Monday Thoughts from Pastor Tim - May 5

Dear Church Family –

Thanks for another great day in church yesterday!  We’re looking forward to a great month of May!  Next Sunday is Mother’s Day and Child Dedication.  The following two Sundays we will hear testimonies from some of our youth who will be baptized on May 25th.

Yesterday, we continued our study of Ephesians 1 where God lists some of our spiritual resources.  We’ve noted that understanding these spiritual resources gives us a foundation, and “room inside” to make the changes that God brings us to in life.

I thought of that as I read yesterday’s entry in “Daily with the King,” by W. Glyn Evans.  Here’s some excerpts:

“As a disciple of Jesus Christ I must learn the discipline of change.  My preconceived ideas of God’s direction will be upset frequently because I am only God’s servant, not His counselor.  When the cross came into view, Jesus did not become frustrated but said, ‘Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight’ (Matt 11:26).

“Jesus submitted willingly because He knew the intent of the Father.  That is the key: to be assured of God’s intent.  We may forget the details as long as we accept the Person who is inaugurating the changes.

“Many Christians make themselves ill by trying to fathom God.  Peace comes by letting the attitude of Jesus come through: ‘Yes, Father, for this was Your good will” (Luke 10:21). … In the hands of a changeless God, I need fear no change.”

Yesterday, we were reminded of the marvelous outline of Jonathan Edwards’ first sermon.  Jonathan Edwards was an 18th century preacher who was instrumental in a great revival in America called “The Great Awakening.” 

In his very first sermon, he captured the greatness of how knowing God gives us the life strength for change and endurance.  Edwards’ outline was:

1.    Our bad things will turn out for good

2.    Our good things can never be taken from us

3.   The best things are yet to come!

Have a great week walking with the risen, loving Savior – Pastor Tim