Evergreen Church

06/23/2026

Goodness: Becoming More Like Christ

What does it really mean to be a "good" person?

The Bible teaches that goodness is not simply being nice or talented. True goodness reflects the character of God and is lived out through obedience, love, and faith.

📖 John 14:15
"If you love me, obey my commandments."

📖 Matthew 7:12
"Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you."

📖 Mark 12:30-31
"You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength... Love your neighbor as yourself."

God is the source of all goodness.

📖 Psalm 100:5
"For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation."

📖 Nahum 1:7
"The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him."

The good news is that we do not have to become good on our own. Through Christ, God changes us from the inside out.

📖 2 Corinthians 5:17
"Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"

📖 Galatians 5:22-23
"The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control."

Even when we struggle, God remains faithful.

📖 1 John 3:20
"Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and he knows everything."

Today, ask yourself: How can I reflect God's goodness in my words, actions, and relationships?

🙏 Lord, help us to become more like You each day, showing Your love and goodness to everyone we meet.

06/21/2026

06/18/2026

The Power of a Compliment

A sincere compliment can do more than brighten someone's day. It can encourage a weary heart, strengthen relationships, and remind others that they are seen and valued.

Scripture shows us that godly encouragement has always been part of the Christian life. Paul regularly thanked believers for their faith, love, service, and perseverance:

"Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God." (Philippians 1:3)

"Dear brothers and sisters, we can't help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing." (2 Thessalonians 1:3)

The Bible also teaches us the difference between a compliment and flattery. Flattery seeks personal gain, but a genuine compliment is given to build someone up. It comes from a heart of love and appreciation.

"In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery." (Proverbs 28:23)

When someone encourages you, receive it with humility and gratitude, recognizing God's work in your life:

"Every good thing I have comes from you." (Psalm 16:2)

And when you see faithfulness, kindness, hard work, or spiritual growth in others, don't keep it to yourself. Share an encouraging word.

"Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up." (Proverbs 12:25)

"You have greatly encouraged me and made me happy despite all our troubles." (2 Corinthians 7:4)

This week, look for opportunities to encourage someone. A sincere compliment may be exactly what they need to hear today.

06/16/2026

Successful Teams: Built on Purpose, Unity, and Service

What makes a team successful? God's Word gives us a powerful blueprint for working together effectively in ministry, at work, and in our daily lives.

When Nehemiah challenged the people to rebuild Jerusalem's wall, they responded with one voice: "Yes, let's rebuild the wall!" (Nehemiah 2:18, NLT). Their success began with a shared vision and a willingness to work together.

📖 Amos 3:3 (NLT)
"Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?"
Successful teams unite around a common purpose.

📖 Philippians 2:2 (NLT)
"Agree wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose."
Unity strengthens cooperation and helps teams accomplish more than individuals ever could.

📖 Romans 12:4-5 (NLT)
"Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body."
Every person has a unique role to play. Healthy teams value the gifts, talents, and contributions of every member.

📖 1 Corinthians 12:27 (NLT)
"All of you together are Christ's body, and each of you is a part of it."
No role is insignificant. Every contribution matters.

📖 Exodus 17:12 (NLT)
"Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands."
Great teams support one another when challenges arise. Sometimes success comes simply from helping someone carry a burden they cannot carry alone.

📖 Romans 15:30-32 (NLT)
"Join in my struggle by praying to God for me."
Encouragement, prayer, hospitality, and practical support are all vital parts of teamwork in the Kingdom of God.

As followers of Christ, we are called to work together with humility, unity, and love. When each person faithfully uses their God given gifts and supports others in theirs, amazing things can happen for God's glory.

What qualities do you believe are most important in a successful team?

06/14/2026

Worship Service 6-14-26 … Bulletin with sermon notes insert is available at www.evergreenmc.org/bulletins

06/07/2026

Worship Service 6-7-26 … Bulletin with sermon notes insert is available at www.evergreenmc.org/bulletins

06/03/2026

Feeling overwhelmed? Wondering how much more you can handle?

Life's challenges can seem bigger than our strength, but God never asks us to carry our burdens alone. In the middle of your struggles, look for Him. He is present in every trial, every uncertainty, and every difficult season.

The Bible reminds us:

"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you."
— 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

When life feels heavy, don't focus only on the problem. Look for God's presence, His guidance, and His peace. He is working even when you cannot see it.

Today, take a moment to pray and place your concerns in His hands. You may be surprised by the strength and hope He provides.