It was so great to hear from so many of you today. I am encouraged that many of you are taking in our daily reflections through our website. Please, please, feel free to contact me – I would love to hear from you.
I have been spending time in Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians. These books are special to me for they were the first books of the Bible that I ever taught to an Adult Sunday school class many, many years ago. They are very interesting books that give us great hope as God’s people. In 1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NIV) Paul says, “ And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.” The Bible is a fascinating book to read. It gives us a panoramic view of history and culture – of human relationships and events. But above all, it gives us a life changing message of God’s love for us and His quest to restore our relationship with Him, through His Son Jesus Christ.
I can remember how I trembled the first time I attended a Bible Study. I was so nervous that people would see my ignorance or that I would give the wrong answer or that I wouldn’t get it. Just a few of the lies Satan uses to keep us out of God’s word. My friends, be assured it is God’s loving desire that we spend time in His word, with Him, so that He might “work” in us to transform our hearts and minds to become more like Jesus.
I read this the other day, “The Bible is the only book whose Author is always present when it is read.” I encourage us to spend time with the author of the Universe these days. When stress comes, let His word encourage you. When we face the unknown, rest in the grace and promises of His word. Remember, the word of God is there as an anchor for us and it is an anchor that will never fail.
God bless you. May His love surround you and may the wonderful grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be your portion this night and forever more. Amen.
Pastor Ralph
You are a beautiful writer Pastor! Thank you for what you are doing to help us get through these uncertain times. We can rest assured that God is with us - heck I’m beginning to believe he may have had a hand in this just a little ... maybe this is the jolt we needed to remember who God made us to be - loving, compassionate and beautiful people! Love one another as He loved us! Thank you for our little piece of Heaven through your writings...look forward to more encouraging words from you. Yours in Christ, Anna D