““When you pray, don’t be like hypocrites. They love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners so that people will see them. I assure you, that’s the only reward they’ll get. But when you pray, go to your room, shut the door, and pray to your Father who is present in that secret place. Your Father who sees what you do in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:5-6 CEB
Lord, Teach Me to Pray, Again…
Pastor Kerry Willis
Follow-up to Men’s Bible Study i led this morning from 2 Timothy 4:6a — “I am already being poured out as a drink offering…” Oswald Chambers said this: “Are you ready to be poured out as a drink offering? It is an act of your will, not your emotions. Tell God you are ready to be offered as a sacrifice for Him. Then accept the consequences as they come., without complaining, in spite of what God may send your way… Tell God you are ready to be poured out as an offering, and God will prove Himself to be all you ever dreamed He would be.”
Deo Volente — As God wills.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Happened upon this recent concert by Christian singer, Steve Green, on this my last day of a two-week Hearts Aflame Discipleship Journey in Holy Land.
As i sat still in my Jerusalem hotel awaiting the time to checkout of my room, this concert helped my soul. So i offer it to you. Worth one-hour of your life. Trust me.
https://youtu.be/xl6qTnRAa2I?si=IlZlVbPcWw9IEGac
May all who come behind us find us faithful!
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I am with you, so do not be afraid. I am your God, so do not be upset. I will make you strong and I will help you. My powerful right hand will keep you safe.” Isaiah 41:10 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Then Jesus told him, ‘You believe because you have seen Me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing Me.’” John 20:29 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
It was during my morning prayer time as a local pastor back in 2013, yes, about twelve years ago, that i remember my heart was mightily moved as i had been crying out to Jesus for a spiritual awakening in our world. It seemed from my perspective that even some of those who claimed to be believers in Jesus were subtly but surely joining the ranks of the unrighteous. There seemed to be a fog even among the faithful and the enemy seemed to be inching his way into the body of Christ. i sensed that spiritual slippage was undeniably underway.
This troubling verse of Holy Scripture came to mind: “The Spirit says clearly that in later times some believers will desert the Christian faith. They will follow spirits that deceive, and they will believe the teachings of demons.” — 1 Timothy 4:1 (GWT)
Let us plead the Blood of Jesus for renewal in our own lives, praying that personal revival within our own lives will lead to public revival among the masses and that Jesus will be lifted high once again among us and beyond us, yes, even throughout the whole world like never before.
As some church folk are debating whether or not "sin" is acceptable in the lives of people who claim a personal relationship with Holy God, honestly, my own soul has moved far beyond being extremely mad to being totally sad. i am sad for Jesus. My heart is broken for the One called "The Beautiful One" as some of those who claim to love Him refuse to call sin, sin. Have we too quickly forgotten that sin is what stapled our Savior to the Cross? Not saying we have forgotten, nevertheless, God forgive us and God forbid it, if we have forgotten? Let us return swiftly to our first love for lost souls and for the Loving Savior.
In 1 John 3:8, we discover that "The Son of Man (Jesus) came to destroy the works of the devil." Why shouldn't i be sad when i see even some who wear the name of Christ seemingly attempting to preserve the works of the devil?
Indeed, i still have a question strong on my mind that my executive assistant, Angela, once posted on her church office door: "Have we prayed about it as much as we have talked about it?"
Let’s start praying anew even now for any and all spiritual slippage in our lives to be corrected and let’s intercede for an awakening before it’s too late. Then we will have something praiseworthy to talk about. Yes, even in these last days. So be it. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Holiness Unto the LORD!
Maranatha! Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!
Pastor Kerry Willis
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.” Philippians 2:13 NLT
On my prayer walk yesterday morning, i rewound this passage on the audio Bible App probably a dozen times. Seems the Lord was saying, "Some today, deny the signs that point to the probability that an awakening is underway."
"Jesus answered them, 'Sometimes the sky is red in the evening. Then you say, "Tomorrow the weather will be good." Sometimes in the morning the sky is red and there are dark clouds. Then you say, "Today there will be a storm." So you look at the sky and you know what the weather will be. But special things are happening now and you do not understand what they mean." Matthew 16:2-3 EASY
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
1Prayer is the soul's sincere desire,
unuttered or expressed,
the motion of a hidden fire
that trembles in the breast.
2 Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
the falling of a tear,
the upward glancing of an eye,
when none but God is near.
3 Prayer is the simplest form of speech
that infant lips can try;
prayer the sublimest strains that reach
the Majesty on high.
4 Prayer is the contrite sinners' voice,
returning from their way,
while angels in their songs rejoice
and cry, "Behold, they pray!"
5 Prayer is the Christians' vital breath,
the Christians' native air;
their watchword at the gates of death;
they enter heav'n with prayer.
6 O Thou, by whom we come to God,
the Life, the Truth, the Way;
the path of prayer Thyself hast trod:
Lord, teach us how to pray!
-- James Montgomery, 1700s Scotland
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
"For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." Ephesians 2:18-22 KJV
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
““Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is. You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand. My entire lifetime is just a moment to You; at best, each of us is but a breath.” Interlude. We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth, not knowing who will spend it. And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in You.” Psalms 39:4-7 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Hiding hatred makes you a liar; slandering others makes you a fool. The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled; the hopes of the godly will be granted. When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the godly have a lasting foundation." Proverbs 10:18, 24-25 NLT
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
This Southern Gospel song touched my heart deeply, today:
I've come too far to look back again
There is nothing behind me
All the pleasures I used to love
Have all faded from view
There's a new day ahead for me
My heartache is over
I left it at calvary
Where my new life begins
I've come too far to look back
My feet have walked through the valley
I've climbed mountains, crossed rivers
Desert places I've known
But I'm nearing the home shore
The redeemed are rejoicing
And heaven's angels are singing
I've come too far to look back
Look around, there's unhappiness
Some see no reason for living
Life will give you a broken dream
Full of heartache and fear
Turn around, don't look back again
Face the new day before you
Place your heartache in Jesus' hand
He will mend broken dreams
I've come too far to look back
My feet have walked through the valley
And I've climbed mountains, crossed rivers
Desert places I've known
But I'm nearing the home shore
The redeemed are rejoicing
And heaven's angels are singing
I've come too far to look back
But I'm nearing the home shore
The redeemed are rejoicing
And heaven's angels are singing
I've come too far to look back
Too far to look back
https://youtu.be/SDo8ZKC1GW8?si=wEKMqlWSINWiVeK-
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I will sing of your love and justice, Lord. I will praise you with songs. I will be careful to live a blameless life— when will you come to help me? I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. I hate all who deal crookedly; I will have nothing to do with them. I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil. I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride. I will search for faithful people to be my companions. Only those who are above reproach will be allowed to serve me. I will not allow deceivers to serve in my house, and liars will not stay in my presence. My daily task will be to ferret out the wicked and free the city of the Lord from their grip.” Psalms 101:1-8 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born. He assigned the sea its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. Let the whole world fear the Lord, and let everyone stand in awe of Him. For when He spoke, the world began! It appeared at His command.” Psalms 33:6-9 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock! There is no evil in Him!” Psalms 92:12-15 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“The highest angelic powers stand in awe of God. He is far more awesome than all who surround His throne. O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies! Where is there anyone as mighty as You, O Lord? You are entirely faithful.” Psalms 89:7-8 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.” Psalms 51:10-12 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
https://youtu.be/Z7-ehfxI4uA?si=Ft0jG9WqvXjeB8ua
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him? Day and night I have only tears for food, while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, “Where is this God of yours?” My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be: I walked among the crowds of worshipers, leading a great procession to the house of God, singing for joy and giving thanks amid the sound of a great celebration! Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember you— even from distant Mount Hermon, the source of the Jordan, from the land of Mount Mizar. I hear the tumult of the raging seas as your waves and surging tides sweep over me. But each day the Lord pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life. “O God my rock,” I cry, “why have you forgotten me? Why must I wander around in grief, oppressed by my enemies?” Their taunts break my bones. They scoff, “Where is this God of yours?” Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!” Psalms 42:1-11 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Now who is there to hurt you if you become enthusiastic for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness [though it is not certain that you will], you are still blessed [happy, to be admired and favored by God]. Do not be afraid of their intimidating threats, nor be troubled or disturbed [by their opposition]. But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect. [Is 8:12, 13] And see to it that your conscience is entirely clear, so that every time you are slandered or falsely accused, those who attack or disparage your good behavior in Christ will be shamed [by their own words]. For it is better that you suffer [unjustly] for doing what is right, if that should be God’s will, than [to suffer justly] for doing wrong.” 1 Peter 3:13-17 AMP
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings." Psalms 84:5-6 NLT
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I took a resolution to give myself up to GOD, as the best satisfaction I could make for my sins; and, for the love of Him, to renounce all besides. For the first years, I commonly employed myself during the time set apart for devotion, with the thoughts of death, judgement, hell, heaven, and my sins. Thus I continued some years applying my mind carefully the rest of the day, and even in the midst of my business, to the presence of GOD, whom I considered always as with me, often as in me. At length I came insensibly to do the same thing during my set time of prayer, which caused in me great delight and consolation. This practice produced in me so high an esteem for GOD, that faith alone was capable to satisfy me in that point.”
Excerpt From The Practice of the Presence of God — Brother Lawrence
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.” Isaiah 41:13 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"I am sick of opinions. Give me a humble, gentle lover of God and man, a man full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality or hypocrisy. Bigotry is too strong an attachment to our own creed or opinion. How unwilling men are to allow anything good in those who do not agree with them in all things. We must not narrow the cause of God to our own beliefs, but rejoice in goodness wherever it appears." John Wesley
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face continually [longing to be in His presence].” 1 Chronicles 16:11 AMP
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“With all my heart I will praise You, O Lord my God. I will give glory to Your name forever, for Your love for me is very great. You have rescued me from the depths of death.” Psalms 86:12-13 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
A prayer friend of mine let me know how he was praying for our summer Campmeeting:
"May God move in power in this campmeeting. May people who arrive sick, be healed. May people who arrive afraid, be strengthened. May people who arrive anxious, find rest. May people who arrive worried, have the Word wash their mind. May people who arrive lonely get reacquainted with the Friend they have in Jesus. Amen."
So be it.
Pastor Kerry Willis
Took a quiet day this week and was reminded of an anthem of my own soul…
https://youtu.be/dBxSJWjB8vM?si=HOTg0YzWCCypQFqr
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Lord, You’re the breeze in the trees, You’re the paint in the petals, You’re the life in the leaves, You have all things on schedule. Amen. -kww #itrustYou #andYourtiming
"Fully Surremdered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.” Jude 1:22-23 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
A friend sent me this song recently saying it reminded him of me… tender encouragement…
https://youtu.be/R_zI1Iy5_EQ?si=Jj7A9If7hXlEeg6K
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Lord, let us experience the real freedom that comes from Your true holiness in our lives. Yes, freedom in knowing You are the Supreme Controller, indeed, The Master of every detail associated with our very lives. Amen." -kww
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I have heard all about You, Lord. I am filled with awe by Your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as You did in years gone by. And in Your anger, remember Your mercy.” Habakkuk 3:2 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God’s Son from heaven—Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment.” 1 Thessalonians 1:10 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
(3) ”But the Lord is faithful; He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. (5) May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3, 5 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could He die, and only by dying could He break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could He set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.” Hebrews 2:14-15 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, He has spoken to us through His Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son He created the universe. The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and He sustains everything by the mighty power of His command. When He had cleansed us from our sins, He sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave Him is greater than their names.” Hebrews 1:1-4 NLT
[i am…] “Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“We are carefully joined together in Him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. Through Him you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.” Ephesians 2:21-22 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. But nothing is pure to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, because their minds and consciences are corrupted. Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.” Titus 1:15-16 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Timothy, I tell you this seriously, as God and Christ Jesus see everything that we do. When Christ Jesus comes to rule as king, he will judge everyone. He will judge the people who are alive and also those who have already died. When he appears, he will decide what should happen to them all. So I tell you this now: Tell God's message to people. Always be ready to speak God's message clearly to people, whether they want to listen to you or not. Warn people when they are doing something wrong. Tell them to stop doing wrong things, and explain to them what they ought to do. But be very patient while you teach them what is true. Do this, because a time will come when people will not listen to God's true message. Instead, they will want to hear all kinds of new messages that will make them happy. So they will find many teachers for themselves who will tell them what they want to hear. People will refuse to listen to God's true message. Instead, they will want to listen to silly stories that are false. But you yourself must continue to think seriously and clearly. Be patient and brave when troubles come. Continue to tell the good news about Christ to people. Do all the work that God has given you to do as his servant.” 2 Timothy 4:1-5 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“All our worry is caused by calculating without God. Have you been propping up that stupid soul of yours with the idea that your circumstances are too much for God? Put your anxiousness away, and dwell in the shadow of the Almighty. Deliberately tell God that you will not worry. Pray to him, “Lord, I take you into my calculations as the biggest factor now.”
Do not fret—it leads only to evil. —Psalm 37:8
- Oswald Chambers
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
For my waking breath for my daily bread
I depend on You, I depend on You
For the sun to rise for my sleep at night
I depend on You, I depend on You
You're the way the truth and the life
You're the well that never runs dry
I'm the branch and You are the vine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
Where the Spirit leads as I'm following
I depend on You, I depend on You
For the victories still in front of me
I depend on You, I depend on You
You're the way the truth and the life
You're the well that never runs dry
I'm the branch and You are the vine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
Be my strength my song in the night
Be my all my treasure my prize
I am Yours forever Your mine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
When I pass through death as I enter rest
I depend on You, I depend on You
For eternal life to be raised with Christ
I depend on You, I depend on You
You're the way the truth and the life
You're the well that never runs dry
I'm the branch and You are the vine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
Be my strength my song in the night
Be my all my treasure my prize
I am Yours forever Your mine
Draw me close and teach me to abide
Here I am Lord
Would you teach me to abide
Teach me
Would you teach me
I depend on You, I depend on You
Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You
Oh, oh
I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You
I depend on You, I depend on You
--Dwell Songs
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts.” 1 Thessalonians 2:4 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"When danger is near, the Lord will keep me safe. He will take care of me in His home. He will put me in a safe place, on the top of a high rock." Psalms 27:5 EASY
"But I surely believe that I will see how good the Lord is! I will know His love while I still live in this world. Wait for the Lord to help you! Be strong and brave. Yes, wait for the Lord to help you!" Psalms 27:13-14 EASY
"Fully Surrenedered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“We praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has blessed us in very many ways. Because we belong to Christ, we enjoy all the good things that come from heaven. God blesses our spirits with those good things. Before God made the world, he chose us to be his people because of Christ. He chose us so that we would please him. Because we belong to Christ, God accepts us as completely good. This shows how much he loves us.” Ephesians 1:3-4 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]” Philippians 4:13 AMP
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Those who know Your name trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You.” Psalms 9:10 NIV
“And those who know Your name [who have experienced Your precious mercy] will put their confident trust in You, For You, O Lord, have not abandoned those who seek You. [Ps 42:1]” Psalms 9:10 AMP
“Everyone who knows You, Lord, trusts in You. You never turn away from anyone who comes to You for help.” Psalms 9:10 EASY
“God’s a safe-house for the battered, a sanctuary during bad times. The moment you arrive, you relax; you’re never sorry you knocked.” Psalms 9:9-10 MSG
“Those who know Your name trust You, O Lord, because You have never deserted those who seek Your help.” Psalms 9:10 GW
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” Colossians 3:8-10 NLT
“Fully Surrender to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and He lives in all of us." Colossians 3:11 NLT
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, Who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all His glory.” Colossians 3:1-4 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through Him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see-- such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through Him and for Him. He existed before anything else, and He holds all creation together. Christ is also the head of the church, which is His body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So He is first in everything. For God in all His fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through Him God reconciled everything to Himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross." Colossians 1:15-20 NLT
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for Him. We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it.” Philippians 1:29-30 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.”Philippians 1:27 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Then they reached Jericho, and as Jesus and his disciples left town, a large crowd followed him. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) was sitting beside the road. When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” “Be quiet!” many of the people yelled at him. But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, “Tell him to come here.” So they called the blind man. “Cheer up,” they said. “Come on, he’s calling you!” Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My Rabbi,” the blind man said, “I want to see!” And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.” Mark 10:46-52 NLT
Can you imagine the healed blind man of Jericho following Jesus down the road after regaining his sight! My guess is he was the dancing witness of Jericho on that glorious day and beyond. What joy.
“Fully Surrendrred to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Sometimes i fear some attending our local churches even these days still have the attitude of Herod when it comes to the way they interact with the preacher’s messages — disturbed but unchanged:
“…for Herod respected John (the Baptist); and knowing that he was a good and holy man, he protected him. Herod was greatly disturbed whenever he talked with John, but even so, he liked to listen to him.” Mark 6:20 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, "Abba, Father." Now you are no longer a slave but God's own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir." Galatians 4:6-7 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
A friend sent me this song today and said whenever he hears it he thinks of me. So encouraging.
https://youtu.be/v78Cdfsj4Wc?si=wMJpXCYWSmkqq2yZ
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
On Pentecost Sunday, June 8, 2025, i was invited for my second time in almost eight years, to speak on Sunday morning at the church i pastored from 1994-2018. i hope the service serves to inspire your life towards deeper intimacy with the Lord. The message is titled “The Spirit of Pentecost.”
https://www.youtube.com/live/yHZkOmCaaUs?si=xIvrJKuwiy6wtqKZ
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“If we fail to honestly confront sin and brokenness, we have not loved. If we fail to love, we cannot participate in God's healing of brokenness.” Church of the Nazarene, Manual, Covenant of Christian Conduct
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Acts 1 AMP
5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized and empowered and united with the Holy Spirit, not long from now." 6 So when they had come together, they asked Him repeatedly, "Lord, are You at this time reestablishing the kingdom and restoring it to Israel?" 7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know the times or epochs [ages] which the Father has fixed by His own authority. 8 But you will receive power and ability when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses [to tell people about Me] both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the ends of the earth."
