Pastor's Ponderings, January 27, 2026

Who Is on the Lord’s Side?

 

Have you ever noticed how two people can look at the exact same thing and come away with completely different conclusions? There’s a reason. Optical illusions are so fascinating—what we see often depends on our perspective, experiences, and mindset. One image, two viewers, two very different interpretations.

 

We see this play out in real life all the time. Recent tragic events in Minnesota are a painful example. People are watching the same footage, hearing the same facts, yet describing what happened in completely opposite ways. Even when clear evidence is available, opinions remain firmly divided. What we see is shaped by how we think—and by what we choose to believe.

 

That reality should cause those of us who love the Lord to pause and ask an important question: How does God want us to see the world? The Bible tells us that believers have access to a different way of seeing—the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). We are also encouraged to let Christ’s attitude and way of thinking guide our lives (Philippians 2:5). That means we can’t simply adopt the loudest opinions or the most popular narratives around us.

 

Scripture warns against calling good evil and evil good (Isaiah 5:20). Yet that happens all the time. Compassion is criticized. Mercy is dismissed. Care for immigrants, strangers, and the poor is questioned—even though Jesus made it clear that loving and serving them is central to following Him (Matthew 25:35).

 

At some point, we all must decide where we stand. Being “on the Lord’s side” isn’t about politics, popularity, or personal comfort. It’s about aligning our hearts with His. Jesus consistently showed concern for the overlooked, the homeless, the hurting, and those pushed to the margins of society. Scripture tells us that He went about doing good and healing those who had been harmed (Acts 10:38). That same calling rests on us today.

 

God makes it clear what kind of faith He desires—not empty words, but action: freeing the oppressed, breaking chains of injustice, feeding the hungry, and caring for those without shelter (Isaiah 58:6–7).

 

So let’s make a conscious choice to see the world through God’s eyes, not through fear, anger, or misinformation. Let’s refuse to echo the cruelty and indifference of the world system. Instead, let’s stand up for the vulnerable, help those in need, and love the people others ignore.

When we choose to be on the Lord’s side, God promises blessing, healing, protection, and guidance. He hears our cries and walks with us every step of the way (Isaiah 58:8–9).

 

Dear friends, let us commit ourselves to having the mind of Christ—and to living boldly, compassionately, and faithfully on His side.

 

1 Corinthians 2:16

New International Version

16 for, “Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?”

But we have the mind of Christ.

 

Philippians 2:5

New King James Version

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus

 

Isaiah 5:20

New International Version

20 Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter

 

Matthew 25:35

New International Version

35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,

 

Acts 10:38

New International Version

38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

 

Isaiah 58:6-9

New International Version

6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?

7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.

9 Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.

 

  

Pastor's Ponderings, January 19, 2026

 Let Us Seek God’s Righteousness

In 2013, Pharrell Williams released the upbeat song “Happy.” It was catchy, fun, and impossible not to smile when it came on. The lyrics encouraged people to clap, dance, and celebrate happiness—no matter what was going on around them.

 

What’s interesting is that the song became popular during a time of real stress and uncertainty. Back then, just like now, people were worried about debt, jobs, healthcare, war, disease, crime, and the future. Chaos and tension felt normal. And today, not much has changed. Jesus even acknowledged this kind of worry when He said that these are the things the world is always anxious about (Matthew 6:32).

 

But Jesus also gave us reassurance. He told us not to live in constant worry because God already knows what we need (Matthew 6:31, 34). Worry doesn’t add anything to our lives—but trusting God does.

That’s why Scripture encourages us to lift our focus higher. “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). 

 

Jesus said if we seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness first, everything else we truly need will be taken care of (Matthew 6:33).

As believers, we’re not powerless. God has given us authority—to stand against evil and to release what is good and life-giving. As His representatives on earth, we can pray and live out, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10).

So yes, we can still be happy. We can live with joy, hope, and excitement—not because life is perfect, but because God is working on our behalf. Evil doesn’t get the final word. Therefore let’s choose to seek God’s righteousness, trusting that this is exactly where peace, purpose, and true happiness are found.

 

Matthew 6:31-34

New International Version
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 
32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own

 

Colossians 3:2

New International Version

2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

 

Matthew 6:10

New International Version

10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

 

 

Pastor's Pondering, January 7, 2026

Let Us Rejoice in 2026

A new year is here, and with it comes fresh opportunity. New beginnings. New chances. Many of us start the year setting goals, making resolutions, and hoping this will be the year things finally change. And the good news is—you don’t have to be held back by past mistakes or missed opportunities. What’s behind you doesn’t have to define what’s ahead. You can honestly say to your family, friends, and neighbors, “I’m not the same person I used to be.” God is still working, and real transformation is possible.

 

The Bible tells us that God already has a plan for our lives—a good plan, filled with hope and purpose (Jeremiah 29:11). He invites us to stop living in the past and to move forward toward what He has called us to be (Philippians 3:14). That means letting go of old habits, old thinking, and old fears, and stepping into the new life we have in Christ (Ephesians 4:22–24). With His strength, we can do what once felt impossible (Philippians 4:13).

 

When doubts creep in and tell you, “This is just the way you’ve always been,” remember the truth: God has rescued you from darkness and brought you into His Kingdom (Colossians 1:13). You don’t have to think the old way anymore—you have the mind of Christ. You are not who the world says you are; you are who God says you are.

 

Maybe you stumbled in previous years. Maybe last year felt like a struggle. But in 2026, God can keep you standing and guide you forward (Jude 24). Where there was defeat, He brings victory (1 Corinthians 15:57). Where there were flaws, God continues His work of shaping and restoring you (Psalm 138:8).

 

This year is not a repeat of the past—it’s a fresh page. And God is ready to create something beautiful in your life. So let us rejoice in 2026, trusting that the best is still ahead.

 

Jeremiah 29:11

New King James Version

11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

 

Philippians 3:14

New International Version

14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

 

Ephesians 4:22-24

New International Version

22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;
23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds;
24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

 

Philippians 4:13

New International Version

13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

 

Colossians 1:13

New International Version

13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves,

 

Jude 24

New International Version

24 To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy—

 

1 Corinthians 15:57

New International Version

57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Psalm 138:8

New King James Version

8 The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Pastor's Ponderings, December 29, 2025

God Delivers His Children From Evil

 

Have you ever looked around and wondered why the world feels so chaotic? It seems like everywhere we turn there’s conflict, confusion, and division. People argue over small differences, tempers flare easily, and kindness often feels in short supply. The Bible tells us there is a real spiritual battle happening behind the scenes. Scripture describes the enemy as one who prowls around, looking for ways to harm, divide, and destroy (1 Peter 5:8). He stirs up pride, dishonesty, violence, and trouble—things God clearly hates (Proverbs 6:16–19).

 

Because of this, our world can feel upside down. Business leaders act like politicians. Politicians threaten and posture instead of serving. Pastors feel pressure to entertain, while entertainers are treated like moral authorities. Many people seem driven by fear—afraid they won’t have enough; afraid they’ll be left behind—so they fight for everything they can get. It’s as if something unseen is pushing people in unhealthy directions.

 

The Bible explains that the enemy blinds the minds of those who don’t believe, making it hard for them to see the truth (2 Corinthians 4:4). Jesus warned that when blind leaders lead blind followers, everyone ends up falling into trouble (Luke 6:39). The goal of the enemy has always been the same: to steal, kill, and destroy, keeping people trapped and confused (2 Timothy 2:26).

 

But that is not the end of the story. God promises wisdom to anyone who asks Him (James 1:5). He gives peace to those who seek Him because He is the Prince of Peace. He fills us with joy that gives us strength, even when life feels heavy (Nehemiah 8:10). For those who love the Lord, God promises stability and growth—like a tree planted by water that continues to bear fruit (Psalm 1:3). His desire is not for us to live in fear or confusion, but to prosper, be healthy, and walk confidently with Him (3 John 2).

 

As we move through today and into 2026, let’s keep our eyes on Jesus, the One who began our faith and continues to strengthen it. Let’s choose not to be shaken by all the noise, anger, and confusion around us.

We belong to our Creator. We are held in His hands. And no matter what happens in the world, God will keep us, protect us, and love us forever.

 

1 Peter 5:8

New International Version

8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

 

Proverbs 6:16-19

New International Version

16 There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him:

17  haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,

18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil,

19 a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.

 

2 Corinthians 4:4

New International Version

4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

 

Luke 6:39

New International Version

39 He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit?

 

2 Timothy 2:26

New International Version

26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

 

James 1:5

New International Version

5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

 

Nehemiah 8:10

New International Version

10 Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

 

Psalm 1:3

New International Version

3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

 

3 John 2

New King James Version

2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

Pastor's Ponderings, December 21, 2025

 God Really Loves Us

As we get older, the conversations around us begin to change. We hear more often about friends facing illness, hospital stays, or painful losses. When someone asks, “Did you hear about so-and-so?” our hearts almost brace for bad news. Of course, we love hearing the joyful reports—marriages, babies, new opportunities—but life often brings sorrow too.

In moments like these, we may wonder: What does God think about our pain? The Bible makes it clear—God is not distant or uncaring. Scripture says the death of His people is precious to Him (Psalm 116:15). When Jesus stood at the tomb of Lazarus, He wept (John 11:35). God feels what we feel. Our Savior experienced every kind of human struggle and pain (Hebrews 4:15). He even keeps record of our tears (Psalm 56:8). That is how compassionate He is toward us.

People may walk away from us. Friends may disappoint. Even family may turn against us. But God never will. We are the apple of His eye (Psalm 17:8). Through Christ, we are accepted into His family (Ephesians 1:6). Even when we fall short—when our actions are messy, stubborn, or shameful—God still loves us deeply.

We don’t approach Him in fear. We come with gratitude and confidence because He already chose to love us first. God proved His love by giving His Son for us. And if He did not withhold Jesus, Scripture says He will graciously give us everything we truly need (Romans 8:32).

As we move through this Christmas season, or any season of life, remember this: God is never far away. He is as close as a prayer, closer than a thought. His arms surround us, whispering that everything—including us—is safely in His hands.

God really does love us.

 

Psalm 116:15

New International Version

15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.

 

John 11:35

New International Version

35 Jesus wept.

 

Hebrews 4:15

New International Version

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.

 

Psalm 56:8

New Living Translation

8 You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.

 

Psalm 17:8

New International Version

8 Keep me as the apple of your eye;hide me in the shadow of your wings

 

Ephesians 1:6

New King James Version

6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He [a]made us accepted in the Beloved.

 

Romans 8:32

New International Version

32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

 

Pastor's Ponderings, December 12, 2025

Let God’s Redeemed Say So

 

What are you speaking over your life today? Are your words reflecting God’s promises—or just your problems? All of us face tough seasons: loss, sickness, disappointment, financial strain, broken relationships. But Scripture reminds us that God delivers us out of all our troubles (Psalm 34:6). And because of that, the Bible says the redeemed—those who belong to God—should declare it boldly (Psalm 107:2).

 

Aretha Franklin sang it perfectly in 1962: “Ac-cent-tchu-ate the positive, eliminate the negative and latch on to the affirmative but don't mess with mister in between.” That message is as relevant today as ever. God tells us the same thing—set your focus on things above, not on earthly problems (Colossians 3:2).

 

So, what are we choosing to highlight? God’s goodness—or our temporary struggles? Are we trusting that God is working everything together for our good, or are we speaking defeat over our own lives? As Eric Thomas puts it, “If you can look up, you can get up.”

 

And when we get up, we can confidently speak the truth: With God, nothing is impossible (Luke 1:37). God wants us to see ourselves the way He sees us. In His eyes, we are seated in heavenly places. We are overcomers. We are healed, blessed, protected, and equipped to live victorious lives. Our families are blessed. Our steps are ordered. Our lives have purpose.

 

So let the redeemed of the Lord say so! Declare what God has done. Speak life, victory and faith. We can bless His holy name—because He has done great things.

 

Psalm 34:6

New International Version

6 This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles

 

Psalm 107:2

New King James Version

2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy,

 

Colossians 3:2

New International Version

2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

 

Luke 1:37

New King James Version

37 For with God nothing will be impossible.

 

Pastor's Ponderings, December 3, 2025

Speak Kind Words to Others

 

Have you noticed how harsh our public conversations have become? It feels like the days of calm, respectful leadership are long gone. Instead of thoughtful dialogue, we see people shouting, arguing, and pushing aggressively to get their way. President Theodore Roosevelt once advised, “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” Today, many people seem to have flipped that around—speaking loudly while swinging the biggest stick they can find—hoping force will get them what they want.

 

However, Proverbs 15:1 tells us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” We’ve all seen this play out: harsh words escalate arguments, while a calm response can defuse tension almost instantly. Proverbs 15:4 goes even deeper, saying that a twisted or harsh tongue can crush someone’s spirit. Words can wound—but they can also heal. That’s why Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “life and death are in the power of the tongue.” God doesn’t want us to use our words to tear others down. He wants us to use them to bless, encourage, and build up.

 

With so much negativity around us, it can be tempting to imitate the loudest voices—especially when the rude or aggressive people seem to get attention. But the Bible warns us not to follow their example. Proverbs 22:24–25 says to avoid those with hot tempers, because their behavior can rub off on us. We become like the people we spend time with—and we speak like them, too.

So, what should we do instead? We can choose to speak with patience, compassion, and truth. Scripture encourages us to respond with humility, to avoid returning insult for insult, and to treat others with sympathy and love (1 Peter 3:8–9). This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations—it means having them with grace. Speaking truthfully, but gently. Correcting when needed, but always with love.

 

Let’s be people who bring peace into tense moments… who build up instead of tear down… who shine God’s character through our words.

Each day, we have countless chances to bless someone simply by the way we speak. Let’s choose words that show kindness, patience, and love.

 

Proverbs 15:1, 4

New International Version

1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

 

Proverbs 18:21

New International Version

1 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

 

Proverbs 22:24-25

New International Version

24 Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered,

25 or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared

 

1 Peter 3:8-9

New International Version

8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 
9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.