Pastor’s Pen

APRIL NEWSLETTER

Living long enough, you witness trends rise and fall –like Beanie Babies, lava lamps, or 3-D movies with quirky glasses.  Some things endure; others fade quickly.  I have seen a lot of fads that rise and fall and come and go.

Faith takes different forms–some see it as a fleeting fad based on social or cultural pressures, while for others, it’s a firm foundation.  As the Apostle Paul said, “Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.”       (1 Cor. 15:58)

The distinction between temporary faith and enduring, foundational faith becomes evident during periods of adversity and challenge.  Shallow or superficial faith never survives difficulties.  In contrast, foundational faith persists through storms and hardships.  Churches that have demonstrated resilience and growth are tyupically those who members united, sharing common values of faith, hope, and love.  Cooperation and Partnership withing the Gospel of Christ are essential; we are not intended to face these challenges alone.

Secondly, we must Persist through hardship!  Strong storms are on the horizon.  Don’t abandon ship!  “Be steadfast, unmovable . . .  you labor is not in vain.”  When Jesus rides in your vessel, no storm can overcome or defeat you.  He still has the power to calm storms.

Lastly, Pray with urgency!  Big Rich Williams posted this on his Facebook page this week. “The devil thought he had me until he heard me say, “AMEN”.  Real faith understands the necessity of a consistent prayer life.  Our Lord’s last instructions before His ascension was to “watch and pray.”  Is your faith a fad or foundational?

Soon the Savior shall split the eastern sky, soon darkness will end, and soon the Lord’s Kingdom will come on earth as it is in heaven.  The question is, when He comes, will He find faith?  We Partner, We Persist, We Pray!