May 4, 2025

Growth That Makes A Difference - Galatians 5:22-25

When branches are full and spilling over with fruit, we assume the tree is healthy. We may not be able to see the quality of the soil, and we probably didn’t witness the tree being fertilized or pruned, but looking at it, we can see the evidence of steady growth and regular care and attention. Likewise, the display of fruit in our spiritual life indicates health and maturity in a believer. The Apostle Paul lists, “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” as the fruit of the spirit! When we’re growing and maturing in Christ, these qualities become evident. We will respond to challenges with peace, patience and self-control. We will love our neighbors as we love ourselves and do unto them as we would have them do unto us. We will be compassionate and helpful to those who are in need. Bearing the fruit of the spirit fully displays the character of God being evident and alive in us! It is crucial that we all grow and mature in the very nature of Christ! This is growth that will make a difference, not only in us, but the world around us as well!

May 11, 2025

Godly Influence - Ruth 1:1-22

Happy Mother’s Day to all of our earthly and spiritual mom’s. Reading about the relationship between Naomi and her daughter in-law, Ruth, we see how God takes a tragic and desperate situation and fulfills His plans and purpose that honors and glorifies Him! After Naomi’s family left Bethlehem, they suffered the loss of her two sons and husband. Suddenly, there was no man to support the family, leaving Naomi, Ruth and Orpah to fear that God had left them. Naomi described herself as bitter and empty. She did not see herself worthy to help, let alone mentor her daughters-in-law. But because of her steadfast strength and godly influence, there was a strong bond formed between them. She encouraged them to leave her as she returned to her homeland, she explained that there was virtually no hope of a family future for them there. Ruth was not persuaded to leave Naomi. She made a passionate commitment, saying, “whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:” Through a loving relationship, Ruth expressed faith both to Naomi and to her God. Naomi in her weakest moment, feeling so empty and inadequate, made a difference in the life of Ruth. We never know what influence our relationships, words and actions might have on the lives of others. Even in the darkest times, feeling empty and helpless, being committed and staying faithful to God, He can use you to make a difference in others!

May 18, 2025

Pressing On - Hosea 6:3, “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” ‭‭Throughout the Old Testament, Israel had a history of struggling to stay committed to following God. Once again they turned away from Him and went their own way, yet God once again put His mercy on display. He sent the prophet Hosea to Israel, He was ready to restore them, but they had to make some choices, Hosea told them they needed to “press on to know the LORD.” They could not be passive, this had to be a real commitment! God allows us to make choices every day. We choose what to do and say, where to go, and what to do with our time and resources. He allows us to reject Him or follow Him. Even as a child of God, if not guarded, we still can go our own way and not experience all He has prepared for us. Let me encourage you to “press on” to know Him! Daily pour yourself out before the lord. Spend time with Him, seek Him, and fill your lives with His Word. As we do this, our commitment will be solidified, our choices and decisions we make will align with His purpose and plan. We will see and experience the presence and glory of our Heavenly Father! 

May 25, 2025

Our Praise Is Infectious 

Psalm 34: 2-4, My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

The bible gives clear and precise instruction for all believers in Christ to praise God. When you begin to think about it, you will see how effective our praise is. Praise loosens the stress and heaviness of everyday life away from us. Praise honors God and encourages others. When Christian and non-Christian alike, see honest and sincere praise in good times and bad, it touches their lives in indescribable ways. Our praise naturally brings a closeness to God, it creates a bond, it generates a power that enables us to be strengthened day-to-day. Whatever you may be facing, as difficult as it may be, praise will lift you up above it! The darkness is lifted, the burdens are rolled away, the realness of God is displayed and experienced when we praise the Lord! God responds to our honest and genuine praise of Him. I pray that daily we are more intentional and passionate with our praise unto our Heavenly Father, He, and He alone is worthy!