You Are Not Alone
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5, ESV)
Mini Devotional
A mini message to take with you this week to help you in your devotion to God.
You Are Not Alone
Devotional by: Kurt Montooth
Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and many Christians may find themselves battling with despair and thoughts of suicide. A Christian is not, “less than,” because they can struggle with suicidal thoughts. No Christian is a failure or unlovable before God because of thoughts that come from hurt and overwhelm. Some of God’s greatest servants seemed to struggle with some level of suicidal ideation. Including Elijah (1 Kings 19:4) and the Apostle Paul (Philippians 1:23). These are not the only two listed in scripture, but they are some of the giants of faith. I think most servants of the Lord likely felt this way as they went through the trials they faced. In such moments of darkness, turning to the God through the scripture can provide solace, guidance, and a renewed sense of hope. Here are five important truths to meditate on when you feel like death is better than life.
God's Love is Unconditional
The cornerstone of the Gospel is God's unwavering love for humanity. In John 3:16, we are reminded, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." This verse reaffirms the message that God's love is unconditional and boundless, regardless of our circumstances or struggles. When you are grappling with thoughts of suicide, remember that God's love for you remains steadfast, offering comfort and hope in your darkest moments.
God is working for you.
We know from the scripture not only is God loving, but he is working on our behalf at this very present moment. Romans 8:28 tells us, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Suicide, depression, and anxiety can come with an overriding message that life is overwhelming and never going to get better. The truth is that God is working on our behalf. Elijah’s struggle with suicide in 1 Kings 19 demonstrates this clearly. God shows up and works for Elijah when he cries out to him; God feeds, provides rest, and comforts a drained and weeping prophet, this gives him the strength to keep living.
Your life has purpose and meaning.
The New Testament teaches clearly that you are made in the image of God with importance, purpose, and meaning. Ephesians 2:10 reads, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." This verse reminds us that each of us has a unique purpose in God's grand plan. Even in the midst of suffering and despair, there is a purpose for your life. Seek guidance and clarity through prayer and reflection to discover your role in God's divine design. You are important and valuable. God has a plan and purpose for your life. This is the truth when suicidal thoughts tells you the lie that your life is meaninglessness and unimportant.
You can overcome suffering.
If you are considering suicide, I want you to know that you can overcome the pain that is leading you to believe you would be better off dead. A major theme of Christianity is that you can overcome suffering. In Romans 8:18, we are told, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." The New Testament teaches that suffering is a part of life, but it is not the end of the story. God's promise of redemption and eternal life gives Christians the strength to endure and persevere through life's trials.
There is help and support.
You can seek help and support from fellow Christians and spiritual leaders. At Holly Hill you have access to mazing resources like a counselor on staff and multiple spiritually mature Christians and other mental health professionals. Even if you would not like to do your counseling with me, Kelly, or Kelsey all three of us know many other incredible therapists. Galatians 6:2 says, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Reach out to your church community, ministers, and other mature disciples. It can be scary to take suicidal thoughts to a other or sister in Christ, but that is function and design of the church. They can provide the love, guidance, and support you need during difficult times. We also live in a time of amazing support and resources like the suicide prevention hotline. Please dial 988 if you feel suicidal and would like to speak to someone immediately.
There is hope.
Perhaps the most powerful message the New Testament conveys is one of hope. In Romans 15:13, it says, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Even in moments of despair, God offers hope for a brighter future. Hold onto this hope as a lifeline during your darkest hours, knowing that God's love and grace are ever-present. You can, by God’s power overcome the dark thoughts and feelings that are holding you captive.
Final Thoughts
To Christians who may be feeling suicidal, the New Testament offers a message of love, purpose, and hope. Remember that you are not alone in your struggles, and there is a loving God who cares deeply for you. Seek support from your faith community, meditate on the scriptures, and pray for strength and guidance. The New Testament is a source of comfort and inspiration, guiding you toward healing and renewal, and reminding you that there is always hope, even in the darkest of times.
Missions
These are the challenges that the congregation is actively working on this month.
Our Missions For October
Equip — Invite a church member or family to do something with you outside of the worship assembly.
Teach — Share something with another church member that stood out to you from a recent Bible study.
Serve — Ask a deacon, ministry leader, elder, or minister how you can help, and serve in the way they direct you.
News
This section is for any special announcements that are not upcoming events or prayer requests.
Letter of Appreciation
Dear Holly Hill Family,
We are so appreciative of all the new volunteers that are donating their time to our work here at Holly Hill. The Welcome Desk, Tech Team, and Children’s Bible Class ministries are all essential to us fulfilling our purpose - share Jesus with world. Thank you to all the workers in these and all the other ministries at our congregation. Your contribution makes a difference!
Prayer Request for Hope & Equip
During our Mission Moment yesterday, Tom Owens discussed all the work being done by the folks at Hope & Equip. Please be praying for Hope & Equip and for God's guidance regarding a possible gift toward their mission. There will be a fundraiser on October 26th, in Franklin, Tennessee. All donations are tax deductible. Ways to contribute to the Kingdom work being done:
Go to the website (hopeandequip.org) and click the donate button.
Write a check to Hope & Equip and give it to Robert or mail it to: Robert Roach, 986 Inverness Road, Frankfort, KY 40601
Give Robert cash.
Thank you!
Regarding Church Announcements
Just a friendly reminder to everyone regarding church announcements: If you wish to make an announcement or have a prayer request, please contact Matthew Woodyard via email (office@hollyhillcoc.org). Announcements will be included in our daily email (5pm), our weekly Vine (Thursdays at 10am), and posted to Holly Hill’s Facebook page. If you wish something to be shared, please submit your announcement by 4pm. Emergency prayer requests can be submitted at any time and will be shared as soon as possible. If you’re not receiving our daily emails, weekly Vine Newsletter, or text messages, or if you have any questions about this process, don't hesitate to contact Matthew.
Church Records
Bible Class Attendance (10/1) — 68
Worship Attendance (10/1) — 111
Contribution (10/1) — $10,373.61
Prayers
Here are some individuals that especially need our prayers this week. Please keep them in mind every time you pray.
New Prayer Requests:
The Trent & Robertson Family
Jerry Mayes
Roger Caudill
Brenda Perkins
Ongoing Prayers For: Phillip Bartley, Bob Windsor, Michael Morris, Family of Jesse Lee Penn, Mark McPherson, Charlotte & Tanner Henderson (Elijah’s sister and brother-in-law, who lost a child), Fern Perkins (Matthew Woodyard’s aunt), Steve Small, Larry & Renita Clarke, Wilton Hudson, family of Austin Case, family of Claude Tackett, Scarlet Stumbo (aunt of Val Clark), James Robert (Val Clark’s uncle), Janis Friend, Pam Smith (foster parent of Robin Mayes niece, Lexi), Horn family, Butch Elliott (friend of Robin Mayes), Rhoda Jones, Betty Blanton, Bill & Mary Jo Marion (friends of Robin Mayes), Helen Hall, Penny Harland (Katie Bell’s mother), Alyssa Deaton, Pete & Jessie Tropoulos, Codie Rich (Michael & Kimberly Mundt’s son-in-law), Emma Collins, Rusty Bell (friend of Robin Mayes), Tanya Phipps (Brenda Stone’s niece), Gail Keith (Michele Blanton’s mother), Nikki Fenney (Johnny & Julie Widener’s niece), Bertha Young’s Family, Dorothy Trent, Polly Deaton, Rita Tackett (Alyson Woodyard’s aunt), Sandra Haden (Tiffany Quarles’ mother), Valentine family, David Fair (prayers for his marriage & family situation), Phil & Suzanne Wilkins, prayers for Mission Control Challenges, Glenda Mitchum.
* Please submit your prayer requests for inclusion at office@hollyhillcoc.org
Upcoming Events
Here are some events that are coming up that you need to make space on your calendar for.
Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast — Saturday Morning, October 7th at 8am
Join us on the 1st Saturday morning of each month, for the Men’s Bible Study & Breakfast. We will meet downstairs in the Fellowship Hall and be studying from the book of James. See you there!
Study Groups — Sunday Night, October 8th at 6pm
On this Sunday night, the men will meet in the auditorium for a group session, and the women will meet in room 12 downstairs. Some of the men will teach the children in a separate classroom downstairs in order to allow the mothers to participate in the women's study group. All are welcome! Please bring your family!
Fall Festival — Saturday Night, October 14th from 4-8pm (UPDATED)
Fall Festival at the Bowman Farm on October 14 from 4-8pm.
4pm - Games & Crafts
5pm - Hayride (Due to the New Moon (no moon) the Hayride will be earlier than normal. We want to make sure we’re all back in the daylight.)
