Conviction and Help | Dec. 12th

 “When he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.”

     John 16:8

   “ You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.”

      Acts 1:8

   Beloved, the Holy Spirit has come to faithfully convict us of sin and to empower us to overcome temptation. This role of the Spirit stands in contrast to how we sometimes experience correction from others.

   Unfortunately, I am sure we have all experienced situations in which someone is quick to point out our faults or mistakes. Sometimes their assessment is true, but they offer no wisdom or guidance on how to change the situation. This can be discouraging and leave a person feeling defeated or hopeless.

   However, the Holy Spirit’s conviction in our lives is always faithful and true. When He stirs our hearts about our actions or words, we can trust His guidance, knowing He always leads us in truth.

  The Spirit of God never leaves us on our own. He not only shows us our need for Christ, but empowers us to live through Him. The Holy Spirit strengthens God’s people to overcome the spirit of this age and gives victory in our hearts.

  So if you have faltered, dear one, repent, but then also seek the help of God by His Spirit. The Holy Spirit has come so that you have the power to live for God, offering help where you need it most.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Fulfilled Promises | Dec. 11th

 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.”

   Jeremiah 33:14

  Beloved, we may not always understand God's timing, but He has never lied and always proves faithful.

  Perhaps you find yourself waiting for God’s answer, uncertain of why it has not come. Remain patient and prayerful, trusting that peace will come as you wait on Him. Sometimes, in the process, our hearts may need to change, leading to revised requests.

  God has promised to providentially work within our lives. We can trust that He is good and knows what is best. The Lord knows when and how He will answer us and what is best for our redemptive good. Rest in His faithfulness, for He will not fail—His promises will surely be fulfilled.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Greetings | Dec. 10th

 “Peace be to you. The friends greet you.”

   3 John 1:15

   Beloved, let us not take for granted the way in which we greet one another, especially in regard to the body of Christ.

   Each Sunday worship service includes time for us to greet one another. This moment is more than a casual hello, as one might offer on the street or to a coworker. At church, the body of Christ gathers in a sacred place to meet God together.

  So when we greet one another, it is part of worship, an opportunity to bless each other intentionally in God's name. We desire that our brothers and sisters in Christ receive from God what they need, and we encourage each other in faith. Many of the Epistles are filled with such salutations. These are not formalities but thoughtful desires for others. Expressed to the person and before God.

  Let us commit to greeting our friends in Christ with love, intentionally offering the peace of God in worship. Make it your purpose each week: use this moment in our service to actively bless, encourage, and invite God's presence as you greet one another. Let our greetings become acts of worship that strengthen our bonds in Christ.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight