October
Text Box: Pastor's Thoughts My first real thoughts for 2019 are based in a commitment to the passage found in 1 Cor.15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” God gives us all we need to be successful in our endeavors if we trust in His provisions and not our own strength. Having said that consider our assets. 1. A Body of Believers. We are connected by our faith in Christ. His grace has birthed us into God's family. It is wonderful to have companions to pray and praise God with us but more importantly to labor along beside us. Some help plant seeds of faith, others water the seed, while yet others help it to grow. The results have eternal significance. 2. A Message. The message is of Jesus Christ and His eternal kingdom. The message offers salvation from sin, a relationship with our Heavenly Father who will provide for our needs, victory over the grave and so much more! 3. A Method. “Ye shall be witnesses unto me” a tried and true method. The first century church had no buildings, programs, or for that matter organization. Believers' lives had been changed and they witnessed to others of what the Lord had done for them. The result the church grew and witnessing still causes the church to grow. 4. A Power. The Holy Spirit was abiding in their lives. That God given power would accomplish more than all the wealth and religious organization in the world. Holy Spirit power would truly change lives. The world looks on the less fortunate with disgust and sympathy. They toss in a coin to help them get by another day. But it does not offer them a way to get up and walk! God's Holy Spirit power continues to raise folks out of horrible circumstances, addictions, and lives ruined by sin. He is still transforming broken lives! 5. A Purpose. The early church had a purpose, not to make themselves look good but for others to experience the blessings of living the new life Christ's offers. That is a purpose in which I feel is worthy for us to commit to in 2019.