Secure in Christ | June 5th

"If God is for us, who can be against us?"

Romans 8:31

Heidelberg Catechism poses the question on the Lord's day, "What do you believe concerning the forgiveness of sins"? This is an important question to ponder. The answer is a glorious one to hold on to.

" I believe that God, because of Christ's satisfaction, will no longer remember any of my sins or my sinful nature which I need to struggle against all my life. Rather, by his grace God grants me the righteousness of Christ that I may never come into judgment."

We readily believe and accept that our past sins are forgiven. But do we acknowledge that same righteousness imputed to us in our present condition? Do we understand that God is for us today because of what Christ accomplished for us? We are standing in the righteousness of Christ, reconciled unto the Father in perfect peace, amid our struggle with the sinful nature.

It is from this position that we find joy for today and hope for tomorrow. Assured that God will never forsake us and finish the good work He started. Believe and hold to what Christ has accomplished for you.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight

Right Thinking

"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."

Colossians 3:2

Beloved, may we take this exhortative command to heart and practice. We should not hesitate to meditate upon scripture. That is to put into practice concentrated thought upon the word of God.

In a culture filled with sound bites and fragments of information, we can lose the discipline and benefit of carefully considering the Bible. It is not only necessary for us to read the word of God and to hear it, but we must also take the time to contemplate scripture prayerfully.

Discipline yourself in quieting your mind and concentrating your thoughts upon God and His word. Reflect upon your life in light of God's word. Ask the spirit of God to examine your heart and to seek that your life would conform to God's precepts. Make this a daily practice. God's people grow in the grace and knowledge of Him.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight

God Answers in His Way | June 3rd

"In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered us prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence."

Hebrews 5:1-6

In Gethsemane, Jesus lifted His voice to the Father. Jesus knew the Father could save Him from death. We understand Christ came to make an atonement for our sins. But there is a lesson to learn about prayer in this verse.

We have the assurance that the Father hears us. All of our prayers come before Him. However, He does not always answer in the way that we would understand or like. Christ fully understood what had to be done. It was their plan before the foundations of creation. Jesus was obedient unto death and demonstrated unto us an example of faithfulness.

Beloved, when you come to the Father in prayer, there must always be an understanding and willingness to receive His will. Prayer is not about God performing our will but rather His will. We yield to God's providence. Knowing all that He does is for the good of our salvation.

May God give us grace to accept His will and to trust Him.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight