK, DO DRUGS SWEAR. WE ARE KIND,
HELP THE POOR AND ARE COMPASSIONATE AND FORGIVING.

GREAT QUALITIES!!!! BUT THAT DOES NOT MAKE US A CHRISTIAN. SO IS YOUR MORAL COMPASS POINTED NORTH BECAUSE THAT IS THE WAY OF THE LORD?

LESSON 20 - DAILY INVENTORY

2010-05-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

JOIN US TONIGHT AS SHARON GIVES THE LESSON ON

DOING YOUR DAILY PERSONAL INVENTORY.

STEP 10 TEACHES YOU HOW TO DO A DAILY INVENTORY.

THE KEY VERSE IN THIS LESSON IS

MARK 14:38. "WATCH AND PRAY THAT YOU DO NOT FALL INTO TEMPTATION. THE SPIRIT IS INDEED WILLING, BUT THE BODY IS WEAK."

Resurrection Sunday Dance, Budapest, Hungary

2010-05-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Recovery Basic Info

2010-05-10T20:49:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATE RECOVERY OR CR AS WE CALL IT, IS A 12 STEP CHRISTIAN RECOVERY PROGRAM. WE MEET EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT AT 7PM AT NORTH POINT CHURCH AT 900 N LEWIS AVE., WINTHROP HARBOR IL 60099. PLEASE ENTER THROUGH THE SOUTH-WEST ENTRANCE.

OUR TEAM LEADERS INCLUDE:

T - TRAINING LEADER, CAROLYN BAKKEN & JENNIFER CASTILLO
E - ENCOURAGEMENT LEADER, SHARON VERZAL & TERRY HUWE
A - ASSIMILATION LEADER , CAROLYN BAKKEN & SHARON VERZAL
M - MINISTRY LEADER, BRUCE BAKKEN
*Step Study Facilitator, Debbie Harris
*Phone Coordinator - Steve K 224-441-1051
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ANY LEADER AT:
CELEBRATE@NORTHPOINTCHURCH.ORG
OR CALL US AT (847)746-5522

DAILY INVENTORY LESSON 20

2010-05-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

WE BEGIN TO APPLY WHAT WE DISCOVERED IN THE FIRST SIX PRINCIPLES & NINE STEPS; WE HUMBLY LIVE IN REALITY NO DENIAL; WE HAVE DONE OUR BEST TO MAKE AMENDS FOR OUR PAST; WE DESIRE TO GROW DAILY IN OUR NEW RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST & OTHERS. GOD HAS PROVIDED US WITH A DAILY CHECKLIST FOR OUR NEW LIFESTYLE. IT'S CALLED THE "GREAT COMMANDMENT"
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart...soul & mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it; 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22: 37-40

DEBBIE HARRIS & SHARON VERZAL HEAD UP OUR SUNDAY AM STEP STUDY

2010-05-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

PLEASE PRAYERFULLY CONSIDER JOING OUR

WOMEN'S STEP STUDY.

DEBBIE HARRIS & SHARON VERZAL LEAD A STEP STUDY

CLASS DURING 2ND SERVICE.

WHAT IS RECOVERY? In physical health recovery referes to the process of moving from illness to wellness. Our hurts, habits and hang-ups are like an illness and using the tools of Celebrate Recovery we began to move to wholeness. Some might say from bondage to freedom in Christ. Others mights say from self-reliance to faith in Christ.

Many people consider CR a place to only work on issues of drugs an alcohol. But CR encompasses SO MUCH MORE. We all have conflict with family members during the years, or we stay up nights waiting for our teens to come home safe. Many of us have habits like smoking, swearing or spending money we really don't have. Then there are hang ups, like needing to wear name brands or having to look your best at the expense of spending money you dont have.

CR give you the tools, support & accountability to do the right things in life.

It allows us to form a truly personal realtionship with Christ, and turn to him first for answers to our problems. Not our best friends or even our spouses, they are #3 & #2 in that order of support.

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT CR????

2010-04-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

IF YOU'RE A GUY AND YOU WANT MORE INFO ABOUT CR, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL STEVE AT 224-441-1051.

STEVE WOULD BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY OF YOUR QUESTIONS.

WOMAN'S CR STEP STUDY - 11:30 AM ROOM 108

2010-04-23T21:43:00.000-07:00

"Stepping Out Of Denial"

Recovery is not an overnight phenomenon, but more like a journey. To start, we need to step out of denial and into God's grace. This guide goes through the first three principles.
We need to first look at the toll that denial has had on our ability to face reality, and acknowledge that we are powerless against this struggle. We alone do not have the power to conquer this problem. In Principle 2, we find our hope in Jesus Christ, and how through Him we can recover and restore our sanity. Finally, in Principle 3, we take the action to turn our lives and our wills over to His care and direction.
Each lesson goes through the different aspects of the subject. For example, in the first lesson on denial, we have to admit that there is a problem, and realize all the negative things that have come about because of the problem. Then, the most important part of the lesson is where you get a chance to respond. This is a set of questions that really helps you make it personal, and shows you how to apply it to your own life. When answering these questions truthfully and from the heart, you can benefit the most from the lesson, and you are fully prepared to move on to the next lesson and closer towards recovery.
The participant guides are essential to the person in recovery to take part in because it makes everything personal."

SUCH IS THE CHOICE FOR US

2010-04-11T22:12:00.000-07:00

Two brothers were once convicted of stealing sheep & were branded on the forehead with the letters ST, which stood for "sheep thief". Unable to bear the shame, one brother fled to a foreign land, where he still had to explain his brand. He wandered from land to land, hoping he could escape his guilt, but finally died in bitterness, buried in a forgotten grave. The other brother repented of his crime. He did not go away but bore his shame, acknowledged his guilt, and resolved "to make amends". He stayed with his people, determined to win back their respect. As the years passed, he gained a reputation for great honesty and kindness. One day a stranger came to town and saw the man with ST branded on his forehead. He asked someone what the letters meant. A villager said, "it happened long ago and I have forgotten the details, but I think the letters are an abbreviation for "saint".

BOYCE BENEFIT - HOOPS THIS TIME!

2010-04-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

Hoops & DreamsDate: Saturday, July 3, 2010Time: 10:00am - 2:00pmLocation: Beach Bible Church3520 21st St.Zion, ILDetails: Coming Soon

COME ONE, COME ALL...IT'S TIME TO SHOW YOUR "SKILL".

SEE YOU THERE!!

Boyce Benefit - WHAT A SUCCESS!!

2010-04-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

Bee Street Restaurant did a great job setting up for the benefit. It was an A#1

benefit...no doubt. Thank you so everyone who showed up to support the family, donated gifts & puchased gifts. let's vote. Left hope the next benefit does half-as well as this one:

BENEFIT FOR THE BOYCES

2010-04-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

THIS COMING SATURDAY

APRIL 10TH FROM 4-9PM

BEE STREET RESTAURANT IS HOSTING A BENEFIT TO RAISE MONEY

FOR THE BOYCES

(http://www.buildwiththeboyces.com/)

IF YOU'RE ABLE TO ATTEND YOUR SUPPORT WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. IF YOU'RE UNABLE TO ATTEND PLEASE PRAY FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE BENEFIT.

THANK YOU!!

For more details please see Bruce or Carolyn

Bee Street Restaurant
(847) 731-0908
3077 Sheridan Rd, Zion, IL 60099-3243

PROGRAMS

2010-03-29T19:24:00.000-07:00

WHAT DO CELEBRATE RECOVERY & WEIGHT WATCHERS HAVE IN COMMON? ....THEY ARE BOTH GREAT PROGRAMS, THAT WORK....BUT YOU HAVE TO WORK THE PROGRAM IN ORDER TO SUCCEED....

ARE YOU WORKING YOUR STEPS?

Are You A Christian?

2010-03-28T20:28:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Father,
I come to you in prayer, asking for the forgiveness of my sins. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is your Son, and that he died on the cross at Calvary, that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead. I ask you right now to come into my life and be my Lord & Savior. I repent of my sins and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is Truth, I confess with my mouth that I am born again and cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. In Jesus Name, Amen

FORGIVEN - Lesson by Sharon

2010-03-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

AND YOU KNOW, WHEN YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED GRACE AND YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN, YOU ARE ALOT MORE FORGIVING OF OTHER PEOPLE. YOU'RE ALOT MORE GRACIOUS TO OTHER PEOPLE...Rick Warren

NEW WOMAN'S STEP STUDY BEGINS SUNDAY MARCH 7TH DURING 1ST SERVICE

2010-03-02T22:01:00.000-08:00

OUR NEW LADIES STEP STUDY WILL BE HELD DURING 1ST SERVICE AT 9AM IN ROOM 108.

Debbie & Sharon will be leading this group. Come check us out and see how a deeper, truly personal relationship with Jesus Christ can make a difference in your life.

LESSON: VICTORY

2010-02-21T17:36:00.000-08:00

"VICTORY IS SWEETEST WHEN YOU HAVE KNOWN DEFEAT"...MALCOlM S. FORBES

OUR LESSON THIS COMING WEEK IS: VICTORY.

COME JOIN US, & GO FOR THE GOLD IN LIFE!

PIZZA NIGHT THIS FRIDAY FEB 12TH 7PM

2010-02-11T21:51:00.000-08:00

Pizza Definition of Pizza at Dictionary.com:: "piz⋅za /ˈpitsə/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [peet-suh] Show IPA
–noun a flat, open-faced baked pie of Italian origin, consisting of a thin layer of bread dough topped with spiced tomato sauce and cheese, often garnished with anchovies, sausage slices, mushrooms, etc.

ANYONE MAKING $50,000 OR MORE A YEAR MAKES MORE THAN 99% OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION

2010-02-11T21:20:00.000-08:00

The bread which you keep belongs to the hungry; that coat which you preserve in your wardrobe, to the naked; those shoes which are rotting in your possession, to the shoeless; that gold which you have hidden in the ground, to the needy. Wherefore, as often as you are able to help others, and refuse, so often you did them wrong. -Augustine

JUST ONE

If you cannot feed a hundred people, then feed just one. - Mother Theresa

http://www.kiva.org/

Your Hands with Lyrics JJ Heller

2010-01-22T21:35:00.001-08:00

WELCOME SHARON! SHE WILL BE GIVING HER FIRST LESSON FOR OUR GROUP

2010-01-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL & EXCITED TO HAVE SHARON AGREE TO PRESENT OUR LESSON THIS WEEK ON ADMIT. SHARON IS A WIFE AND STAY AT HOME MOTHER OF THREE.

PLEASE JOIN US THIS FRIDAY JANUARY 22ND AT

7PM...REMEMBER WE ARE AT THE SOUTHWEST ENTRANCE OF THE

CHURCH.

The Passing Of A Truly Great Christian Man

2010-01-09T00:07:00.000-08:00

Please join with us in expressing our condolences to the Bud Bakken Family. Gerald "Bud"Bakken passed away from our Beautiful earth to a much better place in the Kingdom of Heavean. Bud raised Bruce & instructed him in many ways....Bruce in turn was touched by those struggling with recovery. May God Bless the entire Bakken clan.

2010-01-07T22:07:00.001-08:00

LADY'S STEP STUDY STARTING AGAIN

2010-01-07T21:56:00.000-08:00

A NEW LADY'S STEP STUDY WILL BE BEGINNING IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

DEBBI HARRIS WILL BE LEADING IT. IT WILL TAKE PLACE IN ROOM

108 DURING 1ST SERVICE.

PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS & GIVE IT A SHOT...I DON'T THINK YOU WILL BE SORRY. FOR MORE INFO, PLEASE EMAIL DEBBI AT: Ladylooney16@Yahoo.com

JUST FOR TODAY

2010-01-02T08:02:00.000-08:00

JUST FOR TODAY: I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once. I know that I CAN do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away & fill them with sunshine.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct & accept those I cannot.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought & concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind & courteous to those who cross my path & I'll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly & not interrupt when someone else is talking.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.

By: Dear Abby & Pauline Phillips

p.s. thank you to kathy who brought this article to our attention

2010 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

2009-12-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

CR CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR
NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS -

SMOKING

WEIGHT LOSS

EXERCISING

ANGER ISSUES

DRINKING LESS

SPENDING LESS

(& SO ON...YOU FILL IN THE BLANK)

FRIDAY JANUARY 1ST 2010 7PM WE WILL BE HERE

2009-12-26T15:09:00.000-08:00

COME JOIN US FOR THE FIRST CR MEETING OF 2010...

WE WILL HAVE SNACKS TO CELEBRATE....

WHY NOT LET CR HELP YOU OBTAIN YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION....

THE BUILDING MAY LOOK DARK....BUT ENTER

BY THE SOUTH-WEST DOOR....WE WILL BE HERE!!

Give Me Your Eyes - Brandon Heath

2009-12-19T12:10:00.001-08:00

ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 13TH AT 12:30

2009-12-09T21:15:00.000-08:00

CR WILL BE HOSTING A LADIES CHRISTMAS PARTY

12:30 AT CAROLYN'S HOUSE...LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED

BRING YOURSELVES AND A WHITE ELEPHANT GIFT

FOR DIRECTIONS PLEASE SEE CAROLYN OR JENNIFER

SPIRITUAL INVENTORY

2009-12-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

Everyone has three different characters:

1. The one we exhibit

2. The one we think we have.

3. The one we truly have.

Ps 139:23-24 – Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Isa 1:18 – Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."