In the Fight | Feb. 18th

“I have fought the good fight,...”

   2 Timothy 4:7

  Beloved, it is regrettable that, in contemporary times, the Gospel is often portrayed merely as a means of personal improvement. While it is true that receiving Jesus brings transformation, He is not simply a means to an end. Unfortunately, the ongoing struggle inherent in this new, blessed life is frequently overlooked.

  Christ has ransomed us from our sins and delivered us from the kingdom of darkness. Now that you belong to the kingdom of the Son, that darkness will assail you. The tempter, the spirit of this age, and our own flesh will war against us. Each day, you must crucify yourself in Christ and count yourself dead to this world. It is a struggle.

  This struggle can be overwhelming. It weighs on the mind and spirit. It is constant and will not end in this side of eternity. Like Paul, we must fight the good fight by being strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. In Christ, we find victory. We can ask the Holy Spirit each day to help us overcome by His strength, and when we are tired, trust in the mercy of God to keep us.

  Resolve to engage in the spiritual battle today, not by relying on your own strength, but on God’s. Remember that the victory has already been secured, and your ultimate reliance is on Christ and His sustaining power.

Little Lambs | Feb. 17th

  “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them,..”

   Matthew 19:14

  Beloved, let us take to heart this exhortation from the Lord to bring our children to Him. His love for them is greater than ours. His plan for them is beyond our wisdom and eternal. God’s provision for our children is limitless.

  We worry, become impatient, are surprised, and cannot control or know their future. But God knows the beginning and the end. He is patient, redemptive, works all things for the good of their salvation, and they are never beyond His reach or hidden from Him.

  Even when our children try to run and hide from God, stumble, or fall, He is there. The Lord sees, knows, and calls. His mercy is new, and His goodness follows them. If they wander, He finds them and brings them to their senses so they turn toward home.

  Do not hesitate or stop bringing your children to the Lord in prayer. Your prayers prevail, and God’s word will not return void. Continue planting seed and watering as you wait for the Lord to bring life.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Victory in Peace | Feb. 16th

“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”

   Romans 16:20

  Beloved, let us find comfort today in the assurance that God grants us peace, while our adversary receives wrath. Christ, as the Captain of our salvation, has destroyed the power of sin and death. Although we face trials and opposition from the enemy of our souls, we have an advocate in Christ.

  We contend with wickedness, yet not by our own strength, for we have received the full armor of God in Christ. The Holy Spirit dwells within us, and the enemy stands defeated. Do not permit the enemy to intimidate, discourage, or condemn you. In Christ, you possess peace, while the adversary awaits the full measure of God's wrath.

  Your inheritance is peace, mercy, grace, and joy. This cannot be taken from you, and you cannot be separated from the love of God. Rest in your Father’s loving kindness today. The God of peace is for you, and He will defend you from all the schemes of wickedness.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight