The Need for a New Heart

AMY TURNER

In the book of Ezekiel, God promises to replace a heart of stone with a heart of flesh. This picture shows the need for deep change INSIDE every person.

In 1967, Dr. Christian Barnard carried out the first human heart transplant. At the time, it was considered an extraordinary step in medicine. Today such operations are more common, but they still remind us that some conditions cannot be treated with medicine, diet, or lifestyle alone. When the heart is too damaged, the only option is replacement.

The Bible explains that all people are born with hearts that are not spiritually healthy. At first, the signs may not be obvious, but with time the evidence shows. Human effort cannot cure this condition. Only God can provide the new heart that is needed for real life.

Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.

2 Corinthians 5:17

Standing Firm in the Face of Spiritual Opposition

FLOYD ROGERS

Choosing to follow Jesus Christ is a lifelong and eternal commitment. Once you belong to Him, there is no turning back. Believers face three constant enemies: the sinful nature, the temptations of the world, and the attacks of the devil. These challenges can leave some feeling worn down and ready to give up.

But giving up only worsens the struggle. Instead, Christians are called to stand firmly on the truth of God’s Word and hold on to their identity as His children. Through Christ’s presence within, they can resist despair and rely on God’s strength.

God’s care, love, and promises surround every believer. He has already provided the tools needed to endure spiritual battles. By trusting Him and holding their ground, Christians can walk forward with confidence, knowing they are never alone.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

Ephesians 6:10

Greater Vision celebrates 35 years of music

DAVID INGRAM

Thirty-five years ago today, 30 December 1990, Greater Vision stepped onto the platform for the very first time as a trio, presenting their inaugural concert in Grassy Creek, Kentucky. Although that historic morning was not recorded, it marked the beginning of a ministry that would go on to impact countless lives.

©1992 Greater Vision Music Ministries, Inc.. All rights reserved.

Based in Morristown, Tennessee, Greater Vision continues to travel with around 150 road performances each year. The group was founded by Gerald Wolfe, who serves as pianist and emcee. Multi-award-winning songwriter Rodney Griffin provides the lead vocal for the trio, while Chris Allman, also a prolific songwriter, sings tenor. The group’s newest member, Scott Mullins, sings baritone, adding depth ato Greater Vision’s unmistakable sound.

Greater Vision’s influence extends beyond the concert platform. For more than 30 years, they have appeared regularly on the InTouch television programme hosted by Dr Charles Stanley. They also appear on the Gaither Gospel Video Series and have become a central part of the beloved Gospel Music Hymn Sing videos and live events.

The group’s latest release, Your Story, features new songs written by group members Rodney Griffin and Chris Allman, along with contributions from other notable writers. Produced by Gerald Wolfe and Trey Ivey and distributed by Daywind Records, the project continues the group’s tradition of meaningful, message-driven music.

Listen for songs throughout the day by Greater Vision as they celebrate 35 years of Southern Gospel!

Sacred Harmony searches for new singer After pastor departure

JEFF TURNER

Sacred Harmony is looking for a new baritone or lead singer after Caleb Howard left the group to enter full-time ministry. Howard, from Eastern Kentucky, has taken a position as a pastor. The group is asking for prayers for Howard and his family and said they support his decision.

The announcement was made on the group’s Facebook page. The trio said Howard made an impact on their ministry and that they will miss him and his love for the Lord.

Provided to YouTube by Syntax Creative Breathe In, Breathe Out · Sacred Harmony It Ain’t Over Yet â„— 2021 Godsey Media

Sacred Harmony will continue to perform with fill-in singers as needed until they find Howard’s replacement.

The Tennessee-based trio was formed in 2000 and has received recognitions including the 2017 Sunrise Trio of the year, Top five nominee for Video of the Year and A Day of Recognition proclamation presented by Tennessee Governor bill Haslam in 2018. They have grown their ministry over the years. The trio focuses on salvation and their message through both song and their words as they travel across the country.

People who want to apply for the position can send two songs, a biography with a picture, and information about themselves to sacredharmony1@hotmail.com.

A call to pursue holiness in the new year

JEFF TURNER

When a new year begins, people take time off work to celebrate. They gather with loved ones for meals and write down goals that most will forget about later. For Christians wanting to focus their hearts on what matters most in the coming year, there is an important question to consider. What does God want for His people?

I believe God desires holiness for those who follow Him. He wants His people to grow in purity and become more like Christ. This is not just one priority among many. It is the central reason God gave believers the Holy Spirit.

Church leaders are given their role to feed and nurture God’s people toward this same goal. The apostle Paul wrote with deep emotion about his longing to see believers mature in their faith. He told one church he wanted to present them to Christ as a pure bride. He told another group that he felt like he was in labor pains, waiting for Christ to be fully formed in them. These were not casual wishes. They came from the core of his spiritual concern.

Shouldn’t every Christian pray for holiness in their own life and in the lives of other believers?