As I was sitting reading the book of Ecclesiastes this morning, I was powerfully reminded that life, all life, anybody’s life, everybody’s life a part from Christ soon becomes empty, meaningless, and desperately disappointing. Ecclesiastes 2:17,
“So I hated life, because what is done under the sun was grievous to me, for all is vanity and a striving after wind.” Yet with a life genuinely and regularly focused on Jesus Christ, whether filled with plenty or need, life can be characterized by real and lasting contentment. Philippians 4:11-13, “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. ¹² I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. ¹³ I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

So, after discussion all of the emptiness and frustration of all of life without Him and all of the fullness and satisfaction of life with Him, Solomon concludes, Ecclesiastes 12:13
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” There is nothing like the truth to set your heart right, your mind straight, and your feet back on the right path!

This Sunday morning we will be studying Acts 22:22-23:22 which carries a great message of encouragement to those following Christ through difficult times. In the Sunday evening service we will be studying I John 2:1-6, focusing on one very powerful and indisputable evidence that Christ lives in you, that in fact you are a child of God. That should also be a great encouragement. See you here, Lord willing.

In Him,

P. Tim

I thought things were supposed to slow down a bit during the summer, but things are not cooperating! This summer has been full of weddings, graduations, missions trips, camps, preparations for the Fall, regular ministry and services, special services, a bit of vacation time, and a few nasty curve balls. I’m not complaining, I’m just saying it’s not slowing down. God has blessed us with people coming to Christ, following the Lord in baptism and joining with our church family. We had a great day this past Sunday with the missions emphasis, missionary speakers, fellowship meal, and “panel” discussion time. I certainly want to thank and praise Pastor Troy and the missions committee for their excellent preparation and work. It really was a blessing.

I also remember thinking as a younger man that as I got older I would have fewer questions and more answers. I was mistaken about that too. I have more questions and fewer answers. It’s a good thing that His church lives on His wisdom and His power, not mine! Over the past few nights I have laid awake and woken very early with some of these unanswered questions on my heart and mind. I was reminded of the simple powerful teaching on Isaiah 26:3, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”
As I unburdened my heart to the Lord and rehearsed His Word in my heart, His peace eased the pain, calmed the fears, and even provided some sweet sleep. Life is life, but God is always good.

I’m looking forward to getting back to our study of Acts this Sunday morning as we will be studying chp. 22. We well get back to our freshly started series in I John on Sunday evening. The bible study type format and the rich truth of the text should be a real encouragement to us all. I hope to see you then.

In Him,

P. Tim