Pastor’s Pen
The life of Paul was riddled with ups and downs. The last chapters of the book of Acts records the amazing account of sailing to Rome. He was heading to Rome for prison then shipwrecked. If it could go wrong, it did go wrong. Yet Paul remained steadfast in his trusting and following the Lord. When shipwrecked, Paul was bitten by a venomous viper and all assumed his death would soon occur. The people of the island said within themselves that he must deserve it. Winds blow tumultuously in our lives at times and we may even be attacked by vipers within our ranks, but this does not dismiss our duty and call from the Lord. Continue faithful as Paul and allow God to work out His plan in your life with your trust!
Pastor’s Pen
In my recent reading, I found a statement that has been constantly on my mind. Oswald Chambers made this statement. “If your faith is in experiences, anything that happens is likely to upset that faith.” All too often we hear of men and women of the church falling aside or backsliding because their faith was tested. When an instance that does not match their feelings should happen occurs, their faith is shaken. Faith must be tested and will be affirmed by the trials of life. Many go by their feelings and not faith at all. It is faith in God and His promise of eternal salvation that we base our trust in Him. When we base our faith on the reality of God’s promises, we will stand strong in our faith in Him! Winds blow and storms pass by, but God is the same. Have faith in Him!!
Pastor’s Pen
We are approaching the close of the year. The last month of the year is always filled with family functions and friends gathering to celebrate the Christmas season. With all the hustle and bustle of the month, the new year will seem but a few shorts days. During this busy time, remind those you are in contact with the true reason for the season. It is more than a party, presents and packages! It is the celebration of the King coming to defeat the sting of death, declare victory over the grave and redeem Himself a people! Praise the Lord for the birth of the Savior, Messiah and King! Let our voices praise Him for His goodness, mercy and love for mankind!
Pastor’s Pen
This coming Thursday, all of America will celebrate the day known as Thanksgiving Day. Many families will gather around a table spread with an abundance of delicacies from carved turkeys to pecan pie. We recall the pilgrims as they celebrated their first successful harvest joined with the native Indians. William Bradbury accounts an abundance of wild turkey to be eaten and contributed venison to be eaten along with garden vegetables. This time of celebration is wonderful, but let us not forget to Whom we must truly be thankful. We are blessed beyond compare as God has blessed us with many blessings. He has given us the greatest sacrifice, His Son, for our pardon from the penalty of sin! Thank God for His blessings on you!
Pastor’s Pen
Identity theft is rampant today. The ramifications and long term effects can be detrimental to the one that has had their identity stolen. With the digital age we are living, it is relatively easy to become someone other than yourself. This does not have to be a criminal act. Many people give the appearance of happiness, wealth and perfection in a profile but the truth is the opposite. What do you find your identity in? Is it a career, wealth, family, the appearance of happiness? As Christians, we find our identity is Jesus Christ. We place Christ on display. Strive to make Him seen through ourselves! Our identity before God is the righteousness of Jesus. Why not show that to the world and have Him seen in all we do?