Week of February 21, 2025

“1Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 1:1-2, NKJV)

The Bible describes life as a race that requires endurance. There are times of joy and triumph and there are also times of struggle and suffering. Whatever the case, God calls us to endure.

I encourage you to stay the course, trusting that God is faithful. Always remember others before us have run the race all the way to the finish line. In fact, the scripture says we are surrounded by a Great Cloud of Witnesses. Men and women who remained faithful, despite trials.

Endurance means continuing even when we feel like giving up. It means choosing faith over fear, hope over despair, perseverance over quitting. The key to endurance is not in our own strength, but in our focus. Hebrews 12:2 tells us to keep our eyes on Jesus. When we fix our eyes on Jesus, our perspective changes. Instead of focusing on our problems, we focus on our Savior.

Maybe today, you feel like giving up. Prayers seem unanswered, your efforts seem unrecognized, burdens feel overwhelming. I want to remind you that God sees you. He is still with you. Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

Your endurance is not in vain. Keep pressing on. The race is not always easy, but the reward is eternal.

God Bless, Pastor Rick

God’s Great Grace

 Week of February 14, 2025

 “And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9(NKJV)

We often find ourselves in situations that make us feel inadequate.  The reason for these feelings can vary from the size of the situation or maybe the responsibility attached to it. Or it could be the possible consequences and how they will affect your life. It may even be that someone else has placed a heavy weight upon your shoulders.

When you find yourself in these types of circumstances, do not rely on your own abilities.  Jesus has made it very clear that we can do nothing without Him.  With Him, all things are possible.  It is in that truth, “with Him all things are possible” there lies the answer to all our fears and doubts.

Whatever you do in your life, first take it to God in prayer and lay all your expectations and fears before Him.  He tells us He is a friend; He invites you to seek His help in prayer.  By allowing Him to work through you, you will achieve the kind of success that would be unattainable in your strength.

God Bless, Pastor Rick

Where Shall We Go?

Week of February 7, 2025

“Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?”  But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”  John 6:67-68(NKJV)

Jesus’ words are filled with sadness, “Do you also want to go away?” some of Jesus’ followers were turning away.  His challenge to them earlier in John 6 was a hard saying in their own words.  Many of the people that followed Jesus was for the signs He did, not for the message He was proclaiming.

That is still true today.  We want the Lord to meet our needs but when it comes to obedience even when it is difficult, we are still tempted to turn away.  Peter wisely said, “Lord, to whom shall we go?”

Many appear to be with the Lord but their hearts have gone away.  It is possible to be an active church member but your heart is far from God because His challenges are too demanding.  I believe it is a good thing to ask from time to time, are we truly committed to Christ or is our faith more of a pretentious faith.  If so, today, this day, recommit with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength.

God Bless, Pastor Rick