07-19-2026

Jul 12

2 min read

Iron Sharpens Iron

One of the most famous and often quoted Proverbs of Solomon is found in

Proverb 27:17. “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of

his friend”. The key point among others is that influence is profound. Proverb

12:26 says, “The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the

wicked leads them astray”. Years ago in study, I believe the Lord showed me a

wisdom principle based on the power of influence. This adage I have used ever

since and it is never far from my mind and heart. It’s familiar to you because I

refer to it all the time, It goes like this; influence creates choices. Choices create

habits. Habits create character. And character determines destiny. Many years

has passed since the Holy Spirit dropped that nugget of wisdom into my heart,

but it’s never left. Influence is powerful, and as we heard this weekend, men and

everyone else for that matter need to be in the battle, in the game, fighting along

brothers and sisters of like precious faith for a cause greater than themselves.

Happy Sunday!

Scripture Verse for the week: Psalm 12:6; The words of the LORD are pure

words, like silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

*The FA family welcomes our guests. We are excited that you are here.

*Last Sunday’s attendance was 248. Invite someone this Sunday. It could very well change their

life forever.

*Keep up with all that’s happening by visiting our website at www.firstagashland.org

*Attention: Children are a vital part of the ministry here at First Assembly. See Pastor Mark

Smith to get involved.

*Attention: Find a small group that fits you. Join us for coffee, juice and doughnuts in the FACS

center beginning at 8:45am. Classes start at 9am, see Earl Wood for more information.

*Announcing: Our Missions Spotlight for the month of July is Forrest and Autumn Belson,

missionaries to Germany. Please take time to pray for them and all of our missionaries.

*Leadership Team Meeting is this Tuesday night at 6pm.

*Wednesday Night is Family Night at FA offering ministry for the whole family. Fellowship

supper begins at 5:30pm with ministry for all ages beginning at 6:30pm. See ya there!

*Announcing: We welcome Pastor Craig Rivers and the men from Brooks A/G this morning to

our celebration service.

*Announcing: Joy Fellowship Summer Outing is Monday night at 6pm at Monte Alban.

2026 Ministry Theme is “Change is coming!

First Assembly