Keeping Track | Jan. 12th

 “Bless the Lord. O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,”

   Psalm 103:2

   It is easy to forget some things, and there are other moments we would rather forget. However, for the benefit of our spirit and for the glory due to God, let us not forget all the ways in which He has blessed us.

  In the same way, beloved, let us take upon ourselves a daily discipline of recounting past and present blessings from God. Many of us keep track of our spending throughout the week and then assess where we are quarterly or at the end of the year. We count calories in order to stay healthy. Phones and watches can track our steps throughout the day. Our phones even keep a record of our time spent on them and give a wellness report at the end of each week.

  As those who follow the Lord and desire to honor Him and worship Him, let us make it a habit to intentionally recall and list God's blessings each day. Set aside a few moments today to write down specific ways God has blessed you. Thank Him for these blessings, and notice how this practice strengthens your faith, encourages trust, and brings Him honor. How has God blessed you today? Name them one by one.

In Christ alone.

Pastor Wight

Help Along the Way | Jan. 9th

“They will faint on the way.”

   Mark 8:3

  The Good Shepherd knows the journey is too great for His sheep. Never underestimate God’s awareness of our weakness, or His compassion for His flock.

  Christ laid down His life for the sheep because He knew how completely helpless and lost we were. This is why grace is amazing. Grace is God's gift of unearned favor and kindness toward us, given even though we could never deserve it. We did not deserve the grace of God, nor could we have earned it. We were dead in sin, separated from God, without hope in this world, and even now we would faint on the way unless it were for the mercy of God.

  Beloved, confess your weakness to God. Acknowledge your dependence upon the Shepherd, and He will hold you securely, guiding and sustaining you with His unfailing life and love.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

In Troubled Times | Jan. 8th

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me.”

   John 14:1

  Beloved, our hearts are not always carefree. At times, despair clouds our minds and sorrow breaks our spirits. Yet our security is not found within ourselves, but in the One we trust. It is not the strength of our faith that keeps us, but the faithfulness of Christ.

  Jesus simply calls us to believe in Him, to trust Him through doubts and fears. He is the One who holds us secure. We do not stand by our grip on Christ, but by grace that rescues. Our love and faith may waver, but God's lovingkindness and faithfulness are unfailing.

  Let us look to God in prayer today. Cast your concerns on the Lord. Believe in Him and in His promises found in scripture. Christ will never forsake you.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight