Sermonettes, Illustrations, and Prayers from a United Methodist Country Preacher: Country Preacher, #1

By Leslie Goode

In our earthly journey, as we confront the complexities of daily living and snares of Satan's temptations, the vast majority of people seek, among other things, peace and tranquility. In this search, the seeker must decide on one of two avenues of travel.

• I can get it done by myself. I have all I need to reach this goal and defeat the evil forces.
• The guidance, wisdom, and strength needed can readily be found in trusting God, having faith in God's presence through the Holy Spirit, and studying the principles of God found in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus the Risen Christ.

With the use of short messages (sermonettes), illustrations, and prayers, Rev. Goode guides the reader to a clear understanding of the ramifications of each avenue taken.

As the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart through this book, be reminded that God uses different ways to comfort the afflicted and also to afflict the comfortable.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Leslie Goode
• Release date: Apr 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781736577844

Leslie Goode

Leslie "Les" Goode was born in Chesterfield County, Virginia, in 1941 and attended Midlothian High School. Upon graduation, he completed requirements for a B.A. degree from the University of Richmond, then entered the teaching field in Special Education in Colonial Heights, Virginia. In 1970, he was asked to join the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Special Education. While there, he attained a Master’s Degree in Education and a Master’s Degree in Administration. He served in this position until early retirement brought on by a very vivid and powerful “Word of God” with the instructions, “Feed my sheep.” After receiving a Master of Divinity degree, Les began the exciting and rewarding adventure of becoming a United Methodist country preacher. In 1995, he received the Excellence in Town and Country Ministries award from the Virginia Conference of Global Ministries, presented each year to one pastor who has demonstrated excellence in ministries. Les is now enjoying many facets of retirement with his wife, Renee, in Williamsburg, Virginia. They may be reached at [e-mail].

Book preview

SERMONETTES, ILLUSTRATIONS, AND PRAYERS

FROM

A

UNITED METHODIST COUNTRY PREACHER

A Pathway to the Development of Christlike Behavior

Volume One

And now these three remain:

faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.

- I Corinthians 13:13

Prepared by

The Holy Spirit of God

and

Reverend Leslie Les Goode

Published by Leslie Goode

Williamsburg, Virginia

Copyright © 2021 by Leslie Goode

ISBN 978-1-7365778-0-6 (paperback)

ISBN: 978-1-7365778-4-4 (eBook)

SCRIPTURES TAKEN FROM the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The NIV and New International Version are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

Introduction

The format for this compilation consists of Sermonettes, Illustrations, and Prayers. The illustrations hopefully illuminate the topics of the shortened messages which in turn will invite you to each closing prayer. As the illustrations are read, be prepared to see yourself in many of them. A sermonette may be viewed by some as Spirit-driven, for somebody else. In such a case, maybe after the prayer, the sermonette should be read once again. As to the prayers, each one should be read first before praying. Make notes on the pages as the Holy Spirit crafts the words to become your personal prayer. Use the listed prayers as guides to enhance your talks with God.

One final point, it will assist you greatly to read first the Scripture references cited with each of the sermonettes.

It is my prayer that God, through the Holy Spirit and Jesus the Christ, will use this book to strengthen you on your earthly spiritual journey and further prepare you for your eternal, heavenly home. As you read, be prepared—you might just feel some surprises coming your way!

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, Who art in heaven,

Hallowed be Thy name.

Thy kingdom come,

Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our trespasses,

As we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation,

But deliver us from evil.

For thine is the Kingdom, and the power,

And the glory forever. Amen.

Is P.R.A.Y.E.R. a Part of Your Life?

SERMONETTE

Matthew 6:5-15

An older couple was eating at a restaurant and the man bowed his head and said grace over the meal. A young couple near them had two sons and one asked his father, Why is that man talking to his plate?

Joy can be felt for the older couple as they feel the presence of God and want to give thanks. There is a sense of sadness for the young couple, for one can assume they don’t practice the power of prayer. I believe it’s very difficult to know God’s presence without a daily relationship. Many times we rely on prayer only in emergencies. If you have a very good friend, you don’t wait for an emergency to contact them. Why would you wait for an emergency to talk to God?

I have observed that Christians who believe in God hesitate to take full advantage of God’s power. The Apostle Paul in the New Testament Book of Philippians 4:4, 6-7, tells us to, Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! . . . Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Yes, Paul is saying Rejoice right in the middle of the negative event, not for the event, but rejoice that God is with you and has an answer! It would seem rational that the majority of us make plans. We decide what we want and how we’ll get there. We assume it’s best for us. But, why not run it by a higher power? Something like, If this is your will, affirm it in my spiritual heart.

Why don’t we do this? Because God might plant doubt in you, and you’ll become aware that God is telling you, No. I have a better plan which will require work and trust on your part. One of the side effects of prayer is that God might not agree with you. Prayer will assist you in many ways, including the revelation that you are going the wrong way!

If you’re praying that God will help you enjoy your job more, you might hear God through the Holy Spirit saying, Get another job. Use your gifts and talents better in a more productive way. Prayer throughout your life can be a strong guide for the ultimate plan—eventually to enter God’s Kingdom.

I have always viewed prayer as Plan Realized at Your Eternal Reward. Prayer keeps this plan on track. Prayer gives God the opportunity to react; therefore, it’s important to listen. If you pray for two minutes, listen for two minutes. Don’t pray then immediately say amen; you wouldn’t call a good friend and say something like, Hey, I was thinking of you. Bye, and hang up!

We might agree with Paul’s admonition to not be anxious about anything. It’s hard to have an anxiety attack while you are praying! Also, you can’t deal with thanksgiving and worry in your heart at the same time; it can’t be light and dark at the same time in the same place.

Well, if we’re going to talk to God, what can we talk about? Remember, you don’t have to use big words or correct sentences—just talk to God about what’s on your heart/mind as you would your earthly best friend. As strong as you feel you are, there are still personal matters where wisdom and understanding are needed. Even Jesus asked if the cup could be taken from Him during his crucifixion.

If your position is God already knows—why pray? Remember God wants a relationship! In your prayer life, we should pray for others. If you’re going to pray for a friend’s healing, keep in mind that God knows best—always end such a prayer with, Thy will be done. Pray that you will receive wisdom, patience, and the opportunity to serve. Pray that Jesus will be magnified, and God glorified in your actions. Pray, Let my Christian walk be a beacon for others.

If your P.R.A.Y.E.R. is to be realized at your eternal reward, it will certainly contain thanksgiving, both now and later. Thanks to God for your many blessings and particularly for God’s presence in the one(s) you are presently dealing with. Prayer should be exciting, as it’s your opportunity to be one-on-one with God. It’s alright to bring all joys and concerns to God; just remember to thank God.

As to the reasons we don’t pray, is it really because we can’t find two minutes out of a day of twenty-four hours? Is it because we’re afraid of the answer and want to do it our way? Do we want to try it alone but keep the prayer option open if and when our solution doesn’t turn out as we planned? (When you decide to play with satan, you will get burned every time!)

Get ready for this one: maybe your faith and trust are not strong enough! In the practice of prayer, the inspired word of God through Paul tells us what you can expect. The peace of God which transcends [goes beyond the limit] all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

You can’t think or figure it out—only accept it. Inner tranquility, a peaceful state—God and I have talked! God is always ready. How about you? Are you ready to put into place a plan of life called P.R.A.Y.E.R.?

ILLUSTRATIONS

NO ONE CAN ARGUE WITH the position that the internet provides many opportunities, some good and some bad. One web page featured an offer to electronically beam prayers, hopes, and dreams into space. All you had to do was send your information and $9.95, and it would be launched at the speed of light on a powerful microwave radio beam into deep space. They would be sent far enough out to be interpreted by God. An additional service fee allowed you to send a message to a dear departed one with the assurance that God would deliver the message.

I have a message for you today, and you don’t have to go to the internet to read it—save your money! You can talk with God for free. In prayer, you can talk with God and understand where your life has to be redirected in God’s name to find your peace and joy. What an awesome experience—being able to communicate with the Creator of the universe in God-talk—prayer. Yet, how many days go by without us taking advantage of the opportunity? It’s free. What’s the reason we don’t use it?

THE STORY IS TOLD OF an eight-year-old named Sammy who had a problem and decided to write a letter to God explaining why he needed help. The letter soon found its way to the regional post office and was presented to the postmaster general. The letter explained how Sammy and his mother were all alone and his mother was having a hard time making ends meet. Would the Lord see fit to send his mother one hundred dollars to help out?

The postmaster general and his staff were so moved that together they got up fifty dollars and mailed it to Sammy’s mother. Two weeks later another letter arrived from the boy. Dear God, thank you so much for all You have done, but we need another one hundred dollars. And, if You don’t mind, when You send it to Mama, please don’t use the mail because those people stole fifty dollars last time!

How does God often achieve His miracles? He uses ordinary people just like you and me. Would you be willing to pray that God use you in someone’s miracle?

AS A LITTLE BOY WAS entering the Methodist church one sunny Tuesday at midday, he passed a member of the church who was out for her daily walk. Somewhat curious, she asked the young boy, What were you doing in the church?

She was surprised when the child said he was in the church praying. Thinking that the child might be upset over some situation, she asked, What were you praying for, dear?

Nothing, the child replied. I was just loving Jesus.

When the storms of life hit us individually and as the devil knocks on the door of our hearts, we will be just fine if we let Jesus answer the door.

A CARTOON SHOWED A man in a bar, and he had many complaints. The man said to his drinking companion, I come here to drown my sorrows, but here lately they have learned to swim.

Even in a hectic week, we have many blessings to be thankful for. Wouldn’t it be great if we all started our day with this prayer? Lord, this day is such a blessing mainly because You are with me. What are we going to do today, Lord?

OH, TO FEEL THAT IN prayer you can actually talk with, not to, but with our God; your spirit can actually communicate with the Spirit of the universe. Do you believe that? Yet, we often don’t pray with passion or conviction.

One day a boy was watching a holy man praying on the banks of a river in India. When the holy man completed his prayer, the boy went over and asked him, Will you teach me to pray?

The holy man studied the boy’s face carefully. Then he gripped the boy’s head in his hands and plunged it forcefully into the water. The boy struggled frantically, trying to free himself in order to breathe. Finally, the holy man released his hold.

When the boy was able to get his breath, he gasped, What did you do that for?

The holy man said, I just gave you your first lesson.

What do you mean? asked the astonished boy.

Well, said the holy man, when you long to pray as much as you longed to breathe when your head was under water—only then will you know fully the joy of prayer.

I’m often amazed by the number of people who can’t find time to pray and read Scriptures. We can find time to read the paper, watch TV, use our computer, etc., etc., but not time even for a one-minute prayer. There must be another reason.

Do you really believe in prayer? If yes, then what is the reason for not praying? Why miss the awesome experience of talking with the Force which created it all? You don’t have to have your head put under water. It’s just like talking to your best friend. Hopefully, this will soon be the case with God.

A MAN WAS PLANNING a visit to Japan. It would be his first visit, and he was a little anxious because he couldn’t speak Japanese. How would he communicate with the people he came in contact with?

Since most taxi drivers don’t speak English, someone suggested it might be a good idea to carry with him something bearing the name of the hotel at which he would be staying written in Japanese. That’s exactly what he did. As soon as he arrived in Japan, he picked up a box of matches bearing the name and address of his hotel, then he went out sightseeing.

Afterward, he got into a taxi and did as the friend had suggested. He took the box of matches out of his wallet to show the driver where he wanted to go. There were a few awkward moments before the driver seemed to understand. Finally, his face lit up. Quickly they sped away.

Half an hour later, the taxi came to a screeching halt. The driver turned and beamed at his passenger, pointing out the window. There was only one problem. They had stopped, not in front of the hotel, but in front of the match factory.

You know, I bet the man did get back to the hotel. When life throws us a curve and brings something we didn’t count on, why panic? Why not enjoy the detour? God might have some wonderful surprises. It’s a sure thing that this man got to see parts of Japan he never thought he would.

When things don’t go as we had them all planned out, let’s just go to prayer and simply say, Okay, God, let’s see what You can do with this.

Not only will there be some surprises, but who knows? You might even end up at a better hotel.

WE KNOW THAT, EVEN with the best planning, sometimes things don’t work out as we hope. A husband decided to enrich his marriage and went to a counselor for guidance.

The counselor advised him to think of all the ways he could make life happier for himself and his wife and to do them.

A few days later, the counselor received a phone call in which the husband related the following: After every workday, I return home in my dirty clothes, come in the back door, go to the refrigerator, get something to drink, go to the recreation room and watch television until supper time. After talking with you, I decided I would do better than that in the future. So yesterday before I left work, I showered and shaved and put on a clean shirt. On the way home I stopped at the florist and bought a bouquet of roses, which are my wife’s favorite flower. Instead of going in the back door as I usually do, I went to the front door and rang the doorbell. My wife opened the door, and after taking one look at me in my changed condition, she started to cry. When I asked her what was wrong, she said, ‘It’s been a horrible day. First Billy broke his leg and had to have a cast put on it. I had no sooner returned from the hospital when your mother called to say she was coming to stay for three weeks. I tried to do the wash and the washing machine broke, and there is water all over the basement. And now, to top it all off, you come home drunk!’

PRAYER

DEAR GRACIOUS AND MERCIFUL God, Your presence sometimes seems far away. I sometimes feel as did the psalmist, Why, Lord, do you reject me and hide Your face from me? (Psalm 88:14) For even my best efforts in my earthly journey, disappointments, failures, loss, struggles, and trials come upon me. And in the perceived unfairness of life, I may very well find myself asking why You allowed these to disrupt my life. I know that the cause of such misfortune does not come by Your hand, but yet, such is allowed to be visited upon me.

I know the rain falls on the just and the unjust alike, but there are still times when I find myself looking for You with the word why on my lips. It’s hard for me to see at that time how the situation has given me an opportunity to testify to my faith by proclaiming that Your love will strengthen me even beyond the event; that in overcoming the event, I am fortified to withstand future earthly challenges. It’s often difficult in the moment of unpleasantness to keep my focus on You. I find myself reacting to the exclamation, What am I going to do, and I feel distant from You, only to discover that I am the one who has not included You. And even though Your presence is with me, I am the one who has drifted from You.

Let me be renewed in faith so that I may celebrate Your presence in joy as well as trials. Give me the deep understanding of faith that allows me to always ask, Dear God, what are we going to do?

You have promised the peace that passes all human understanding when trust is given to You. Soothe my impatience; fill me instead with the anticipation of the unfolding of Your loving ways that will provide Your present to me of a better day, a calmer spirit, and a quietness of purpose as I travel my earthly journey to my heavenly home.

Help me to understand that I will not be shielded from all unfairness, but that I can always be assured that, as long as I walk with You, my Spirit—the very essence of who I am—will be protected. Let me search for and feel Your presence with me in each day I am given.

Dear God, I lift up in my heart those whose journey is difficult. Although I pray for their healing, I pray as well for their commitment to place themselves in trust to Your care. I also see the atrocities of sinfulness in the world. I pray that You will raise up people seeking Your will and strengthen them to stand against evil. These I ask in the precious name of Jesus, the Living Savior, who taught the prayer, saying, Our Father . . .