Living by Faith in Christ | Jan. 22nd

 “Through him we have also obtained access by faith into the grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”

    Romans 5:2

  Beloved, I hope we stand firm in the conviction that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. This assurance lets us rest, knowing our salvation is secure in Christ. Christ the Redeemer saved us with His very life, and we belong to God.

  But how do you stand today? Is sanctification something we do on our own, or does the grace of God still work in us? Let us remember that we are justified by faith, and, in the same way, sanctified by faith, because God’s grace continues to transform us through Christ.

  From beginning to end, we stand on the grace of God through faith. This does not mean our faith has no evidence in works. Faith in sanctification is the same as in justification, a complete dependence on Christ. Rely not just on what He did, but on Him as our daily bread. The Holy Spirit is also working in and through us.

  So, as you did at salvation, keep your eyes on Christ. He alone is our strength and hope. Stand confidently in His relentless grace today and every day, assured that He will carry you through all things until the end.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Step by Step | Jan. 21st

 “Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken his steadfast love and his faithfulness toward my master. As for me, the Lord has led me in the way to the house of my master’s kinsmen.”

  Genesis 24:27

   Beloved, has the Lord ceased from leading His people? Scripture is marked by God’s providential guidance and care within the lives of His children. For example, there are monumental accounts, such as the parting of the Red Sea. Yet it is not only the spectacular events, but also the ordinary circumstances, such as the meeting at the well in this account, that reveal His guiding hand.

  In this instance, the servant of Abraham had requested God’s guidance, and God was faithful to provide it. This teaches us that it is the steadfast love of God that assures provision. We likewise should expect that God’s love remains steadfast toward us in Christ, remembering that our steps are ordered not on merit but by the providential wisdom of God.

   We must look to the Lord as the servant did and follow in faithful obedience. In following Christ, we know He is working all things for the good of our salvation. Therefore, we can be at peace in His will for our lives. God still guides His people; when we ask and obey, we find true direction and steadfast hope in His faithful hands.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

A New Day | Jan 20th

 “Behold, I am making all things new.”

  Revelation 21:5

   Beloved, as long as I can remember, the new year has often been marked by predictions for the future; this year is no different. Politicians and so-called prophets both proclaim to know what will happen in the immediate future. Some will quote obscure Bible verses out of context, speak of visions, dreams, messages from angels, or claim they have assembled a great team to get the job done.

  With all the noise, one can feel confused, anxious, or misguided. In such moments, it is good for us to withdraw alone with God’s word and to ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate scripture to us. He is our teacher and comforter. We do not know the hour when the Lord shall return, and we have been warned that in this life we will have tribulation. The Lord also told us that we would have His peace, that He has overcome the world, and that while we are here, the Holy Spirit will empower us.

  There is nothing to fear while we wait for the time when God will make all things new. This is what we long for and are preserved by God until we reach our beautiful home. That day will be marked by exceeding joy, and there will be no more sorrow there. Take heart, dear one. Though men may boast, only God truly knows the end, and He alone promises to bring renewal and lasting peace. Rest assured: He is indeed making all things new.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight