Author: Bryan Gibson

Weekly Bulletin
December 20, 2015

A Merry Heart
by Connie Adams
“A merry heart does good, like medicine; but a broken spirit dries the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). Some of the most pleasant people I have ever known have been seriously handicapped. Yet, rather than allow themselves to be broken in spirit by their adversities, they have learned to smile through the pain, maintain a sense of humor and can see the happier side of life. They possess merry hearts and these do good “like medicine.”
It is unpleasant to be in the company of those who are always lamenting their hardships, ailments or disappointments. While God does not intend for us to be giggling idiots, He has placed within us a sense of humor. This is for man’s own good, when properly exercised. A person with a constant downcast countenance does nothing to adorn the doctrine of Christ. Aren’t we all doleful creatures at times? A fretful, anxious, dejected outlook on life will ruin health, destroy the genuine joy that ought to come from living, and render one who is so possessed all but helpless in bringing the lost to Christ.
“No Greater Joy”
by Larry Ray Hafley
John said he had “no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). Paul had great joy and rejoiced in the steadfast faith of the Colossians (Colossians 2:5). This was typical of the attitude of the great apostle. “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy” (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).
What is our joy? What makes us happy or gives us peace of mind? Is it spiritual things? What discourages and depresses us in this world? Paul’s heart was greatly tortured over spiritual losses (2 Corinthians 2:4; 7:5). Are we more upset over the mundane affairs of this fleeting world than we are over disappointments with respect to things divine, things eternal? My answers to those questions reveal much about my character and whether it is carnal or spiritual. And you?
Well, then, one may inquire, “Is it wrong to enjoy present pleasures of this life? Is it a sin to be hurt and bowed down by the defeats of this world?” No! One is to rejoice with the wife of his youth (Proverbs 5:18). Godly men made “great lamentation,” that is, they deeply mourned the death of Stephen (Acts 8:2). Paul felt the sting and sorrow of events in this life (Philippians 2:25-30). So, it is not a sign of weakness or a lack of spirituality to joy in good times or to sorrow in bad ones.
However, the point is still a valid one; namely, that great men of God expressed that the things which brought them the greatest joy and the greatest sorrow involved spiritual matters. Perhaps, therefore, we would do well to measure our heart’s laughter and its tears upon a higher, heavenly, foundation. Let the joy of angels and tears of heaven be the measure of our soul’s contentment.
“Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalms 32:11).

Contact Information
	P.O. Box 680872 / Prattville, AL 36067
	(334) 365-5887 / (334) 868-0801
	prattmont@knology.net / prattmontchurchofchrist.org

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The Prattmont Church of Christ is just what the name suggests, a church that belongs to Christ. We are not a denomination; we are simply a group of Christians trying very hard to practice the teachings of our Head, Jesus Christ. The New Testament offers a complete pattern for what each local church should be like—its organization, its worship, its work, etc. We are committed to following that pattern. We cordially invite you to attend our services. We would also welcome any comments or questions about this bulletin.

TIMES OF SERVICES:
Sunday
Bible Study 9:00 A.M.
Worship 10:00 A.M.
Training Class 5:00 P.M.
Worship 6:00 P.M.
Wednesday:
Bible Study 7:00 P.M.