6pm - Eat (We’ll eat as soon as the Hayride concludes)
Bring your favorite side dish or dessert to share and your chairs. This is always a fun event to enjoy the season and each other's company, so make plans to attend and invite your friends! Contact Ray or Stephenia Bowman with any questions.
Singing Service — Sunday Night, October 15th at 6pm
We will meet downstairs in the fellowship area to sing together in worship to God, and to encourage each other. The chairs will be arranged in a circle to intentionally draw attention to the fact that we are a family and are singing to build each other up. For many, these singing events are very moving and powerful. We want you to be there!
Wedding of April Blanton & Matthew Franklin — Saturday Night, October 21st at 5pm
Wedding Invitation to April Blanton and Matthew Franklin’s wedding ceremony at Holly Hill Church of Christ, Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 5:00pm.
The reception will be located at: Chandler Ridge, 9771 Vigo Road, Bagdad, Ky. 40003.
Gift Registry: See invitation on bulletin board.
Contact Michele Blanton (502-321-0760) for any questions.
Small Groups — Sunday Night, October 22nd at 6pm
In order to build relationships with our church family, instead of meeting at the church building, we will meet in each other's homes for a short devotional, guided discussion, prayer, and fellowship. More information on locations will be coming soon.
Hope & Equip Fundraiser — Thursday, October 26th in Franklin, TN
Please be praying for Hope & Equip and for God's guidance regarding a possible gift toward their mission. There will be a fundraiser on October 26th, in Franklin, Tennessee. For more info regarding this event, contact Robert Roach.
How You Can Serve
There are a lot of ways you can get involved and do the work of God in our community!
For more information or for help signing up for any of these ministries, please call the church office at: (502) 227-7796.
Limited-Time Opportunities:
Westridge Elementary Backpack Program
The backpack program with Westridge Elementary School starts for Holly Hill in October. Please see below for items needed to pack snack bags for the WES students. If you have any questions please see Carly Gill. Listed below are items that you can donate for the backpack program:
Ramen Noodle Packages
Nutri Grain Bars
Easy Mac
Chef Boyardee Ravioli
Vienna Sausages
Granola Bars
Fruit Cups
Fruit Snacks
Individual Applesauce Cups
Oatmeal Packets
Individual Cookie Packs
Beanie Weenies
Canned Tuna
Canned Soups
Cheese and Cracker Individual Packs
Pudding Cups
Individual Cereal
Mission Control Challenges
We have 3 new challenges for the month of October that we need your help on. Please see the section above entitled “Missions” for more information.
Long-Term Opportunities:
Mission Launch Team
We are needing individuals to sign up for the Mission Launch Team. People on this team commit to working on the Mission Control challenges each month, and they also commit to encouraging at least one other person to work on the missions as well. We need you to sign up for this ministry so we can grow the Mission Control program organically from person to person. Sign up for the Mission Launch Team at the Mission Control Center in the lobby.
Tech Team Support — The Holly Hill Tech Team needs help. We would love to have a few more people trained and available to set up the livestreams and audio equipment. It’s a fairly simple task and you’ll be well trained before being thrown into the seat alone. If you’re interested, see Nick, David, or Brad.
Card Ministry — Every Sunday there are cards spread out on a table in the lobby that will be sent out to various church members and guests who need encouragement. You can help serve and encourage by making sure to sign these cards each week. If you know of someone the church should send a card, please give the name(s) and address to Joyce Best. We have “get-well” cards, “thinking of you” cards, “praying for you” cards, and sympathy cards. You can also text the information to (502) 593-5865.
Casey Blessing Box — The Casey’s are collecting items to give away to those in need in their Blessing Box. Currently, they are accepting donations of: Can goods of fruit and vegetables. Crackers, or cereal.
Shriners Children’s Hospital — Donna White is collecting soda can tabs to donate to the children’s hospital. Please leave your donations in the lobby.
Children’s Bible Class Teachers/Helpers — If you’d be willing to teach, sub, or help, please see Matthew Woodyard. We have a wonderful opportunity to teach God’s Word to our children. Let’s make sure they get our very best! Thank you!
Holly Hill Church of Christ
1020 Holly Hill Drive
Frankfort, KY 40601
Web: www.hollyhillcoc.org
Phone: (502) 227-7796
Email: office@hollyhillcoc.org
Service Times:
Sunday Bible Class: 10am
Sunday Morning Worship, 11am
Sunday Evening Worship, 6pm
Wednesday Evening Bible class: 6:30pm