Understanding God’s plan can be challenging. If we could fully comprehend the Creator, that would mean we assume His role – which we cannot. Isaiah reminds us in 55:8 that God’s thoughts and ways are infinitely higher than ours. Miracles come in unforeseen ways. Therefore, we need not worry, fret, or strive to decipher everything. Place your trust in God and declare, “I don’t know how God will bring this to pass, but I believe He will.” Then, follow His guidance with obedience and prepare yourself for a miracle.

Recently, God has been reminding me in so many ways of the necessity of consistent and continual prayer.  Sadly I am guilty of allowing prayer to be a second, third or last resort!  John Calvin called prayer "the chief exercise of faith".  Faithfulness in prayer demonstrates a belief that on our own we are powerless but that God is able and willing.  The absence of prayer demonstrates a belief that we're just fine on our own.

Salvation isn’t merely an escape from judgment; it’s a launchpad into a life of purpose and freedom. Jesus didn’t save us to remain passive. He saved us to actively embrace the abundant life He has for us.

Not only does “pride come before a fall,” but if you think you’re invincible to something – a certain sin, pitfall, or situation – you’re truly not. We’re all human, and we all have the same problems. Thankfully, as we read in Romans 3:23-24, we also all have the same solutions.

Patience is not just a virtue; it is a powerful tool in decision-making. It allows us to respond thoughtfully, aligning our actions with our intentions and values. Instead of reacting in anger or frustration, we can take a moment to breathe and consider the best course of action that fosters understanding and love.

We love the unique way God has called and enabled this ministry to serve in the mountains we call home. Because of our distinctive mission field, we have the privilege of bringing the Gospel directly to people—right where they are—through the shared context and passion of both our church and our community. Shared experiences build relationships, and relationships are often the very means God uses to draw people to Himself and bring the gospel into their lives. We view community as “common unity”: the joys and passions our good Father has gifted us to share and celebrate together.

Resentment leads you to self-destructive choices, causing you to suffer far more than those you resent. It breeds misery and rarely brings about the resolution you seek. So why cling to resentment any longer? Let go today. Choose forgiveness, and embrace the freedom that comes with it. Release the burden of grudges and experience the peace that forgiveness can bring into your life.

Naturally, most humans are risk-averse. If bad weather blows up before a hike, I will most likely cancel my hike. If I heard that sketchy people were hanging around my destination, I’d most likely change my plans. Sometimes, God does guide us toward safety and protection. But this is where His wisdom comes in, because sometimes, He calls us to walk straight into the perceived danger.

When words fail, movement describes our hearts. Grief can weigh heavy or joy can overflow, making stillness impossible. Dancing or walking can transform into unspoken prayer. Our bodies convey our emotions, even when raw.

There's no denying it, you and I are blessed immensely.  From physical provisions like food, clothing, homes and transportation to a heavenly Father who loves us, gave his son for us and everything in between...we have so much to be thankful for.

There’s no need for complicated methods or extensive notes. Instead, learn some basics of understanding Scripture and start reading! The key is to let God's Word dwell in you richly. This approach is accessible to us all and has incredible potential for change. I challenge you to embark on this journey, to dwell in the Bible, and may you discover the treasures within His Word and experience its life-changing impact.

All our time, money, actual “talents,” and other resources belong to God. I need to ask myself, am I squandering these? Or am I investing them in a way that will grow glory to God and love for him around my family, community and the world? This will look different for each unique individual. However, I’d encourage us all to pray and ponder this about our own lives so we can be called, “good and faithful servant."

Healing begins when we bring our brokenness to God and cry out for His mercy. James 5:16 encourages us: “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” God yearns to forgive and make us whole again. Are there burdens you need to lay down? Consider writing a prayer, pouring out your heart to God, expressing your regrets and asking for His mercy.

Even in our afflictions God wants to satisfy us with his love.  In God’s love we can always find satisfaction, if we choose, because his love for us never fades away. He proved his unfailing love for us through Jesus who laid down his life so that we could take up ours and experience an everlasting satisfaction in Him.

Remember, the impact of your love and encouragement brings joy not only to you but also to God, as He sees His children flourishing. Let this joy inspire you to nurture those in your life, knowing that as they walk in truth, you share in their journey of faith…

In a similar way,  Jesus used gentleness. He knew the law inside and out - he came up with it - and had full power to execute it. But many times we see him restrain his power and instead enact forgiveness, like when He forgives an adulterous woman in John 8:1-11. The teachers of the law are ready to stone her. But Jesus says, "If anyone is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." Not surprisingly, they all disperse.

You and I were created for relationship. Created by a Loving Heavenly Father who desires a relationship with us and in whom all our desires are met…

As I sit and reflect, I am incredibly grateful for the way God continually provides for my family and for the community of believers we are a part of who (not perfectly but) faithfully demonstrate His generous love toward others. Thank You Lord!

Jesus promised that when we gather in His name, He is present with us. This is not just a comforting thought; it’s a powerful truth. Prayer in unity invites God’s presence, allowing us to witness the miraculous power of His love and grace…

Today, we use the phrase “stay in your own lane,” or “keep your eyes on your own paper,” to remind ourselves that life is not a competition. But in moments of frustration, do my eyes lift to God?