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in His suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing His glory when it is revealed to all the world. If you are insulted because you bear the name of Christ, you will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.” 1 Peter 4:12-14 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
This song written and sung by Larnelle Harris has been so very inspiring in my own life:
“When Praise Demands a Sacrifice”
The call to go to mount Moriah
came to Abraham
But the offering placed
before the Lord was not a lamb
He bound His only son
and when the knife was raised
A sacrifice became the price of praise
When praise demands a sacrifice,
I'll worship even then
Surrendering the dearest things in life
And if devotion costs me all
He'll find me faithful to His call
When praise demands a sacrifice
The call to go to Calvary
came to God's own Son
An altar waited for the lamb
He would become
His hands reached up to heaven
as the cross was raised
And with His life
He paid the price of praise
When praise demands a sacrifice,
I'll worship even then
Surrendering the dearest things in life
And if devotion costs me all
He'll find me faithful to His call
When praise demands a sacrifice
God hears the words of praise we lift
Yet I have found
He's honored more by what I'm willing to lay down
When praise demands a sacrifice,
I'll worship even then
Surrendering the dearest things in life
And if devotion costs me all
He'll find me faithful to His call
When praise demands a sacrifice
When praise demands a sacrifice,
I'll worship even then
Surrendering the dearest things in life
And if devotion costs me all
He'll find me faithful to His call
When praise demands a sacrifice
https://youtu.be/4DX6RYEht3Q?si=VdEU0BR8_9ygRho6
“Fully Surremdered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“‘I do not pray only for these people, My disciples. I pray also for those people who will believe in Me because of My disciples' message. I pray that all of them will become united. You, Father, are in Me and I am in You. I pray that they also will be united in Us. Then the world's people will believe that You sent Me.” Jesus Praying —John 17:20-21 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"God, who knows the heart, showed that He accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us. He did not discriminate between us and them, for He purified their hearts by faith." Acts 15:8-9 NIV
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.” Psalms 126:5-6 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Told an old friend this today:
"I truly believe that when we do not cease to be grateful for what God has done, it gives Him more favor to do the things He has not yet done."
I also reminded him of an old Kerryism from my local pastoring days:
Let us…
"Savor yesterday’s memories.
Seize today’s moments.
See tomorrow’s miracles."
Let’s be…
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Some people continue to trust God even when troubles happen. God will bless those people, if they show that they really trust Him. He will give them the gift which is life with Him. He has promised to give this gift to all people who love Him.” James 1:12 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Only by the power of the Holy Spirit within us as preachers will our exhorting of God's Word effectively cut to the heart of human beings as they listen to the messages we share." -kww
"When the people heard this (Peter at Pentecost) they were cut to the heart..." Acts 2:37a NIV
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Sometimes it takes just a simple Bible verse to amaze me and to bless my soul. Today, it was this one:
“After Jesus left the synagogue with James and John, they went to Simon and Andrew’s home.” Mark 1:29 NLT
Think about it. Can you imagine Jesus coming to your home after a church service? Amazing for me to consider.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Joseph Parker, an English preacher of the nineteenth century, once said, "If we, as the church, do not get back to spiritual visions, glimpses of heaven, and an awareness of a greater glory and life, we will lose our faith. Our altar will become nothing but cold, empty stone, never blessed with a visit from heaven." And this is the world's need today— people who have seen their Lord. - Cowman
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“It was said by Chesterfield, the heartless dandy, upon his return from visiting Francois Fenelon, the Archbishop of Cambrai: "If I had stayed another day in his presence, I am afraid I would have had to become a Christian; his spirit was so pure, so attractive and beautiful." Cowman
Presence Matters Most!
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Humility is perfect quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble. It is never to be fretted or vexed, or irritated, or sore, or disappointed; it is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when I am blamed and despised. It is to have a blessed home in the Lord where I can go in and shut the door and kneel to my Father in secret, and be at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness when all around and above is trouble." - Cowman, copied from an old bookmark.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us, [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work]. [Ps 110:1] Just consider and meditate on Him who endured from sinners such bitter hostility against Himself [consider it all in comparison with your trials], so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3 AMP
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Perhaps my message preached this Lord’s Day following Easter 2025 will be a blessing to you…
https://www.youtube.com/live/xEOQ8mlGJaw?si=98lEwtoVTL4wKN1O
Shalom. Shalom.
Pastor Kerry Willis
In my life, Lord, be glorified, be magnified, be lifted high, be satisfied, today, and day-by-day. Amen.
This is my moment-by-moment prayer, precious Jesus. Amen, again.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
I love to hear everyone get all theological about the term sanctification. Many convoluted definitions are given and I’ve probably given a few of those myself along the way. Still, what we as humans forget too often, is this: Sanctification, or to render one Holy, is a God-Thing!
If sanctification is a God-Thing, then what is our part in sanctification? Our part is simply to surrender our all to Holy God, Whose “Thing” is Holiness! As we give up our right to rule our own lives, He puts us in right relationship with Himself. Yes, He alone makes us holy. To surrender is to prove we really believe Holy God is willing and able and ready to sanctify us.
While our part in sanctification is simply to surrender, “simply surrendering” is not necessarily an easy thing. Simple and easy are not synonymous. For example, it’s a simple thing for a millionaire to go to the bank and withdraw a million dollars to give to the poor, but perhaps it’s not easy?
Finally, if we don’t surrender our all to God, and instead continue clinging to our stuff, our dreams, our sin, it will eventually cost us everything that is holy. Even eternal life will eventually escape our embrace if we refuse to wholly surrender to Holy God.
Have we wholly surrendered our all to Jesus, yet? Is living in full surrender to Him our preferred lifestyle?
Galatians 2:20 comes to mind: “I am crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ now lives in me. And the life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved and gave Himself for me.”
He is waiting for and worthy of our wholehearted surrender. The wholly surrendered life, that leads to the entirely sanctified life, is truly the most wonderful life ever, and it lasts for… forever.
Let’s Be Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!
Presence Matters Most!
No Invisible People! UNITY!
Pastor Kerry Willis
This passage reveals a lot of compassion on Jesus’ part and a lack of compassion on the religious leaders’ part:
"Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. If he healed the man’s hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath. Jesus said to the man with the deformed hand, "Come and stand in front of everyone." Then he turned to his critics and asked, "Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?" But they wouldn’t answer him. He looked around at them angrily and was deeply saddened by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, "Hold out your hand." So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus." Mark 3:1-6 NLT
Imagine this scene. Jesus shows compassion and the religious leaders began to plot for the death of Jesus. Because Jesus loved, they hated Him. Jesus wanted to save souls. The religious wanted to destroy the Savior. Heart-wrenching.
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Abba Father, apart from Your strength, we would surely faint as we journey onward. Make us more aware of Your Holy Spirit’s never-ending power and presence with and within us. In the Wonderful Name of King Jesus, we pray. Amen.” -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
The idea of Jesus’ blood has been mysterious and offensive for quite a while, yet redemptive:
"So Jesus said again, "I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you cannot have eternal life within you. But anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise that person at the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. I live because of the living Father who sent me; in the same way, anyone who feeds on me will live because of me. Many of his disciples said, "This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?" Jesus was aware that his disciples were complaining, so he said to them, "Does this offend you? At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him." John 6:53-57, 60-61, 66 NLT
"Fully Surremdered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
Often my Mom, Lady Melba, shares in testimony over the phone a particular song that’s on her heart. Here’s her song for today:
“Let me lose myself and find it, Lord, in Thee.
May all self be slain, my friend, see only Thee.
Though it costs me grief and pain,
I will find my life again.
If I lose myself I'll find it, Lord, in Thee.”
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I love the Lord, because he heard me when I called to him. He listened carefully to me. I will always pray to him, for as long as I live. The danger of death was very near to me. I was afraid of the deep hole of death. I was very sad and upset. Then I called out to the Lord. I said, ‘Lord, please save my life!’ The Lord is kind and fair. Yes, our God is very kind. The Lord takes care of helpless people. I was in danger of death, and he saved me! So now I know that I am safe again. The Lord has been very good to me. Yes, Lord, you saved me from death! My eyes no longer weep, and I do not fall down to the ground. Now I will serve the Lord here in this world where people live. I trusted in the Lord even when I said, ‘I have much pain.’ I was upset and I said, ‘Everybody tells lies.’ The Lord has done many kind things to help me. What can I give back to him? I will offer a cup of wine to the Lord, to thank him because he saved me! I will worship him. I will give to the Lord everything that I have promised. I will do that when all his people meet together. The Lord is sad when one of his servants dies, because their lives are valuable to him. Lord, I am truly your servant. I am like a slave in your house. You have saved me from death. I will offer a sacrifice to you to say ‘thank you’. I will worship you as Lord. I will give to the Lord everything that I have promised. I will do that when all his people meet together, in the yard of the Lord's temple. Yes, I will worship you in your temple in Jerusalem. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!” Psalms 116:1-19 EASY
This Phil Driscoll song, “Christ Remains”, has held my soul strong many days and still even to this day…
https://youtu.be/L1b0PbsaS5E?si=GBUJ3lw8aulDJUh2
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“O praise the Lord, all you nations! Praise Him, all you people! [* Rom 15:11] For His lovingkindness prevails over us [and we triumph and overcome through Him], And the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)” Psalms 117:1-2 AMP
* “And again, “Praise the Lord all you Gentiles, And let all the peoples praise Him!” Romans 15:11 AMP
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"The Red Sea saw them (God’s people) coming and hurried out of their way! The water of the Jordan River turned away. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs! What’s wrong, Red Sea, that made you hurry out of their way? What happened, Jordan River, that you turned away? Why, mountains, did you skip like rams? Why, hills, like lambs? Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob." Psalms 114:3-7 NLT
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Then Jesus turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, HAS NOT STOPPED KISSING MY FEET. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Luke 7:44-48 NIV
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
If you want wisdom, you will appropriate humility into your heart. Humility delivers wisdom as a chauffeur delivers his client. Wisdom travels with humility. In some ways, wisdom takes a back seat to humility. -Bible App
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Moreover, the crown jewel of wisdom’s accumulation is the fear of the Lord.
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline” (Proverbs 1:7).
The fear of God positions you to receive wisdom. Having no fear of God means you lack wisdom. No wonder our world is filled with fools. — Bible App Reading Plan
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Today, i will preach the memorial service for my mentor of presence, Dr. Stephen Manley, in Lebanon, Tennessee. Nearly a year ago standing in a church parking lot, Dr. Manley and i were sharing tenderly in the wake of his recent brain cancer diagnosis. When i asked if there was anything i could do for him other than to pray, he said, "Yes, you can preach my funeral." i was breathless.
As i write, it’s about four hours before the memorial service. i have been preparing for weeks and am still shuffling spiritual thoughts around in my mind.
Surely, these words spoken by Jesus will be part of what i speak: "Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." (Matthew 5:3) This verse is what Dr. Manley called "The Premise of the Sermon of the Mount" taught by Jesus. In other words, if we forget that we are spiritually helpless apart from Him, we have no hope of living His requirements in the Sermon. So freeing.
i will likely begin my time of sharing about how my first impression and my last impression of Dr. Manley was that he was a true worshipper of Jesus. His personal worship and undeniable intimacy with the Lord is really what made his evangelistic messages so powerfully appealing. He was truly merged as one with the Master.
We met in December of 1992 at Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he was my professor of evangelism. That encounter changed the trajectory of my ministry forever. This hero of the faith became my faithful and forever friend. Speaking of forever, we shall meet again on that beautiful shore, because friends are friends forever if the Lord’s the Lord of them. Amen.
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Jesus, You embraced our darkness, so we could enter Your Light. You are Faithful. We are grateful. Amen.” -kww
Prophecy about the passion week of Jesus: “You have taken My loved ones and friends far away from Me. Darkness is My only friend.” Psalm 88:18 GW
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"To continue in sin is to futilely seek soul fulfillment apart from an intimate relationship with the Savior, Jesus Himself." -kww
"Listen! Whoever is thirsty, come to the water! Whoever has no money can come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk. You don’t have to pay; it’s free! Why do you spend money on what cannot nourish you and your wages on what does not satisfy you? Listen carefully to me: Eat what is good, and enjoy the best foods. Open your ears, and come to me! Listen so that you may live! I will make an everlasting promise to you-- the blessings I promised to David." Isaiah 55:1-3 GW
"On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus was standing ⌞in the temple courtyard⌟. He said loudly, "Whoever is thirsty must come to me to drink. As Scripture says, ‘Streams of living water will flow from deep within the person who believes in me.’ "Jesus said this about the Spirit, whom his believers would receive. The Spirit was not yet evident, as it would be after Jesus had been glorified." John 7:37-39 GW
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“If anyone lives in Almighty God's safe place, the Most High God protects them. I will say to the Lord, ‘You are the strong place where I will be safe. You are my God, and I trust in you.’ God will keep you safe, so that no trap will catch you. He will not let any illness kill you. He will keep you safe, like a bird keeps its babies safe under its wings. Because he is faithful, he will keep you safe like a shield and armour. Do not be afraid of danger that comes in the night, or of your enemy's arrows during the day. Do not be afraid of any illness that comes when it is dark, or any trouble that comes in the middle of the day. A thousand people may die near you. Even ten thousand people may die at your side. But nothing will hurt you. Your own eyes will see this happen. You will see wicked people receive the punishment that they deserve. You have come to the Lord to make you safe. The Most High God has become your home. No bad thing will happen to you. No illness will come to your home. For God will tell his angels to keep you safe. They will protect you wherever you go. They will hold you safely in their hands, so that you do not hurt your foot on a stone. You will win against lions and snakes. You will walk over them! The Lord says, ‘If someone loves me, I will keep him safe. Because he worships me, I will protect him. When he calls to me for help, I will answer him. When he has trouble, I will be with him. I will rescue him, and people will respect him. I will give him a long life, so that he is happy. He will see that I have the power to save people.’” Psalms 91:1-16 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
This morning I awoke at 1:35 AM, after dreaming about being in a worship service. The song we were singing was one I had never heard, and so when I awoke, I was careful to write down the lyrics that I remembered. It truly inspired me:
"Who can build a home in us? (3 times) Jesus!"
After writing down the line from the new song, i immediately remembered this verse:
"Jesus replied, "All who love Me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and We will come and make our home with each of them." John 14:23 NLT
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“God’s provision frees us from traps. Simple obedience is our role; provision is God’s. Scarcity is a tactic the enemy often uses to dissuade us from following God’s purposes. God delights in sustaining His children in the work He calls them into.” -Bible App Devo
“Give us this day our daily bread.” -Jesus
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Trust in the Lord completely. Do not think that you understand things well enough for yourself. Whatever you are doing, remember that the Lord is with you. Then He will show you the right way to go.” Proverbs 3:5-6 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
This powerful passage was a portion of my Lent reading, today:
“My friends, I know that people are causing you to have bad trouble. It is like a fire that is burning you. Do not be surprised about that. These things are happening to you, to show whether you really trust God. Do not think that something strange is happening to you. Instead, be happy when you have trouble. Remember that Christ also received much trouble and pain. If you suffer like He did, then you will be happy when He returns. At that time, everyone will see how great Christ really is. Then you will be very happy with a great joy. People may insult you because you belong to Christ. But God will bless you when that happens. It shows that the Holy Spirit is with you. He is God's great Spirit.” 1 Peter 4:12-14 [EASY]
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"My Christian friends, remember to be happy, even when many kinds of trouble happen to you. Troubles can help you. God wants to see if you really trust Him. Your faith in God will become stronger as a result of these troubles. So you should continue to trust God all the time. Then you will become stronger as a believer. You will become completely how you should be. You will not need anything more." James 1:2-4 EASY
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“If Jesus is only a teacher, then all He can do is tantalize us, to erect a standard we cannot attain to; but if we know Him first as Savior, if we are born again of the Spirit of God, we know that He did not come to teach us only, but that He came to make us what He teaches us we should be.” Oswald Chambers
Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
George Mueller was responsible for caring physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually for 10,000 orphans during his life of ministry in Bristol, England is the 1800s.
When he died at age 92, the whole city came to a standstill to grieve and to honor his passing. The local newspaper, The Bristol Times, displayed this headline:
GEORGE MUELLER WAS RASIED UP FOR THE PURPOSE OF SHOWING THAT THE AGE OF MIRACLES HAS NOT PASSED.
These were his life principles:
1. Trusting in God
2. Living by Faith
3. Absolute Belief in God’s Word
When asked if he was a super hero of prayer and miracles, he replied:
"I (only) live in the spirit of prayer. I pray as I walk, when I lie down, and when I rise. In all my temporal and spiritual concerns, I pray to the Lord, and expect an answer to my requests. Anyone has the same access to God as me."
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
This has been my saturation passage all morning:
“A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!” Instantly the leprosy disappeared, and the man was healed. Then Jesus sent him on his way with a stern warning: “Don’t tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed.” But the man went and spread the word, proclaiming to everyone what had happened. As a result, large crowds soon surrounded Jesus, and he couldn’t publicly enter a town anywhere. He had to stay out in the secluded places, but people from everywhere kept coming to him.” Mark 1:40-45 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to meet with the believers, but they were all afraid of him. They did not believe he had truly become a believer! Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached boldly in the name of Jesus in Damascus. So Saul stayed with the apostles and went all around Jerusalem with them, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord.” Acts of the Apostles 9:26-28 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Post-Pentecost Christianity is much less about imitating Christ and much more about demonstrating Christ.” -kww
“But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image.” 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Jesus said, ‘I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. Some branches that are part of me may have no fruit on them. My Father completely removes all those branches. But other branches do have fruit. My Father cuts all those branches to make them better. Then they will be good and make more fruit. The words that I have spoken to you have made you good already. Continue to live in me, and I will continue to live in you. A branch cannot make fruit by itself. It can make fruit only if it continues to be part of the vine. You are like that. You cannot make fruit unless you continue to live in me. I am the vine, and you are the branches. You must continue to live in me and I must continue to live in you. Only if you do that will you make plenty of fruit. That is because you can do nothing without me. If anyone does not remain in me, that person is like a dead branch. The gardener will throw that branch away and it will die. People throw all those dead branches into the fire so that they burn. You must remain in me, and my teaching must remain in you. Then you may ask for anything that you want. God will do it for you. If you make plenty of fruit, that will give honour to my Father. You will show that you are truly my disciples.” Jesus’ Words, John 15:1-8 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Lord, i praise You with my lips, empower me to please You with my living. Amen.” -kww
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.” Philippians 2:13 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Thoughts About The Season of Lent
Well, the Season of Lent 2025 is upon us. i feel compelled to share with you some tender thoughts I have been pondering:
General Thoughts of mine for Lent:
Lent mirrors the 40-day period of fasting that Jesus modeled and we read about in Matthew's Gospel account. Some Lent observers choose to have ash placed on their foreheads as the Season of Lent commences on Ash Wednesday. The ashes that are traditionally used are created by the burning of palm branches from the previous year's Palm Sunday celebrations. (This idea seems beautifully symbolic to me.) As the ashes are applied, the shape of the cross is re-enacted as the words from Genesis 3:19 are spoken: "You are dust, and to dust you shall return."
In a way, Ash Wednesday has a way of pointing my heart towards the words of Jesus recorded in Matthew 5:3a -- "Blessed are the poor in Spirit…" My translation is "You’re blessed if you realize how very desperate you are for God at all times." (Remembering we are essentially dust, helps us embrace how desperate we truly are for our Creator God and the giving of His Son to save us from condemnation (John 3:16-17). Also, we should be reminded that while we are dust, we are undeniably very valuable dust to God.
But there’s more. Lent and the ashes invite us to remember repentance, even mourning, as we lay ourselves bare before Holy God, asking Him to search our lives as we seek and saturate in the deep thoughts of His precious life, His sacrificial death, and His powerful resurrection.
Lent is a holy leaning-in season, a spiritual learning session, and a prayer laboratory setup for the continued transformation and inspiration of our never-dying souls. Let us not waste this sacred 40-day timeframe. May it serve to lead us into renewed wonder, revived love, and reverent praise. -kww
Devotional Thoughts from another about Lent:
Lent is the opportunity to change what we ought to change but have not... Lent is about becoming, doing and changing whatever it is that is blocking the fullness of life in us right now... Lent is a summons to live anew... Lent is the time to let life in again, to rebuild the worlds we've allowed to go sterile, to "fast and weep and mourn" for the goods we've foregone.
If our own lives are not to die from lack of nourishment, we must sacrifice the pride or the sloth or the listlessness that blocks us from beginning again. Then, as Joel 2:12-18 promises, God will have pity on us and pour into our hearts the life we know down deep that we are lacking.
-- Joan Chittister
Finally, as i compiled these thoughts concerning Lent, 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT) has been strong on my mind: "Then if My people who are called by My name, WILL humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I WILL hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land."
If we WILL, God WILL! What a Glorious Hope!
MPastor Kerry Willis
“I know two things Jesus is surely doing in Heaven:
1. He is preparing a place for us.
2. He is praying for us.”
- Pastor Wayne Krell
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
The best and most tender 6 minutes and 39 seconds of my day so far. i miss Rich Mullins.
https://youtu.be/pmJMZuEKGYU?si=AH1-fxj9vrwiBxNZ
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
A young man i led to Jesus last July texted me this morning to say he just led his friend to Christ at the farm they work on together.
He added: “There were tears of joy on the farm this morning.”
New converts often make great soul winners. Jesus is satisfied. Amen.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives. Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into His glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to Him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are His before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen.” Jude 1:23-25 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“God blesses those people who depend only on him. They belong to the kingdom of heaven!” Matthew 5:3 CEV
“Happy are the people who know that they need God very much. The kingdom of heaven belongs to people like that.” Matthew 5:3 EASY
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Sometimes God’s answer to our prayer is NO, but when He says NO, He often adds an INSTEAD.
God said NO to The Apostle Paul when he asked God to remove the thorn from his flesh, and then God added an INSTEAD, yes, INSTEAD my grace is sufficient for you.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
My friend, Kim McLean, is a singer, songwriter and pastor in Tennessee. This song of hers really touches me deeply. I pray the lyrics will also encourage you.
CHORUS:
Sanctify me.
Make me worthy.
A testimony of your grace.
I am persuaded that you love me,
And I was born to give you praise.
Make my heart your holy place.
VERSE 1:
I come to you
And I believe
you’ll hear my simple prayer.
I bring my heart,
My broken heart
Please put forgiveness there.
VERSE 2:
If I forget
that I am yours
because of fear or pride
Shine your light
Your perfect light
Never let me hide
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
Today, at a funeral, this hymn chorus from the hymnal spoke deeply to me:
“He taught me how to watch and pray, and live rejoicing EVERY DAY; oh happy day, oh happy day, when Jesus washed all my sins away.”
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Someone asked how they could pray for me? This was part of my answer:
“Pray that i will intimately know God’s heart and that i will wholeheartedly live surrendered totally to every detail He desires.”
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“There are substance addictions and behavioral addictions. Some are easier to hide than others, nevertheless, a stronghold is a stronghold and all addictions are demonic. Addictions breaks the heart of God. Only Jesus can deliver us from addictions.” Pastor Jenee Noriega, remix
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Evangelism is about the obvious — acknowledging Jesus is already at work in the lives of the lost souls of all people He died to deliver from sin. Acknowledging Jesus is already present is our part in reaching others before it’s too late.” -kww
“Fully Surremdered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Texted this to a friend in Christ, today:
i want no one to say to me on that final day, “Kerry, in life, i knew you but you didn’t once tell me that you knew Jesus and that i needed to know Him! Now Hell will be my home forevermore.” -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“But the LORD’s faithful love is from forever ago to forever from now for those who honor Him. And God’s righteousness reaches to the grandchildren…” Psalms 103:17 CEB
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
This morning during Sunday morning worship at The Nazarene Leadership Gathering in Kansas City -- as the worship team led us in "The Goodness of God" -- the Holy Spirit took me through a tender rewind of His goodness throughout my life. Yes, from my childhood, to my teens years, through my young adult days, to the years of raising children and pastoring, and right up to the present, sacred scenes of God’s presence showing up -- across all of my days and nights -- played very realistically in my mind. It was exactly what i needed. Twice during this worshipful, vision experience, i wiped away tears of gratitude from my eyes with my handkerchief.
My God, You’ve been so so kind to me. Lead me onward. i know You will. Your Name is Faithful. My name is grateful.
Also, previous to "The Goodness of God" song of worship personal experience, these words inspired my soul: "Thou in me dwelling and i in Thee one." (Lyrics from "Be Thou My Vision.")
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave His charge: “God authorized and commanded Me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.” Jesus, Matthew 28:18-20 MSG
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Your Soul's Comfort is Only Found in Me (I Care.) — God
In my own life-experience, I am learning there are two quite simple, yet very profound words, that are truly comforting for me to personally speak to others and truly comforting for me to personally hear from others. These two words are... "I Care."
There are other word combinations that bring comfort to me. Here are two samples, both song titles:
1. Just Remember Jesus Cares.
2. Life is Hard, But God is Good.
It’s good for us to consider the great care our Almighty, Personal God has concerning us? In fact, I believe He carries us continuously on the wings of His care.
I brought you to Myself and carried you on eagle’s wings. -- Exodus 19:4b (NLT)
After reading this soul-comforting message of the Lord recorded in Exodus 19:4, I spontaneously wrote these words, seemingly straight from my Father God's heart to mine:
Why do you weep when the closest of kin
or the dearest of friend leaves you?
Do you ask why?
You don't know why their kinship
or friendship can never satisfy?
When kin or friend deserts you,
it's meant to help you see,
That the deepest comfort of your soul...
Is only found in Me.
(And… one more care-full song title:
No one ever cared for me (and you) like Jesus!)
Let us always be found “casting all our cares upon Him, for He cares for us.” How comforting! Indeed!
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Jesus, before You were crucified, our sins were swallowing us alive. Yet, now because of Your salvation we enjoy eternal celebration.” Amen.” -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Take heart. If we belong exclusively to God, we are the beloved ambassadors of Christ in this world and all of Heaven is waiting to have our backs, to fight for us, to meet our needs, and to come alongside us that the King of Kings might be glorified in and through us." -kww
See 2 Corinthians 5:20.
