Lose Weight | April 29th

 “Let us lay aside every weight…”

    Hebrews 12:1

  Beloved, laying aside burdens may seem simple, yet often it is not. The writer uses the analogy of an athlete who prepares diligently to run the race well.

  Athletes condition their bodies and remove anything that might hinder their progress. Similarly, we often attempt to carry burdens alone, even when others offer assistance. Our grip is tested, progress slows, and our balance is compromised as we struggle to continue.

  All that is required is to accept help and lay the burden down. The Spirit of God is both willing and able to assist every runner in completing their race. Yet, we often cling to pride, the cares of life, and an unconditioned old nature. Why continue to strain, become frustrated, or grow weary by relying solely on your own strength? Christ will strengthen you. The Holy Spirit will provide wisdom to identify what must be cast off and will help you discern what impedes your progress, enabling you to run well.

  Let us embrace this invitation from the Lord to lay aside every weight by acknowledging our dependence on Him. We cannot run alone, nor can we finish the race without our Savior’s help. Look to Him and put down the burdens of life.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Victory Over Guilt | April 28th

  “Behold, the Lord God helps me; who will declare me guilty?”

   Isaiah 50:9

  Beloved, guilt imposed by others holds no validity if God has forgiven us and is for us. While this brief devotional cannot address every circumstance in which condemnation, judgment, or opposition arise—especially when such responses are unjustified or rooted in past situations, we can rest in this truth.

  Our consolation, regardless of the source of hostility, comes from knowing what God has spoken to us through His word. If we have been reconciled to God, declared guiltless, and Christ is our advocate, this becomes our peace. We can rest assured that the Lord is working and will continue to work all things for our good.

  As His children, we seek to fill our hearts and minds with the truths of our identity in Christ. Though we are not perfect, we grow in sanctification each day. In humility, we examine our hearts before God, acknowledge our sin, and seek His forgiveness and renewal, striving to live in peace with those around us. Ultimately, our hope, peace, and the final word on our identity rest in Christ. Let this truth free us from unwarranted guilt.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Morning With God | April 27th

 “Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.”

      Isaiah 50:4

  Beloved, if we believe that our spiritual life is sustained not by physical bread but by the word of God, then we will come to Him each morning to receive from Him. As we feed our physical bodies, so must we nourish the soul.

 The Holy Spirit must open our ears so that we may receive what is necessary for life. Scripture is given to us so that we might know God. The Bible reveals God's commands, ways, promises, and purposes.

 Just as a student seeks instruction from a teacher, we come to God to grow in our understanding of Him. Let us not neglect time with the Lord in prayerful contemplation and study of scripture. God will meet us there. He will satisfy our souls. In Christ, we will experience a peace the world cannot offer. Let us become hungry for God. May our ears be opened, and let us seek Him each day as the Spirit of God awakens us.

In Christ alone.

Pastor Wight