Keeping Watch | Oct 22nd

 “Keep a close watch on yourself and on teaching.”

  1 Timothy 4:16

  Beloved, Paul’s warning and exhortation to Timothy is a message that every believer should take to heart. While not every believer is called to teach the word of God, all are called to study Scripture. Sound theology and doctrine enable us to know God, understand His ways, and recognize our identity in Christ.

  The only way a believer can truly examine themselves is by allowing the Holy Spirit to guide them through the word of God. This requires intentionality on the part of the believer. If you profess to love the Lord, you will also love His word. Through Scripture, we come to know Him and learn how to live for Him. Following Christ is not possible apart from Scripture.

  Let us take this opportunity today to examine ourselves in light of God’s word as we prayerfully reflect on the Bible. Remain steadfast in sound doctrine.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Keep the Fire Going | Oct 21st

  “I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you…”

  2 Timothy 1:6

  Beloved, due to the prevalence of modern conveniences, many individuals lack firsthand experience that would illuminate Paul’s exhortation for Timothy to fan into flame God given gifts.

  If you have ever camped or tended a fire in a woodstove or fireplace, you understand the need to stir cooling coals back into a strong fire by adding wood. Autumn in Maine is beautiful, especially during duck hunting season, but the nights become extremely cold. During one hunt, we stayed in a cabin on a remote lake that lacked winterization, and our only heat source was an old potbelly stove. Throughout the night, we repeatedly returned to the stove to keep the fire going until dawn so we could stay warm.

  In a similar way, we must rekindle and develop the gifts which God has given us. We must do this for His honor and to build up the church. We can do this by prayer,  reading the Word, and walking in the Spirit. In that way we can burn for God.

  Let us remember that the Holy Spirit has equipped us for God’s service, and let us earnestly pray that our hearts may be fanned into flame.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Don't Leave Home Without It | Oct 20th

  “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!”

  Psalm 105:4

  Beloved, years ago American Express ran an advertisement: “Don’t leave home without it!” was the slogan. It was a catchy phrase that was repeated in many ways.

  The one we truly cannot do without is the Lord. Let us intentionally seek His presence each day. We should not attempt to face the day without relying on the Lord and His strength. If we feel weary or overwhelmed, it may be because we have not taken time to seek God. In this way, we have, in effect, left home without Him. Have you sought God’s strength, blessing, or guidance today?

  Do not attempt to navigate the day alone or make important decisions without the counsel of Scripture and the guidance of the Spirit. Emotions are temporary, intentions may falter, and human strength is limited. Only the Lord and His abiding presence provide true peace. Begin each day with Him and do not leave home without His strength.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight