Welcome to the Living Water Fellowship devoBlog! Here you will find audio messages, inspirational Scriptures, quotes, and other thoughts to encourage you in your walk with Christ. And, if you’ve got a minute or two, you can find out more about our fellowship of believers here.
Welcome to LWF! We’re Glad You’re Here!
Randall Gearhart, Senior Pastor
“Changing Seasons” by Randall Gearhart
Have you ever had “one of those days”?
I know. Silly question. We all have had one or more of those days–when nothing seems to go “right” and everything goes “wrong.” Life is an adventure, and oftentimes, a challenging adventure, to be sure!
The entire world is experiencing such a time right now. The Coronavirus has crossed borders, swept seas, and spread misery and death throughout the world. All of us have been affected in one way or another. It would be easy to grow “faint of heart” and just give up.
I believe that one of Satan’s chief weapons in his relentless war against the saints of God is “discouragement.” Unchecked, discouragement leads to despair and hopelessness–and ultimately, defeat.
If battling discouragement wasn’t enough, we often find ourselves fighting by ourselves–alone in this conflict. In times like these we must be proactive. To experience victory, we must learn how to “encourage ourselves in the Lord.”
In the face of this present danger, some of you may be experiencing feelings of fear and hopelessness. It’s time to wake up, rise up, and speak up! God’s promises to you are your sure hope of deliverance from discouragement.
I pray that God will strengthen and establish you as you listen, now.
“Dealing With Discouragement” by Randall Gearhart
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.”
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you.
Psalm 91:1-7
The times, they are a’changin’!
What a difference a day makes! One day, life goes on pretty much as it has for as long as we can remember. The next day–because of something called the “coronavirus,”–a world pandemic has been declared and we are cast into a sea of uncertainty.
Uncertainty often breeds fear, and fear can literally be a killer. Rather than giving ourselves over to fear, we need to resist fear and walk in faith–faith in God’s nature, character, faithfulness, and love–faith in the integrity of His Word.
“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”
~Luke 10:19
I delivered the following message, “No Fear Here!” at Living Water Fellowship, Sunday, March 15, 2020. I pray that your fears will be assuaged and your faith will be emboldened as you listen. Fear Not!
“No Fear Here!” by Randall Gearhart
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:8 (NLT)
I received Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord in 1973 at Hope United Methodist Church in Flint, Michigan. I was filled with the Holy Spirit a few weeks later at Calvary United Methodist Church, also in Flint. Since that time, I have learned much about the Holy Spirit through God’s Word and personal experience.
I believe that one of the most misunderstood doctrines of the Church is that of the the Person and Work of the Holy Spirit. In the light of this confusion, I offer you this series of messages.
There is absolutely no way that God’s people can be and do all that He has called us to be and do without the power of the Holy Spirit. We need to be born of the Spirit, filled with the Spirit, walk in the Spirit, and be led by the Spirit to fulfill the good and perfect will of God.
The world is waiting to see Jesus, and I believe that they are waiting for God’s people to begin seriously seeking God’s Presence and Power, to the end that we might show the world His greatness and glory. I will be adding new messages to this series over the next few weeks. I pray that the Holy Spirit will speak to your heart as you listen. Power to God’s People!
Lesson 1
“You Need Power”
by Randall Gearhart
Lesson 2
“The Pattern and the Promise” (Part One)
by Randall Gearhart
Lesson 3
“The Pattern and the Promise” (Part Two)
by Randall Gearhart
Lesson 4
“The Pattern and the Promise” (Part Three)
by Randall Gearhart
*Note: Due to the length of this audio message,
it has been necessary–because of file size limitations—
to divide it into two parts.
Lesson 5
INTRODUCTION
“Have You Received Since You Believed?”
by Randall Gearhart
Lesson 5
CONCLUSION
“Have You Received Since You Believed?”
by Randall Gearhart
Lesson 6
“The Big Three”
by Randall Gearhart
“Son, what you’re looking for is not in people, places, or things–it’s in My Presence.”
The beauty of the New Covenant is that God has invited all believers into His glorious and holy presence. In God’s presence we find peace, rest, joy, healing, wisdom–well, you get the picture–everything and anything we need is found in that place.
It is through the blood of Jesus Christ that we have access into the Holy of Holies to fellowship with God, our Father. And, because of Jesus, we can come boldly to seek and receive God’s power and provision.
It is my prayer that you will realize that God is calling you to draw near to Him, and, that you come to realize the blessing of living each moment of every day practicing the presence of God.
“In His Presence” by Randall Gearhart
“So do not start worrying: ‘Where will my food come from? or my drink? or my clothes?’ (These are the things the pagans are always concerned about.) Your Father in heaven knows that you need all these things. Instead, be concerned above everything else with the Kingdom of God and with what he requires of you, and he will provide you with all these other things. So do not worry about tomorrow; it will have enough worries of its own. There is no need to add to the troubles each day brings.”
Jesus, Matthew 6:31-34 (GNT)
Looking back on my nearly 7 decades on this planet, there are some things that I wish I would have learned a long time ago. One of those things is the practice of living life “one day at a time.”
It’s easy to worry about things in the future–many of which will most likely never happen. Instead of worrying, we need to learn how to cast all of our care, worry, and anxiety on the Lord.
A wise man once said to me, “You’re never too old to learn.”
So, even though you may not have yet learned this valuable secret to successful living, if you choose to, you can start… TODAY!
“Today Only” by Randall Gearhart
At the conclusion of this year’s Living Water Fellowship Christmas Service, I sang a song that has a familiar melody–“Mack the Knife”–only with words that I had re-written a number of years ago.
Now, this particular recording is from the Life of Faith Fellowship Classic NightFlight Car Show. But, I think you’ll get the idea.
I hope you enjoy it!
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
~John 3:16-17
If there’s anything that God gave to the world through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, it’s HOPE. And, in a world that has largely given up or lost hope, we who have believed in Jesus as the Savior of the world have a sure hope!
History records the life of this man named Jesus. Our calendar pays homage to Him recognizing B.C. –the years before Christ, and A.D.–The Year of Our Lord.” Jesus was not merely another teacher or religious figure. His claim was that He was the Son of God and the sacrifice for our sin.
There will be those who believe His claims and receive Him by faith. Others, blinded to the Truth by the god of this world, will reject His claims and, tragically, forfeit eternal life.
My prayer for you this holiday season is that you would stop and consider–or maybe reconsider–the claims of Christ. He was born into this world and lived to do His Father’s will. He offered Himself up to death and was raised from the dead so that we who believe might have life. There is no greater decision that you will ever make than what you do with Jesus Christ.
My question for you is, “Do you believe?”
My prayer for you is that you would believe and receive the One who declares Himself to be “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”
“Do You Believe?” by Randall Gearhart
“You know the saying, ‘Four months between planting and harvest.’ But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.”
~Jesus, John 4:35 (New Living Translation)
When the subject of “evangelism” is brought up, most Christians freeze-up at the thought and begin to recite familiar excuses: “Isn’t that the work of the evangelist?” “I thought that was what we pay the pastor to do.” “I don’t feel qualified to share my faith with others.” “I really don’t know what to say.”
And so it goes…
In the above passage, Jesus was trying to awaken his disciples to the spiritual condition of the people right in front of them. “Get your eyes off yourselves for a minute and take a look at these folks…the needs are great, and the time for harvest is NOW!”
People without Christ live an empty existence. They are the walking dead…physically alive, but, spiritually dead in trespasses and sins. But, thank God, Jesus came to bring resurrection life to those who are dead, and He has sent us to declare the Good News of what He has done!
The following recording was made August 18, 2010, for Pastor Bob Yandian and the congregation at GRACE Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
“I See Dead People” by Randall Gearhart
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”
Hebrews 12:1 (NLT)
I wonder how many of God’s people think of this life as a “walk in the park” rather than a “race to be run.” It would be good for each of us to consider whether or not we are giving our all to the One who saves us and gave His life for us.
I pray that as you listen to this message, that God will speak to your heart about the race the is set before you! And I pray that when you hear His voice, you will be willing to obey.
“Run, Christian, Run!” by Randall Gearhart
Here is my message from Mother’s Day 2019. I share some humorous quotes on being a Mom, reflect a bit on the wonderful mothers in my life, and spend some time looking at Mary, the mother of Jesus.
To me, Mary is the consummate mother. The Scripture speaks of her as “blessed among all women.” But even though she was chosen to bear and raise “the perfect child,” Jesus presented some challenges to His mother that would eventually break her heart.
I believe that the future of the human race is held within the heart and hands of God-loving moms. As William Wallace once penned,
“The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.”
The Word of God commands us to give honor where honor is due. And, with that in mind, moms, this message is for you!
“Motherhood: A Divine Trust” by Randall Gearhart
There are two little words that appear over and over again throughout the Scriptures…“But God…” These two words are a point of Divine Intervention in an otherwise hopeless situation. These words can turn tragedy to triumph.
In this message, I will take you through a few of the many places in God’s Word where “But God” changes everything. Those two little words can change your situation, too. If you are facing what appears to be a hopeless mess, remember that God can turn things around for you in a moment of time…and remember, that’s His time, not yours.
“But God…” by Randall Gearhart
A few years ago, I put together a CD of music and verses from the Word of God on the subject of healing.
Paul wrote to the Romans, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” (Romans 10: 17) The psalmist wrote, “Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them out of their distresses. He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.” (Psalms 107:19)
When faith is mixed with God’s Word, His healing power can be realized. I pray that as you listen, the healing that you need will be yours, in Jesus’ name!
“Be Made Whole”
When we receive Christ as Savior and Lord, we begin a brand new life with Him. If we truly understand our union with Christ, we will realize that through the power of God’s Holy Spirit, we can live a righteous and holy life: one that is free from sin.
That doesn’t mean that we can’t sin. It means that we have a choice, since we have been delivered from the power of darkness and brought into the Kingdom of God’s Son.
In this message, I share truth from God’s Word that will give you an advantage over the flesh and enable you to walk in the spirit…and in so doing, glorify God!
“Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.”
~1 Corinthians 15:34 (NKJV)
“How to Stop Sinning” / Randall Gearhart
God has commanded His blessing where “brethren dwell together in unity.” (See Psalm 133:1-3)
If we really believed this, we would do everything in our power to seek unity among God’s people. When Jesus prayed to His Heavenly Father, He said:
“I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” ~John 17:20-23 (NKJV)
The world is waiting to see Jesus Christ in all His glory and power, and God has chosen to reveal Himself to the world through His people, His Church. It’s time that we put away selfish desires and ambitions and seek the unity of the Spirit that will bring the glory, power, and testimony of Jesus Christ. It is amazing what God can and will do through people who pray, work, and walk together in unity!
May God give you eyes to see and ears to hear His Word as you listen.
“Fusion: The Power of One” / Randall Gearhart
God’s intent through the new birth is to create men and women after the image and likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ. After receiving His gracious gift of forgiveness, we should seek to live a holy and righteous life before Him and the world.
Religion tells us that this is not possible–that is inevitable that we will sin. But, the Word of God teaches that sin is a choice.
The good news is, that, we not only have been delivered from the penalty of sin, but also it’s power. With the help of God’s Spirit, it’s possible to show people what Kingdom Living is all about. In so doing, we give testimony to God’s grace and power and show forth His glory.
I pray that God will give you wisdom and revelation through this message.
“Sin No More” / Randall Gearhart
Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. ~2 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV)
The art of perfumery is a unique and interesting one. In this message, I share some thoughts from God’s Word on the power of fragrance–giving special attention to the “fragrance of Christ.” As believers, we ought to be diffusing the scent of God wherever we go. If we are willing to “put off the old man and put on the new,” we will manifest God’s holy presence. I pray that the Spirit of God will give you eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to understand as you listen.
Until a believer learns how to control their thoughts, they will never experience the abundant life that Jesus promised. The mind is the chief battleground where we engage the enemy of our faith. Thank God, we have been given weapons to fight this battle. Paul wrote to the Corinthian church:
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ…” ~ 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NKJV)
In this message, I share scriptural truths that will help you find freedom from the thoughts and lies that keep you imprisoned. “If you continue in the Word you will know the Truth, and the Truth will make you free!
Decisions you make right now can change your life forever. Literally forever. You do not choose to be born. You do not choose your parents. You do not choose the time period in which you live. You do not choose the country of your birth. You do not choose the circumstances of your upbringing. In most case, you do not choose to die. You do not choose the time or conditions of your death.
Despite all the realms of this choicelessness, we do choose how we will live. May you have a glorious ending by beginning today.
“20,000 Days and Counting: The Crash Course for Mastering Your Life Right Now,” ~Robert D. Smith
2018 was the most challenging of my 68 years on this planet. Nevertheless, through God’s amazing grace and love, and the prayers and encouragement of family and friends, I am still standing and have much to be thankful for.
But, “It’s not Thanksgivng!” you say.
Well, we shouldn’t think of thanksgiving as merely a holiday that we observe once a year. Thanksgiving should be the lifestyle of every believer.
Here is my Thanksgiving message given November 2018 at Living Water Fellowship. I pray that God will give you a revelation of the power of a thankful heart as you listen.
“In Everything Give Thanks” ~Randall Gearhart
Methodist minister and theologian, E. Stanley Jones, wrote, “The Church needs nothing so much as it needs a rediscovery of the absolute, the absolute of the Kingdom.” I wholeheartedly agree.
When we receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, we are delivered from one kingdom–the kingdom of darkness–and brought into the Kingdom of God’s Son. To experience all that this new life offers, we must learn how to live in God’s Kingdom.
Jesus did not offer Himself as the sacrifice for our sin just to guarantee us a place in Heaven when die. He came to teach and empower us to live in the Kingdom of God–here and now.
It is my prayer that you will discover this new and abundant life that is available to anyone who will “seek first the kingdom.”
“Seek First the Kingdom” / Randall Gearhart
I started this year at Living Water Fellowship with a series of messages intended to bring positive change to our lives. The start of each new year usually brings with it resolutions to change our ways, break old habits, or “whatever.” But, before long, most of those well-intended resolutions are either broken or forgotten.
Instead of resolutions, I want to give you truth from God’s Word that, when put to work, will produce a revolution in your life. It will bring changes that will help you become the person that God created and called you to be.
It is my prayer that God will speak to you through these messages, and that as you take them to heart, you will experience God’s power at work in you to transform you into His glorious image. So, let the transformation begin!
~Randall Gearhart
Keys to a New Year Revolution, Part One, “Realize”
Keys to a New Year Revolution, Part Two, “Believe”
Keys to a New Year Revolution, Part Three, “Choose”
Keys to a New Year Revolution, Part Four, “Ask”
Keys to a New Year Revolution, Part Five, “Fight”
Keys to a New Year Revolution, Part Six, “Stand”
Here’s a new song from the LWF Worship Team, “Raise a Hallelujah,” recorded live, Sunday, February 10, 2019, at Living Water Fellowship. There is one sure way to shut the devil up…open your mouth and begin to praise the Most High God! So, get your praise on!
Raise A Hallelujah
Verse 1
I raise a hallelujah in the presence of my enemies
I raise a hallelujah louder than the unbelief
I raise a hallelujah my weapon is a melody
I raise a hallelujah Heaven comes to fight for me
Chorus
I’m gonna sing in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes hope will arise
Death is defeated the King is alive
Verse 2
I raise a hallelujah with everything inside of me
I raise a hallelujah I will watch the darkness flee
I raise a hallelujah in the middle of the mystery
I raise a hallelujah fear you lost your hold on me
Bridge
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Bridge
Sing a little louder in the presence of my enemies
Sing a little louder louder than the unbelief
Sing a little louder my weapon is a melody
Sing a little louder Heaven comes to fight for me
(REPEAT)
Sing a little louder
Ending
I raise a hallelujah
CCLI Song # 7119315
Jake Stevens | Jonathan David Helser | Melissa Helser | Molly Skaggs
© 2018 Bethel Music Publishing
For use solely with the SongSelect®. Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com
CCLI License # 2909529
“…as He is, so also are you, in this world.”
~1 John 4:17
Recently, I was honored to officiate at the memorial service of a dear brother in Christ. Ernie Eagle was a faithful believer who showed those who knew him what a true servant looks like. This message was inspired by Ernie’s life and legacy.
Whatever else that God may call us to do in His Kingdom, I believe the greatest calling is that of a servant. And, the true measure of a successful life can only be found in these words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!”