Pastor's Ponderings, June 24, 2025

Let Us Turn to God Before the End Times

 

If you’ve been paying attention to the news, you’ve probably noticed that talk of war, conflict, and violence is everywhere. American cities are on high alert for possible attacks, and while people worry about safety, the gun industry is projected to make huge profits—nearly $19.6 billion in 2025, according to the Trace.

 

Why is there so much anger, fighting, and hostility in the world? The Bible gives us the answer. James 4:1 tells us that the root of all this fighting comes from battles within our own hearts. We desire things we don’t have, so we argue, we fight, and we even destroy each other to get what we want. When we chase after selfish desires and follow the ways of the world, we end up working against God instead of with Him (James 4:4).

 

But God doesn’t leave us without hope. He invites us to turn to Him, examine our hearts, and ask Him for what we truly need (James 4:2-3). Jesus taught us to ask, seek, and knock—promising that God will provide for us (Matthew 7:7). He even reminded us not to be anxious about what we’ll eat or wear, but to trust that God knows and cares for our needs (Matthew 6:31-33).

 

When we put God first—when we truly delight in Him—He promises to give us the desires of our hearts (Psalm 37:4). That doesn’t mean we should sit back and do nothing. God calls us to work and live responsibly, but He also calls us to stop chasing power, wealth, and status as if they are the ultimate goals. Instead, we should be seeking His kingdom above all else.

 

God has given us spiritual authority. He said He would give us the keys to the kingdom—to bind what is evil and to release what is good (Matthew 16:19). This is our calling: to pray, to act in love, and to work for peace.

 

For those leaders who are pushing for war and power, we must pray. The Bible urges us to pray for all people, especially those in authority, so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Even when world leaders make decisions, God is still in control. Proverbs 21:1 reminds us that God directs the hearts of kings like streams of water—He is always overseeing what happens.

 

Before the world plunges further into conflict and chaos, let’s choose to turn to God now. When we fix our minds on Him, He promises to keep us in perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3), even when the world around us is in turmoil.

 

James 4:1-4

New International Version

1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? 
2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. 
3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

4 You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. 

 

Matthew 7:7

New International Version

7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

 

Matthew 6:31-33

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.

 

Psalm 37:4

New International Version

4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

 

Matthew 16:19

New International Version

19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

 

1 Timothy 2:1, 2

King James Version

1.  I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2. For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

 

Proverbs 21:1

New International Version

21 In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.

 

Isaiah 26:3

New International Version
3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Pastor's Ponderings, June 17, 2025

Let Us Think in a Godly Way

 

What’s been on your mind lately? Are you thinking about the goodness of God? Are your thoughts filled with worship, prayer, Scripture, and ways to love others better? Or are your thoughts weighed down with what someone said or did to hurt you? Maybe you're worrying about what could go wrong next, or replaying the hard things that have already happened.

 

The Bible says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). In other words, our thoughts shape who we are. That’s why it’s so important to ask: What are we feeding our minds? What are we letting settle into our hearts?

 

Jesus said that the words we speak come from what’s stored in our hearts (Luke 6:45). And Proverbs tells us to guard our hearts, because everything we do flows from them (Proverbs 4:23). When we fill our minds with bitterness, anger, or negativity, it doesn’t just stay there—it eventually shows up in our words and actions.

 

We reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7). If we plant kindness, encouragement, and godly thinking, we’ll grow a harvest of peace and blessing. But if we allow negative or harmful thoughts to take root, we shouldn’t be surprised when they produce discouragement or even destruction.

 

Let’s be honest: the world encourages revenge, fear, and negativity. But we’re called to a higher standard. Philippians 4:8 gives us a clear guide for our thinking: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

 

We don’t have to be prisoners to destructive thoughts. As followers of Christ, we are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). We’ve been given a renewed mind (Romans 12:2), and we can choose to think the way Jesus thinks (Philippians 2:5, 1 Corinthians 2:16).

 

Holding onto anger or plotting to get even doesn’t help us—it hurts us. Malachy McCourt said, it's like drinking poison and expecting someone else to suffer. Instead, let's fill our hearts and minds with the truth of God’s Word. Let’s speak life, hope, and grace.

 

Today, decide to think in a Godly way. Your thoughts matter more than you may realize. And when your thinking lines up with God’s truth, your life will follow.

 

Proverbs 23:7

New King James Version

7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, But his heart is not with you.

 

Luke 6:45

New International Version

45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

 

Proverbs 4:23

New International Version

23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

 

Galatians 6:7

New International Version

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

 

Philippians 4:8

New International Version

8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

 

1 Corinthians 6:19

New King James Version

19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

 

Romans 12:2

New International Version

2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

 

Philippians 2:5

New King James Version

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

 

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.

 

 

 

 

Pastor's Ponderings, June 7, 2025

Let Us Act Politically in a Godly Way

 

If you've been following the news lately, it's impossible to miss the intense political battles happening all around us. Leaders and groups are striving for power, influence, and wealth. It can feel overwhelming at times, but as believers, we have a different perspective. We are called to pray for those in authority, recognizing that ultimately, God is the one who appoints leaders (Psalm 75:6-7, 1 Timothy 2:1-2).

 

When tensions run high, it's easy to fall into negativity—to complain, argue, or speak harshly. But we are reminded in Proverbs 21:1 that God is in control. Our role isn’t to fret or spread bitterness, but to trust that His hand guides the course of history.

 

As followers of Christ, we live in this world but are not of it. Still, that doesn’t mean we should be passive. We should care about those caught in the darkness of a broken system. We can vote, run for office, write letters, march peacefully, or engage in advocacy—all under God’s guidance.

 

We draw strength for these times by fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). While others may put their hope in flawed leaders or empty promises, we call on the living God (Psalm 28:1-2), the only one who can truly bring peace and deliverance.

 

Some may respond to the chaos by retreating, numbing their pain, or acting out in harmful ways. But Scripture calls us to a higher standard: "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).

 

Leaders will rise and fall, but our Lord remains on His throne. We can always approach Him to find grace and help in challenging times. As President Obama always says, "Don't boo, vote!" We can take that a step further: "Don't boo, pray!" Let’s be faithful in both, trusting God to work through us and in our nation.

 

Psalm 75:6-7

New International Version

6 No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt themselves.

7 It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.

 

1 Timothy 2:1-2

New International Version

1 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 

2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

 

Proverbs 21:1

New International Version

21 In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him

 

Hebrews 12:2

New International Version

2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

 

Psalm 28:1-2

New International Version

1 To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit.

2 Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help,

as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place.

 

Ephesians 4:31-32

New International Version

31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 

32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Pastor's Ponderings, May 28, 2025

Let’s Start with God in Mind

 

Stephen Covey’s book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” teaches a powerful principle in its second habit: “Begin with the end in mind.” Cham Tang wrote on the October 20, 2020 Authentic Education, website how he jumped into a career in IT without really knowing what that meant. He admitted he made a mistake because he hadn’t clearly thought through where the road would take him.

 

That is something many of us can relate to. We often take steps without knowing exactly where we’re headed. We pick schools, careers, or relationships with only a rough idea of what they’ll bring. The options are endless, but so are the chances of making a wrong turn.

 

But for those who follow God, the journey doesn’t have to be filled with worry and uncertainty. The Bible tells us that God already knows the plans He has for us—plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). That’s a promise we can hold onto.

 

We don’t need to map out every detail of our lives alone. Psalm 37:23 reminds us that God directs the steps of those who seek Him. And instead of stressing over our big life decisions, Proverbs 16:3 encourages us to commit our plans to the Lord, and He will guide us. Even when our plans change or fall apart, God will establish our path (Proverbs 16:9).

 

From finding the right school, choosing a career, deciding where to live, or meeting the right partner—these things can feel overwhelming. But we serve a God who created the heavens and the earth. He invites us to ask for wisdom, and He promises to give it generously (James 1:5).

 

So, whether you’re starting your day or starting a new chapter in life, make it a habit to begin with God in mind. When we acknowledge Him in all our ways, He will direct our paths (Proverbs 3:6). And He will never let us down.

 

Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

 

Psalm 37:23

New International Version

23 The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;

 

Proverbs 16:3

New International Version

3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

 

Proverbs 16:9

New International Version

9 In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

 

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.

 

Proverbs 3:6

New International Version

6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Pastor's Ponderings, May 22, 2025

God Is Our True Leader

 

It’s no secret—life feels heavy these days. Politics are full of anger, people look down on those who are struggling, science brings more questions than answers, and many businesses are hanging by a thread. With so much confusion and pressure, it’s easy to wonder who’s really in charge. But here’s the truth: God is still leading, and He is our help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

 

When things fall apart around us, our response doesn’t have to be fear or frustration. Instead, we can choose joy. The Colorado Mass Choir sings it perfectly in their song “I Still Have Joy”: “…After all, after everything I've seen, thank God I still have joy.” That kind of joy—the kind that survives the storm—isn’t based on circumstances. It comes from knowing that the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). It’s what keeps us going when life gets rough.

 

What’s in our hearts eventually shows up in our words (Luke 6:45). So, what are we speaking over our lives? Are we repeating what we hear on the news, or are we declaring what God says? Yes, the world has its mess, but we have a message: we will see God’s goodness (Psalm 27:13). We won’t be ruled by fear, because God is with us—and if He is for us, nothing can stand against us (Psalm 23:4, Psalm 56:9).

 

No matter how difficult things get, God is more than enough. He promises to meet every need—big or small (Philippians 4:19). So, let’s move forward with confidence and joy, trusting that God is our leader, and He’s already working all things together for our good. Keep your head up. Keep your heart open. God’s still in control.

 

Psalm 46:1

New International Version

1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

 

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.”

 

Luke 6:45

New International Version

45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

 

Psalm 27:13

New International Version

13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

 

Psalm 23:4

New International Version

4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

 

Psalm 56:9

New International Version

9 Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me.

 

Philippians 4:19

New International Version

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Pastor's Ponderings, May 10, 2025

God Is Our Air Traffic Controller

 

On May 9, 2025, an article by Ryan Grenoble in the Huffington Post reported a concerning event: “Newark Air Traffic Control Radar Goes Down AGAIN.” According to the article, this wasn’t the first time—just a couple of weeks earlier, a 90-second outage left air traffic controllers unable to see, hear, or talk to the aircraft they were responsible for guiding. Imagine being a passenger on one of those planes, completely unaware of what was happening, trusting that someone in a tower had eyes on your flight.

 

It's a reminder of how much we depend on others to guide us safely, especially when we can't see the full picture ourselves. Life works the same way. There are moments when we feel like we’re flying blind—unsure of what’s ahead, disconnected from guidance, and uncertain about where we're headed.

 

But here’s the good news: with God, that will never happen. Those who love and trust Him are never flying solo. God doesn’t have outages or system failures. He never loses track of us, never stops listening, and never stops guiding. His eyes are always on us. He sees the big picture—every twist, every storm, every detour—and He knows exactly how to get us safely to our destination (Jude 24).

 

Even when we feel like we’re spiraling or in free fall, He is there, steady and sure. Psalm 121:3-4 says, “He will not let your foot slip—He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”

 

So, the next time life feels uncertain, remember who your Controller is. He isn’t in a tower that can go dark. He’s a loving God who knows you by name and sees every detail of your journey. In His hands, you're never lost (Jeremiah 1:12, Psalm 121:7-8)—you’re always safely guided (Isaiah 41:10).

 

Jude 24

New Living Translation

24 Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault.

 

Psalm 121:3-4

New International Version

3 He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

 

Jeremiah 1:12

New International Version

12 The Lord said to me, “You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.”

 

Psalm 121:7-8

New International Version

7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life;

8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

 

Isaiah 41:10

New International Version

10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

 

Pastor's Ponderings, May 3, 2025

God Will Never Leave Us or Forsake Us

 Losing someone we love is never easy. Over the past few weeks, our hearts have been heavy as we said goodbye to three beloved family members and a dear friend. In moments like these, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by grief. But even in our sadness, there is comfort in knowing that God is nearby.

 

Psalm 116:15 reminds us, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones." That verse tells us something deeply reassuring: God doesn't overlook our pain. He watches over us and holds every moment—even our hardest goodbyes—with great care and love. He knows us so well that even the number of hairs on our head is accounted for (Luke 12:7), and every tear we cry is noticed and remembered (Psalm 56:8).

 

Sometimes life feels isolating. We might believe we're facing everything alone, that no one sees us or truly cares. But that's simply not true. God is always with us. He sees us. He cares deeply. And He has promised to return one day and bring us into eternal life with Him.

 

Yes, the world can be tough. There's no shortage of challenges, confusion, or heartache. But God hasn’t left us to deal with it all on our own. Galatians 1:4 reminds us that He "rescues us from the present evil age." Even when things look out of control, He is working behind the scenes.

 

We may not always understand why hard things happen. But we can hold onto this truth from Romans 8:28: "All things work together for good to those who love God." That includes the hard, the painful, and the unexpected.

 

God is our constant. He is our quiet companion, our wise guide, and our ever-present helper. He was there when we took our first breath, and He'll be there when we take our last. And through every step in between, He walks beside us.

 

So today, take heart. You're not alone. God sees you, loves you, and will never leave you or forsake you.

 

Psalm 116:15 

Amplified Version

15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones

 

Luke 12:7

New International Version

7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

 

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.

 

Galatians 1:4

New International Version

4 who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,

 

Romans 8:28

New International Version

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.