2012
Near
We all want to come closer to God. How can we do that? We need to submit to him, resist the devil, purify our lives, confess our sins and repent, and humble ourselves. "Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." -James 4:8. -Pastor Mike
New Duds
Even though I hate to shop, I must admit it is nice to get a new pair of jeans or a sharp tee-shirt. As a Christian, we need to be clothed differently. "Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." -Colossians 3:12. Over all of these put on love! -Pastor Mike
Uncertainty
While God created the world orderly and perfect, sin entered and caused uncertainty. God is never uncertain and never changes. "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the Last, the Beginning and the End." -Revelation 22:13. Since as Christians, we have God within us, we can face uncertainty with perfect peace. - Pastor Mike
Quiet
Noise is everywhere. We need to spend some quiet time with God each day. "The Lord God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." -Zephaniah 3:17. When we turn to God with our concerns, our burdens become lighter. Praise God for his faithfulness! -Pastor Mike
Actions
Actions speak louder than words. God acts with righteousness, justice, love, and faithfulness. We must exhibit these attributes as well. "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord." -Psalm 89:14-15. -Pastor Mike
Treasures
Ever dream of finding a lost treasure? Wouldn't it be awesome to find a buried trunk in your yard, something the former owners of your house left behind, or a great find at a flea mart? Each day God provides treasures for us, both trials and blessings. "...in order that they may know Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and mystery." - Colossians 2:2b-3.
Resentment
When things don't go our way, we can begin to feel regret which can easily spill into resentment. We need to realize that God is sovereign and in control. We need to humble ourselves and rejoice that we serve a God who is doing great things in our lives. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." -1 Peter 5:6. -Pastor Mike
Confidence
When we begin to worry, we need to connect with God at a deeper level. That can be done through prayer, Bible reading, reading books by Christian authors, attending Christian retreats or conferences, or spending time discussing our fears with mature Christians. "...my God will hear me." -Micah 7:7b. Listen to God's response in order to restore your confidence. -Pastor Mike
Clothed
Some people say that "clothes make the man". While I do not buy that line, it is true that when a person is nicely outfitted for a certain time and place, they can be more attractive than they otherwise may be. God dresses us in a better way. "...For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness..." -Isaiah 61:10b. -Pastor Mike
Strength
Yesterday I was watching the DHS boys varsity football team have a scrimmage. Their opponents seemed to have more strength than DHS at this time. Some strength is developed and some strength is given. When we walk with Christ, we can be guaranteed to be given spiritual strength. "The Lord gives strength to his people..." -Psalm 29:11a. -Pastor Mike
