My grandmother always told me, "Brian, never talk about religion or politics, unless you want to fight." My grandma didn't have a doctorate or even a Master's degree, but she had amazing common sense. Her quote though she told me years ago definitely rings true today. Politics for some reason tends to bring out the worst in people. Jesus spoke over and over again about authority one of the most memorable moments came in Matthew 22:21 when Jesus told the crowd to, "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's." But one of the most clear cut examples of how we should respond to authority, the government, and in political situations is found in Romans 13.
1) No authority that which God has not established (Romans 13:1)
Let's face it God knows the future reality of this year's election, and next year, and the following election after that. I hope that truth brings some comfort to your heart. Because I know many of us seeing the news about polls, about controversial doctrine and ideas, and among many other things are getting quite worried. I've felt my blood pressure rise a little bit as I try to immerse myself in the world of politics. But, the reality God still and always sits on the throne.
I will say God does want us to support candidates who love the word of God, who are moral, upright, and desire America to be a place for all, and a candidate who will live out their faith while they serve in office. Christians should take a part but never be worried about politics.
2) Rebelling against authority is rebelling against God. (Romans 13:2)
This is a very tough saying in the New Testament. Because, there are quite a few authority figures we just don't like or don't agree with. But Paul is clear in this verse: respect them and listen to them anyway. I think that is a powerful message and one that is very much lost today, can we respect those we disagree with?
We live in a "Me-first/Selfie" culture. The sad reality is many in our society don't look to serve others' rather just have their own needs met. A me first person often only looks to respect authority when they agree with them. Paul reminds the Roman Christians who they are in vs. 2 as he tells them to respect the governments God has established. Christians need to trust God in both times they agree and times they don't.
3) Give to them what you owe. . . (Romans 13:7)
This is one of the most infamous verses in the New Testament telling the church and followers of Jesus to pay their taxes and give to the government what is owe them. In looking at this verse it fits nicely with the New Testament's overarching message among many to rid yourself of material things that hold you back from fully serving Jesus. The rich young ruler was told to sell all and come follow. We are told to store up treasure in Heaven. The list can go on and on.
Don't hold so tightly onto material things. If they are due the government such as your taxes give them willingly and know that God has something better in store. Politics though frustrating at times are in complete control of the God who sits on the throne. Politics can be a great witnessing time as a time when they bring out the best and not the worst in you.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
on Proverbs 11
God's word is something I hope that shapes and molds us all the time. My goal this Lent season is to encourage the church to fall in love with the word of God all over again! I think we have seasons in our life filled with zeal and other moments filled with apathy toward the word of God. But, our hope is that as we move toward Christian perfection our hope and desire would grow greater for the word of God.
Here's what Proverbs 11 has to say that is still relevant today.
Proverbs 11:4, "Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath. . ."
What a powerful reminder to keep perspective on our pursuit of earthly wealth, it won't last. Close to a thousand years before Jesus came on the scene, Solomon used his Godly wisdom to remind people of all generations that wealth is fleeting and it won't matter on the day on judgment. What Solomon is telling us is to focus our energy on something that more permanent than wealth, pursuing God with our whole heart and pursuing the fulfillment of God's will on this earth.
This is a very, very broad idea. I will admit that. But, as continue to love and fall in love with Jesus more, take it one step at a time. 1) Understand that your wealth is a gift from God. Know that it isn't fair someone is born into extreme poverty, while others are born into the middle class or even great riches. Be thankful for what you have, but don't be so attached that your world would be crushed if it was taken away. 2) Learn to be generous. We live in a broken world that needs shaken up by some radical acts of love, grace, and even forgiveness. Learn to make this a part of who you are. Be encouraging, be hospitable, be generous, and learn to hold your tongue. If you do this you'll be an extremely "wealthy" person.
2) Proverbs 11:17, "Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves."
When people discuss the church at the coffee house, gym, office, or anytime throughout the week. What are the things they say? What adjectives are typically used to describe the church? Well, I am a big believer in the church, so I am certain that not all adjectives used to describe the church are negative. But, one question I am interested in is how many churches or even Christians for that matter would be labeled as kind people? How many of us make other people better or even take time to listen to others?
I decided to make kindness my word for this year, and my goal has been learn to hold my tongue in trying situations, to be faithful in prayer that the Holy Spirit would guide me to adopt an attitude of kindness, and I've been intentional about showing undeserved kindness at least once a week. I will tell you it's a difficult process but very worthwhile. I challenge you with this question: do people think you are a kind follower of Jesus? Or is there room for you to improve? We'll talk about Proverbs 12 really soon.
Here's what Proverbs 11 has to say that is still relevant today.
Proverbs 11:4, "Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath. . ."
What a powerful reminder to keep perspective on our pursuit of earthly wealth, it won't last. Close to a thousand years before Jesus came on the scene, Solomon used his Godly wisdom to remind people of all generations that wealth is fleeting and it won't matter on the day on judgment. What Solomon is telling us is to focus our energy on something that more permanent than wealth, pursuing God with our whole heart and pursuing the fulfillment of God's will on this earth.
This is a very, very broad idea. I will admit that. But, as continue to love and fall in love with Jesus more, take it one step at a time. 1) Understand that your wealth is a gift from God. Know that it isn't fair someone is born into extreme poverty, while others are born into the middle class or even great riches. Be thankful for what you have, but don't be so attached that your world would be crushed if it was taken away. 2) Learn to be generous. We live in a broken world that needs shaken up by some radical acts of love, grace, and even forgiveness. Learn to make this a part of who you are. Be encouraging, be hospitable, be generous, and learn to hold your tongue. If you do this you'll be an extremely "wealthy" person.
2) Proverbs 11:17, "Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves."
When people discuss the church at the coffee house, gym, office, or anytime throughout the week. What are the things they say? What adjectives are typically used to describe the church? Well, I am a big believer in the church, so I am certain that not all adjectives used to describe the church are negative. But, one question I am interested in is how many churches or even Christians for that matter would be labeled as kind people? How many of us make other people better or even take time to listen to others?
I decided to make kindness my word for this year, and my goal has been learn to hold my tongue in trying situations, to be faithful in prayer that the Holy Spirit would guide me to adopt an attitude of kindness, and I've been intentional about showing undeserved kindness at least once a week. I will tell you it's a difficult process but very worthwhile. I challenge you with this question: do people think you are a kind follower of Jesus? Or is there room for you to improve? We'll talk about Proverbs 12 really soon.
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
on Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is a very unique day in the life of the church. Though it is not commanded or instituted by Jesus, it is still a very important day. Because this day allows us to look at our lives, look at the God moments, the moments filled with laughter and rejoice, but it also is time for us to be concerned. We should be concerned for the moments when we've been impatient, rude, judgmental, or prevented others from knowing Jesus. Allow Ash Wednesday to be the start of a new beginning, a reminder for you to live out your faith each and every day. Here are a few ideas to make Ash Wednesday and this season of Lent very effective.
1) Pick a passage of scripture and read over it several times.
One of the problems in our fast paced society is we see a lot of information and facts but we don't really absorb them. Now, I will say some people are gifted and can learn a lot just by glancing at a book or article or so on. For most of us that is not the case. We need to see and hear things, many times. I encourage pick out a book (now you won't make it through Psalms), or two of the Bible and read over them several times. Pay attention to details, insert your own name in the place of pronouns, pray each night that the spirit would illumine your mind to something new, and be amazed at what you learn.
I encourage you to read over many different books. Two of my favorite are 2 Corinthians or Philippians.
2) Pray really big prayers.
I'm sure if God had a nickel for every person who prayed, "Bless me." He would have A LOT of money! But, aren't we selling God short by praying such small prayers? Isn't the God of the universe capable of big, sweeping life change? I encourage start praying that racism would be eliminated in this generation. Start praying that the church would be so moved that they would seek to eliminate world hunger or water-borne disease. Ask God for healing for the victims of domestic or sexual violence. Don't sell God short. Pray big, and be amazed but patient at the opportunities that God brings into your family's life.
3) Try something brand new.
How many of us always play it safe? I do, often, and I will admit I do feel really guilty about that. This Lenten season try something brand new. Volunteer for a ministry at church. Start doing devotions together as a family. Begin to increase your monthly giving to your church or ministry of choice. Sponsor a child who lives in a poor country. Volunteer your time at an after school club. Step up to clean up at church after a big function. I think you get my point. The list of new opportunities is endless. It's time to step off the sidelines and into the game! Enjoy this Lenten season!!
1) Pick a passage of scripture and read over it several times.
One of the problems in our fast paced society is we see a lot of information and facts but we don't really absorb them. Now, I will say some people are gifted and can learn a lot just by glancing at a book or article or so on. For most of us that is not the case. We need to see and hear things, many times. I encourage pick out a book (now you won't make it through Psalms), or two of the Bible and read over them several times. Pay attention to details, insert your own name in the place of pronouns, pray each night that the spirit would illumine your mind to something new, and be amazed at what you learn.
I encourage you to read over many different books. Two of my favorite are 2 Corinthians or Philippians.
2) Pray really big prayers.
I'm sure if God had a nickel for every person who prayed, "Bless me." He would have A LOT of money! But, aren't we selling God short by praying such small prayers? Isn't the God of the universe capable of big, sweeping life change? I encourage start praying that racism would be eliminated in this generation. Start praying that the church would be so moved that they would seek to eliminate world hunger or water-borne disease. Ask God for healing for the victims of domestic or sexual violence. Don't sell God short. Pray big, and be amazed but patient at the opportunities that God brings into your family's life.
3) Try something brand new.
How many of us always play it safe? I do, often, and I will admit I do feel really guilty about that. This Lenten season try something brand new. Volunteer for a ministry at church. Start doing devotions together as a family. Begin to increase your monthly giving to your church or ministry of choice. Sponsor a child who lives in a poor country. Volunteer your time at an after school club. Step up to clean up at church after a big function. I think you get my point. The list of new opportunities is endless. It's time to step off the sidelines and into the game! Enjoy this Lenten season!!
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
on Proverbs 10
Wisdom at all junctures in life is an incredibly valuable asset in every single area of life. Wisdom isn't flashy, catchy, or even sexy, but if the word of God serves as any guide to us it is that foolishness actions bring about some disastrous consequences. Wisdom brings about long life, blessing, and abundance, most of the time. Please be advised that some very moral, very wise people have sadly met tragic ends all too soon. Let's dive into Proverbs 10. . .
Proverbs 10:2, "Ill-gotten treasures have no long lasting value. . ."
We live in a "now" society, we want fame, riches, free stuff, even our burrito we popped in the microwave to be finished and received now. So, often the necessary step to receive all of this stuff now is to take short cuts, cheat the system, be dishonest, and all for the gratification without the necessary work. We have received our treasures but they are ill-gotten. They fade away. We don't appreciate them as much because we didn't really earn them, and even worse is the reality that someone at some point could find out how we achieved the goal and then have the goal take away.
The remedy is to work hard. Be above reproach. Be honest with people, always try your best, and never stop improving. I think many of us believe that our society would be greatly improved by men and women who focus on building honest achievement, our generous with their treasures to those less fortunate, and look to grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus Christ more and more.
Proverbs 10:8, "The wise in heart accept commands. . ."
One of the passages of scripture you will rarely see preached on are the several passages of scripture that say the people of God obeyed the Lord's commands. You just won't every hear that sermon, because it's mundane, route, daily. That passage doesn't bring up strong emotions in many people, but what it does do is bring about the power of the gospel and what the gospel asks of us, to obey the word of God.
Now, I will say it isn't easy to obey God. In fact as a youth pastor, I even mess up daily. But, the idea is that we journey closer and closer to become more like Jesus Christ each and every day. Learn to be teachable, understand you don't have all the answers, and never stop reading the word of God.
Definitely check out the rest of the chapter. Especially look at these three verses: 10:11, 10:26, and 10:32.
Proverbs 10:2, "Ill-gotten treasures have no long lasting value. . ."
We live in a "now" society, we want fame, riches, free stuff, even our burrito we popped in the microwave to be finished and received now. So, often the necessary step to receive all of this stuff now is to take short cuts, cheat the system, be dishonest, and all for the gratification without the necessary work. We have received our treasures but they are ill-gotten. They fade away. We don't appreciate them as much because we didn't really earn them, and even worse is the reality that someone at some point could find out how we achieved the goal and then have the goal take away.
The remedy is to work hard. Be above reproach. Be honest with people, always try your best, and never stop improving. I think many of us believe that our society would be greatly improved by men and women who focus on building honest achievement, our generous with their treasures to those less fortunate, and look to grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus Christ more and more.
Proverbs 10:8, "The wise in heart accept commands. . ."
One of the passages of scripture you will rarely see preached on are the several passages of scripture that say the people of God obeyed the Lord's commands. You just won't every hear that sermon, because it's mundane, route, daily. That passage doesn't bring up strong emotions in many people, but what it does do is bring about the power of the gospel and what the gospel asks of us, to obey the word of God.
Now, I will say it isn't easy to obey God. In fact as a youth pastor, I even mess up daily. But, the idea is that we journey closer and closer to become more like Jesus Christ each and every day. Learn to be teachable, understand you don't have all the answers, and never stop reading the word of God.
Definitely check out the rest of the chapter. Especially look at these three verses: 10:11, 10:26, and 10:32.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
on Making a Murderer
In case you've missed it this show, Making a Murderer, has been blowing up the news world and many Netflix ques. The story centers around Steven Avery and his nephew Brendan Dassey who were arrested for murdering freelance photographer Teresa Halbach. The show also looks at Avery's trial, sentence, and exoneration for sexual assault and attempted murder of Penny Bornstein in 1985. After his exoneration 2003, Avery filed a major law suit against the Manitowoc County Police.
The show is filmed over a ten year period by film makers Laura Riccardi and Moira Demos, and it chronicles the saga of Avery and Dassey's arrest, trial, and many other events surrounding his original conviction and lawsuit against the Manitowoc County Police department. The show does have an MA rating, so please be advised that allowing younger children to watch this program will expose them to some very mature themes.
Here are a few thoughts on the matter. . .
1) Be careful who we look up to.
The subject matter of this show is very interesting. I'm not going to lie, I love courtroom drama. I've read 5 Michael Connelly books, and I have two more to read, but we as followers of Jesus Christ need to be very careful how we handle shows and situations like this. Steven Avery is a man with a troubled past. He should be prayed for and loved and encouraged that his actions need forgiveness. He doesn't need to be celebrated. This show has in some ways turned him into a house hold name and that saddens me. We know the name of this man who has such a troubled past but for many of us we couldn't name one of our local police officers or firefighters, and the list can go on. Jesus died for him as well, and Jesus desires that one day Steven Avery will accept him as his personal savior.
Philippians 4:8 is a great reminder of Paul that we should look and think on things that are pure, noble, excellent, and holy. Be mindful of that verse when watching shows such as this one.
2) Be careful about advocating violent entertainment.
We live in a culture of violence. To be fair I think the world was always violent, but with our expanded and improved way to share information I think we see violence more and more than generations past have seen violence. But, as followers of Jesus we're called to love the world, but not be a part of the world. I encourage you to pray for peace. See and support movies and entertainment that support family values. Vote in elections for candidates who support and will vote for things you believe. Pray for victims of domestic violence. Talk to your children and younger siblings about how violence is wrong and if they see it on the TV or in a video game how it shouldn't be imitated in real life, and above all look to draw closer to Jesus no matter what. Jesus said blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth, and he also said blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God! (Matthew 5:5, 5:9)
The show is filmed over a ten year period by film makers Laura Riccardi and Moira Demos, and it chronicles the saga of Avery and Dassey's arrest, trial, and many other events surrounding his original conviction and lawsuit against the Manitowoc County Police department. The show does have an MA rating, so please be advised that allowing younger children to watch this program will expose them to some very mature themes.
Here are a few thoughts on the matter. . .
1) Be careful who we look up to.
The subject matter of this show is very interesting. I'm not going to lie, I love courtroom drama. I've read 5 Michael Connelly books, and I have two more to read, but we as followers of Jesus Christ need to be very careful how we handle shows and situations like this. Steven Avery is a man with a troubled past. He should be prayed for and loved and encouraged that his actions need forgiveness. He doesn't need to be celebrated. This show has in some ways turned him into a house hold name and that saddens me. We know the name of this man who has such a troubled past but for many of us we couldn't name one of our local police officers or firefighters, and the list can go on. Jesus died for him as well, and Jesus desires that one day Steven Avery will accept him as his personal savior.
Philippians 4:8 is a great reminder of Paul that we should look and think on things that are pure, noble, excellent, and holy. Be mindful of that verse when watching shows such as this one.
2) Be careful about advocating violent entertainment.
We live in a culture of violence. To be fair I think the world was always violent, but with our expanded and improved way to share information I think we see violence more and more than generations past have seen violence. But, as followers of Jesus we're called to love the world, but not be a part of the world. I encourage you to pray for peace. See and support movies and entertainment that support family values. Vote in elections for candidates who support and will vote for things you believe. Pray for victims of domestic violence. Talk to your children and younger siblings about how violence is wrong and if they see it on the TV or in a video game how it shouldn't be imitated in real life, and above all look to draw closer to Jesus no matter what. Jesus said blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth, and he also said blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God! (Matthew 5:5, 5:9)
on Music
Psalm 100 states that we are to make a joyful noise to the Lord. Thank goodness it never says that we are to make a noise that is on tune, sweet sounding, or pleasant. Because, as someone who is pretty much tone deaf, I can't carry a tune in a bucket. What I conclude from this verse is that God loves people who use music among many other things to praise and worship him. As I dive into music, I encourage you to look at what CDs are in your collection, what music plays on your vehicle's radio, and ask yourself is the music I listen to bringing me closer or drawing me farther away from God?
1) Be gracious to all in the area of music.
Colossians 4:6 states that we should let our speech gracious, seasoned with salt. . . People love their music and use their music for many different reasons. Some people use music to get themselves pumped up for a big athletic game, test, or even to finally tell that special boy or girl how they feel. Others use music to relax and unwind after a long, stressful day. While still others use music to heal and move on from a painful life music, and still others use music to draw closer to God.
So, I'm writing to caution you, be careful what you about music that other people listen to and even at times love. We live in a world where we disagree on many things, but what I'm wondering is can we offer a dissenting opinion with a spirit of love and kindness? I think so. Music criticism can be very damaging especially when it is levied against worship music. Please be very gracious when someone seeks to worship God in a way that is different than your preferred style. Look to understand and know that God is bigger than hymns, bigger than guitars, and even bigger than the English language and God is worshiped and honored in all when our hearts are right. Not once in scripture did God command His people to worship only with piano, only in church, only with hymns, or only on Sunday, but God constantly was disciplining and correcting his people for having hearts that were sets on sinful things.
2) Don't make an idol out of music.
In Exodus 20, God was really clear to Moses that he should have no other Gods before Him. Jesus' discussion with many would be followers in Luke 9:57-62 is very similar. So, I bring that up to say this, "Have we made an idol out of music?"
Do we get so bent out of shape when a guitar appears in worship that we lose sight of the God we worship? Do we moan and groan when we have to sit and listen to hymns instead of letting our hair fly at a Christian rock concert? Do we get enthusiastic when our favorite music is being played or do we get even more excited about the God we're singing about?
Value the music you love. Cherish the memories you had at concerts or in church listening to that music, but never lose sight of the bigger picture and that is God honored not with music first and foremost but with hearts that are lifted up to him and community that desires Jesus above everything else.
I encourage you to read this piece that Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman said during an interview in 2014. May God richly bless you this day.
http://whizzpopping.tumblr.com/post/6664742872/jon-foreman-when-asked-if-switchfoot-is-a
1) Be gracious to all in the area of music.
Colossians 4:6 states that we should let our speech gracious, seasoned with salt. . . People love their music and use their music for many different reasons. Some people use music to get themselves pumped up for a big athletic game, test, or even to finally tell that special boy or girl how they feel. Others use music to relax and unwind after a long, stressful day. While still others use music to heal and move on from a painful life music, and still others use music to draw closer to God.
So, I'm writing to caution you, be careful what you about music that other people listen to and even at times love. We live in a world where we disagree on many things, but what I'm wondering is can we offer a dissenting opinion with a spirit of love and kindness? I think so. Music criticism can be very damaging especially when it is levied against worship music. Please be very gracious when someone seeks to worship God in a way that is different than your preferred style. Look to understand and know that God is bigger than hymns, bigger than guitars, and even bigger than the English language and God is worshiped and honored in all when our hearts are right. Not once in scripture did God command His people to worship only with piano, only in church, only with hymns, or only on Sunday, but God constantly was disciplining and correcting his people for having hearts that were sets on sinful things.
2) Don't make an idol out of music.
In Exodus 20, God was really clear to Moses that he should have no other Gods before Him. Jesus' discussion with many would be followers in Luke 9:57-62 is very similar. So, I bring that up to say this, "Have we made an idol out of music?"
Do we get so bent out of shape when a guitar appears in worship that we lose sight of the God we worship? Do we moan and groan when we have to sit and listen to hymns instead of letting our hair fly at a Christian rock concert? Do we get enthusiastic when our favorite music is being played or do we get even more excited about the God we're singing about?
Value the music you love. Cherish the memories you had at concerts or in church listening to that music, but never lose sight of the bigger picture and that is God honored not with music first and foremost but with hearts that are lifted up to him and community that desires Jesus above everything else.
I encourage you to read this piece that Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman said during an interview in 2014. May God richly bless you this day.
http://whizzpopping.tumblr.com/post/6664742872/jon-foreman-when-asked-if-switchfoot-is-a
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
on the New Year
As 2015 draws to a close we can't help but reflect on what was and what will be. 2015 was a year that was filled with many great moments for us all and many moments filled with pain. But, what is most important is not whether or not you had a landmark or a valley year. The most important part is what you learned and who you've become and did you become more like Jesus in 2015.
Here's a few reflections from the past year.
1) Acquiring patience leads to a fulfilling life.
We live in an instant gratification society. Most of us want our goals, our dreams, and even our coffee right now. Waiting is the bane of almost all of our lives, very few people enjoy the lines, the traffic, or being on hold. But, the truth is our God doesn't operate on our timetable. Our God isn't in the business of always giving us what we want but rather, God is in the business of placing people, situations, and opportunities that are designed to make you more like Jesus.
Acquiring patience, learning how to speak with love and compassion, and being gracious in frustrating circumstances are HUGE steps to acquiring more patience. Once you begin to pray BIG prayers, ask for more patience, and look to learn in upsetting circumstances you will begin to have a fulfilling life!
2) Prepare for the storm during the sunshine.
During the Cold War days many people in our country had bomb shelters that were fully stocked in case disaster happened to strike. People were ready and prepared, and they prepared before the disaster. Now, I will say that tough moments are bound to come in all of our lives, so prepare for them now.
Let your friends know that you're there for them, and be there for them. Because you will need them when disaster comes. Build up your spiritual disciplines now, because the moment when disaster comes your faith will be one of the main things that will get you through it. Most importantly, tell your loved ones you're thankful for them, and be thankful for the blessings you have. Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that we are to give thanks in all circumstances.
This year promises to be a good one. Worship often. Pray big prayers. Seek wisdom and look for ways to serve the Lord with gladness!!
Here's a few reflections from the past year.
1) Acquiring patience leads to a fulfilling life.
We live in an instant gratification society. Most of us want our goals, our dreams, and even our coffee right now. Waiting is the bane of almost all of our lives, very few people enjoy the lines, the traffic, or being on hold. But, the truth is our God doesn't operate on our timetable. Our God isn't in the business of always giving us what we want but rather, God is in the business of placing people, situations, and opportunities that are designed to make you more like Jesus.
Acquiring patience, learning how to speak with love and compassion, and being gracious in frustrating circumstances are HUGE steps to acquiring more patience. Once you begin to pray BIG prayers, ask for more patience, and look to learn in upsetting circumstances you will begin to have a fulfilling life!
2) Prepare for the storm during the sunshine.
During the Cold War days many people in our country had bomb shelters that were fully stocked in case disaster happened to strike. People were ready and prepared, and they prepared before the disaster. Now, I will say that tough moments are bound to come in all of our lives, so prepare for them now.
Let your friends know that you're there for them, and be there for them. Because you will need them when disaster comes. Build up your spiritual disciplines now, because the moment when disaster comes your faith will be one of the main things that will get you through it. Most importantly, tell your loved ones you're thankful for them, and be thankful for the blessings you have. Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that we are to give thanks in all circumstances.
This year promises to be a good one. Worship often. Pray big prayers. Seek wisdom and look for ways to serve the Lord with gladness!!
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