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“I will not leave you comfortless [as orphans]. I will come to you." Jesus' Promise recorded in John 14:18
"Lord, i am not a spiritual orphan in this world. You have not abandoned me or left me alone to figure things out on my own. i am befriended, indwelt, empowered and comforted by Your Blessed Holy Spirit. Surely, i am very grateful, because You are truly Faithful. Amen." -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
A contemporary Greek rendering or interpretation of Hebrews 12:1 — “Lay aside the sin and the environment that so comfortably envelops you…” In other words, “Turn away from sinning and remove yourself from a spiritually unprofitable situation.”
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Lord, i desire Your touch, Your truth, and Your timing in my life. i desperately need Your presence, Your purity, and Your plan as my inheritance.” -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
(1 Samuel 17:37), David relied on God’s past faithfulness as his source of strength. Armed with a sling, five smooth stones, and unshakable trust, David defeated Goliath with a single shot, securing victory for Israel.
David’s courage wasn’t the absence of fear; it was his determination to act despite it, trusting in God’s power rather than human limitations. His triumph reminds us that challenges, no matter how daunting, are opportunities for God to reveal His strength in our lives. -Brian Dickinson
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
This is a message i preached on Sunday, January 26, 2025 at Crossroads Church of the Nazarene in Milton, Pennsylvania, USA.
“Asking for Insight” (And Intimacy.) Ephesians 1:17.)
https://www.youtube.com/live/6dE6QjD9lEE?si=TnIqfNKcengzP2aQ
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Dearest Lord Jesus, i do not want to see my life as succeeding or as failing, but as pleasing in your sight. Amen.” -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
This prayer from a devotional guide became my own:
"Lord, i ask you to give me the insight and wisdom i need for this moment in my life. There is so much I need to know, but i am unable to figure it all out by myself. Today, i ask that the Holy Spirit would take away the veil that has obscured my view. i ask that my eyes be opened to see exactly what i need to know. i ask you to give me a real revelation about my life, my situation, and the truth i need to know right now. i pray this in Jesus name. Amen."
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
Pastor Kerry Willis
“Lord, help me to focus on the power of Your Resurrection that lives in me! Amen.” -kww
“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors and gain an overwhelming victory through Him who loved us [so much that He died for us].” Romans 8:37 AMP
“Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 AMP
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
As my wife and i were praying together tonight, it seems the Precious Holy Spirit led me in this prayer:
“Hear us, Jesus. Help us, Jesus. Heal us, Jesus. Amen.” -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
i awoke this morning with this inspiring prayer strong on my mind…
“Dearest Almighty Abba Father, remind me that all of Your Promises are Perfect in the Person of The Prince of Peace, Your Beloved Son, my Savior and Lord, Jesus of Nazareth. Let Your Blessed Spirit of Truth totally possess my life, making Your Desires happen in me. Amen.”
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
My Dad often said, “Jesus is not a disappointment.” Thinking this verse may have inspired his saying:
“…those who hope in Me will not be disappointed.” Isaiah 49:23 b NIV
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
"Lord, i am needy.
You are the Need Meeter.
i open my HEART anew to You.
Refill me with Your strong, sweet Spirit. Amen."
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
kerry
"Blessed Holy Spirit, search me, know me, cleanse me. Let the mind of Christ be the undeniable purifying stance of all my thinking at all times and in all things. Amen." -kww #purityiswhatilongfor
https://youtu.be/d5gAdAwriCI?si=rxZHMRLWBQfMIl3A
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
kerry
“Lord, keep me surrendered and sensitive to Your Precious Spirit of Truth. Cause me to pick up on every nudge given within my heart, mind, soul, and strength. Help me to live out the theme Deo Volente — whatever You desire. Amen.” -kww
"Let Your will be done rather than mine." Mark 14:36b [GW]
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
kerry
Today, i called my Mom, Lady Melba, and she beautifully quoted words from this old hymn written by Haldor Lillenas:
1. There’s a sacred and hallowed retreat,
Where my soul finds a fellowship sweet,
Where the Lord of my life I may meet,
In the garden of my heart.
Refrain
In the cool of the day He walks with me,
In the rose bordered way He talks with me;
In love’s holy union,
And sacred communion,
In the garden of my heart.
2. There is naught can disturb or molest,
There my spirit finds comfort and rest,
And my soul is no longer distressed
In the garden of my heart. [Refrain]
3. Shut away from earth’s strife and its din,
And protected from soul staining sin,
For my Savior is dwelling within,
In the garden of my heart. [Refrain]
4. There the dove of sweet peace always sings,
And my faith ever trustingly clings;
And the chime of sweet happiness rings
In the garden of my heart. [Refrain]
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
kerry
Trusting God's promise means rest.
When we trust God, we don't have to strive to protect and guard ourselves.
We have the best Protector and Guard in God. We can rest in Him, and when we do, it shows we are really trusting in His promise.
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
kerry
"We need time alone with Jesus. We can’t pour from an empty cup." Grayson Willis #HopeTalks #Podcast
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
kerry
This gospel song really ministered to me today…
https://youtu.be/-QzmHxrAFMw?si=ZcP4C6SvFb3Dc-Wu
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
kerry
This morning in my quiet time, i sensed the Lord’s desire for my prayer life is “to be found praying every possible moment.” i plan to live up to that desire. i want my life to become a never-ending, intimate, prayer time with my Lord. So help me Blessed Holy Spirit. Amen.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
Pastor Kerry Willis
Today, i received a pastor friend’s blessing from Madgascar, Africa:
"I’m praying God’s best for you in 2025! And that in the darkest of days you’ll see His light shining through, feel His arms around you and know His power is enabling your strength to make it through. He’s a good Father! We can trust Him fully!" -M
"Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!"
kerry
The goodness of God gets us past that past we couldn’t seem to get past. His grace really is amazing. For Father God so loved us that He gave His Son to get us past the past that left us all alone to a present where His Presence never leaves us and truly sets us free! True! -kww
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
kerry
Counsel to myself as the New Year begins:
“Remember God’s faithfulness in the past, in the present!” -kww
So i pray: “Holy Spirit, help me to remember God’s faithfulness yesterday… TODAY and day by day!” Amen.
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
-kww
As 2024 gave way to 2025, this sacred song played tenderly in my mind…
https://youtu.be/Kr4TbK2D0XI?si=bjWpqQt3nMOuiTLD
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
-kww
“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6 NLT
“Fully Surrendered to God’s Agenda!”
-kww
