September 2026 Edition

God's Expectations

Written by J. Smith
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Autumn has officially arrived in Milton, Florida. At least, that is what the calendar reads even if the temperatures outside don't feel it. Much has happened as Olivet has transitioned to our new pastor, Dr. Jonathan Kaushal, and welcomed he and his family.
   Looking ahead to the end of Sept. and into Oct., preparations are underway.  Starting this Sunday, Sept. 27, Operation Christmas Child (shoeboxes) a ministry of Samaritan's Purse will begin. Boxes are waiting at the back of the sanctuary for members to pick up, fill up (with toys, soap, washcloths, t-shirts, etc.) and drop off with payment of $10 for shipping which can be a check written to Samaritan's Purse or by credit card online. Final drop off date will be Nov. 15th.
   Another item of importance for the church nationally is the need to be ready to vote - early voting begins in Santa Rosa County Oct. 19-31. 
   Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge...seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will forget thy children." Being believers, God has expectations of us. He expects us to know His ways/ His Word and apply it to life accordingly. He expects us to be involved in the workings or our society, to be aware and educated on the matters at hand. Why? Because that is how God is exalted, a society preserved and wickedness thwarted. 
    Proverbs 25:2 says, "It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the honour of kings is to search a matter out." Believers are expected as part of God's kingdom to search for the truth in all matters. So, when it comes to knowing who to vote for, it is important to do your homework. Know who the candidates are and what they are about. With websites, voter guides, and videos online, it is not hard to learn the good, bad, and, sometimes, ugly of candidates. Our values for whom we vote for should align with the Lord's values as best as can be done. (One voter guide site - FloridaFamilyAction.org)
   Finally, we are told to pray for our leaders as 1 Timothy 2:1-4 says, "Petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving be made for all peoples - for all kings and those in authority..." We are expected to make requests talking to God on behalf of and giving thanks for our leaders. Are we praying for our local, state and federal leaders? And when discouraged by watching choices they make at times - have we been praying? Remember, "With God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).

Business Meeting @ A Glance

No Old Business
No New Business
Being no other business, the meeting came to an end.

Announcements

Food Pantry - Oct, 24, 9-11 am
Church Council - Oct. 12 at 11:30am
Deacon Meeting - Oct. 13
Business Meeting - Oct 14 at 6 pm
Ladies Morning Out - Every 4th Tuesday at 10:30am
Crafting for Jesus - Every Tuesday (but the 4th one) at 10am
Men's Breakfast - Every Tuesday, 8am at McDonalds
Benevolence Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast - Oct 17, 8-10am
US Navy Birthday - Oct 13
First Responders Appreciation Day - Oct. 28
Feast of Tabernacles - Oct 4