Chandler F.U.M.C.
by Linda G. Keeling

It is better to be patient than powerful; it is better to have self-control than to conquer a city. -Proverbs 16:32

The Bible praises patience as a gift of the spirit (Galatians 5:22). But like many gifts, if not put in practice is of little value. How often in this world have we seen terrible consequences result from the lack of patience. One has to wonder if impatience is most often the result of car accidents, suicides, divorces or abuse. With lack of patience we become irritated and angry. The act of losing one's patience should be considered as one of extreme selfishness. One is concerned only with themselves and is intolerant of others. In the Bible, patience is persevering towards a goal, enduring trials, or expectantly waiting for a promise to be fulfilled. To develop patience, consider the following passages:

1. God's power develops patience (Col. 1:1)

2. Trusting God's goodness develops patience (Romans 6:26)

3. Allowing trials to purify character develops patience (James 1:3-4)

4. Resting in God's timing develops patience (Psalms 37:7-9)

5. Waiting for Christ's return develops patience (James 5:7-8)

Easter Sunday was celebrated with the beautiful Bell Choir, and the trumpets, horns, and trombones of Jake Brooks, Clay Maddox, Ryan Reid, Marla Pollard, Kate Griffin, Preston Reid, and Ruben Watson. You, each of you enriched our worship service. Thank you.

Bill Pollard was soloist for the anthem "End of the Beginning " with the Chancel and Youth Choir joining in on the chorus. I wish I had appropriate adjectives to describe how truly wonderful the song was sung by Bill and the Choir; it really made our spirits soar.

A Support Group for Breast Cancer is being formed by Bettye Davis, a survivor. Please call Bettye at 903-849- 0470. Bettye is one of these wonderful human beings that finds joy in all things and strengthens those around her. She is living proof how laughter can be the best of medicines, so come join her in her desire to help.

"And our hearts will turn to singing, and our souls with joy be ringing, as we sigh and dream and pray." Midst the Roses, a poem by Audrey McDaniel

Wednesday, April 11 at 10am the Triple LLL (Life, Love and Laughter) will meet in the Fellowship Hall for games, and a potluck lunch. Please bring a friend; this is a welcome all activity. The more company the merrier the crowd.

The Quilting Club is busy as bees. There are from 12 to 15 ladies attending the sessions each afternoon, the 4th Tuesday of each month. Call Sue Hogan at 903-849-4193 for additional information.

The youth class, "Jesus Kids" offered each Wednesday from 6:30 till 8 p.m. is going strong. The coordinator is Debbie Taylor for this month. The class consists of twenty kindergarten through 5th graders.

Remember: KCB Clean-Up Day is this Saturday. Also, God's Open Hands needs egg cartons.

Happy Anniversary to Larry and Bettye Davis. "This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you." -John 15:12

Happy Birthday to Sue Hogan, Pam Patterson, Edith Billie Pollard, Nancy Martin, Daniel Sain, Rita Noble, Kristina Grace, and Miles Spencer. "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." -Philippians 4:7

Thought of the Week: "You need to keep on patiently doing God's will if you want Him to do for you all that He has promised." -Hebrews 10:36. For "the world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever." -I John 2:17