Pastor's Ponderings, July 20, 2026

Smile, My Friend—It's Sunrise

 

One of Robin Williams' final on-screen lines in Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (2014) was, "Smile, my boy. It's sunrise." Those simple words carry a beautiful reminder: no matter how dark the night has been, the sun always rises.

 

Life gives us plenty of reasons to feel discouraged. Every day we hear about conflict, hardship, injustice, and uncertainty. It's easy to become overwhelmed by negative news and the problems around us. But God invites us to lift our eyes and remember that "weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning" (Psalm 30:5).

 

The Bible reminds us that even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we are only passing through. We are not meant to live there. God walks beside us, comforts us, and gives us the strength to keep moving forward (Psalm 23:4). We don't have to be afraid because He is always with us.

 

Jesus has prepared an eternal home for us, but He has also given us hope and purpose right here and now. The Bible says we are already seated with Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). Our identity isn't determined by the troubles we face but by the Savior who walks with us.

 

It's also important not to become consumed with the actions of those who do evil. Their influence is temporary (Psalm 37:1-2), but God's Kingdom is eternal. We already know how the story ends—God wins, and those who trust in Him will share in His victory.

 

When life's battles seem overwhelming, God doesn't leave us to fight alone. His Word promises that when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord raises a standard against him (Isaiah 59:19). God is still our defender, our protector, and our refuge.

 

So don't let fear have the final word. Lift up your tired hands and don't lose heart (Hebrews 12:12). Keep your eyes on Jesus, the One who began your faith and will faithfully bring it to completion (Hebrews 12:2). Remember that through Him, you are more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37).

 

No matter what yesterday looked like, today is a new sunrise. You can smile because God's joy is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10), His presence is your peace, and through Christ, you can face whatever lies ahead.

So, smile, my friend—it's sunrise.

 

Psalm 30:5

New International Version

5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.

 

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.

 

Ephesians 2:6

New International Version

6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,

 

Psalm 37:1, 2

New International Version

1 Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;

2 for like the grass they will soon wither,

 

Isaiah 59:19

New King James Version

19 So shall they fear The name of the Lord from the west, And His glory from the rising of the sun; When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him

 

Hebrews 12:12

New King James Version

12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees,

 

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.

 

Romans 8:37

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

 

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.” 

Pastor's Ponderings, July 12, 2026

 God Is Our Very Present Help in Troubling Times

 

It can feel like every time we turn on the news; we hear about another crisis. Wars continue to rage, innocent lives are being lost, and conflicts around the world seem to grow more dangerous each day. Families are grieving, nations are divided, and uncertainty has become a part of daily life. Closer to home, we also face our own struggles. Rising prices, health concerns, broken relationships, violence, and uncertainty about the future can leave many people feeling anxious and overwhelmed.

 

So, what should those who trust in God do during times like these? The Bible gives us a clear answer. Instead of allowing fear to take over, God tells us not to become consumed by the actions of those who do evil, because their power is only temporary (Psalm 37:1-2). Rather, we are to keep our eyes fixed on Him. When we focus our minds on the Lord, He promises to give us His perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3).

 

Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Even when situations seem beyond our control, nothing is beyond His. We may feel weak at times, but God reminds us that we can do all things through Christ, who gives us strength (Philippians 4:13). The enemy wants us to live in fear. He wants us to believe that the problems surrounding us are greater than the God who lives within us. But throughout Scripture, we see ordinary people who chose faith over fear.

 

Queen Esther is one such example. Faced with the possibility of death, she courageously approached the king to save her people, saying, "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16). Her confidence was not in herself but in God's purpose. That same confidence can be ours today. We can choose to have hearts that are steadfast, refusing to be tossed back and forth by every frightening headline or discouraging report. Like David, we can believe that we will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living (Psalm 27:13).

 

The news may try to fill us with fear, confusion, and hopelessness, but God's Word fills us with faith, peace, and hope. We can boldly declare, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31). No matter what is happening in our nation or around the world, God is still on His throne. 

 

He controls the times and the seasons, and He is still working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). So, let us not live in fear. Let us live in faith, trusting that our God is—and always will be—a very present help in troubling times.

 

Psalm 37:1, 2

New International Version

1 Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;

2 for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.

 

Isaiah 26:3

New King James Version

3 You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You,

Because he trusts in You.

 

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.

 

Philippians 4:13

New International Version

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

 

Esther 4:16

New International Version

16 “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”

 

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.

 

Romans 8:31

New International Version

31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

 

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.

 

Pastor's Ponderings, June 28, 2026

 Let Us Help, Not Hurt Others

 

It seems like everywhere we turn; we hear harsh words, angry voices, and constant criticism. Social media, television, and even everyday conversations are often filled with insults, arguments, and put-downs. In today's world, kindness, compassion, and encouraging others can sometimes seem old-fashioned. Too often, the loudest and most aggressive voices get the most attention.

 

More than 350 years ago, the English philosopher Thomas Hobbes observed that without moral boundaries, life would become "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." Sadly, we still see evidence of that today. Many people believe the way to get ahead is by putting someone else down, intimidating others, or looking out only for themselves. But God calls us to live differently.

 

God doesn't want us to be controlled by anger, selfishness, or the desire to hurt others. Instead, He wants us to experience the joy that comes from living His way. The Bible tells us, "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). It also reminds us that many of our conflicts begin in our own hearts (James 4:1). That's why God invites us to leave behind our old way of living and put on a new nature—one that reflects His character (Ephesians 4:22-24).

 

Rather than trying to dominate, criticize, or discourage people, God wants us to show His love in the way we live. He calls us to display the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Therefore, this week, let's make a simple decision. When we're tempted to hurt someone with our words, let's choose to encourage them instead. When we could respond with sarcasm, let's offer kindness. 

 

When we're tempted to put ourselves first, let's look for ways to help someone else succeed. The world has seen enough people tearing each other down. It needs people who will build others up. As followers of Christ, let's be that light. Through our words, our actions, and our love, we can show others that there is a better way to live—a life that reflects the heart of God.

 

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.”

 

James 4:1

New International Version

1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?

 

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.

 

Galatians 5:22-23

New International Version

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 
23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

 

Pastor's Ponderings, June 22, 2026

Let Us Speak Healing Words In Amongst Hurting People

 

The Bible tells us to speak words that build each other up according to what they need (Ephesians 4:29).  Sadly, we live in a world where bullying has become a sport, where hurting others seems like good fun and intimidation in all areas is expected. Leaders curse each other and lie, operatives curse each other on behalf of said leaders, and the strong search for the weak so that they can benefit from their pain.

 

One of the top 10 bestselling motivational books of all time was, “Looking out for Number #1” written by Robert Ringer who also wrote “Winning Through Intimidation.”  This mentality emphasis me first and anyone else next.  Hurt others before they hurt you. But the Bible tells us that a good name and favor is better than the riches that many seek (Proverbs 22:).  

 

The Bible also says that gentle words are to be preferred over harsh words (Proverbs 15:1).  A word spoken at the right time is like apples of gold in a silver setting (Proverbs 25:11). Rather than being warriors and attacking others, we should be people who practice self-control (Proverbs 16:32). It may be easy to retaliate against others because of how they are perceived to have treated us, but God tells us to be still and that He would fight your battles (Exodus 14:14).

 

Let us just pray for our enemies that they would come to know that God is more than enough for their inner conflicts, evil, and struggles. He can give them the peace that they need when hurting others. Despite how great and powerful people are treating others, let us remember that our God is in charge and He will take care of our enemies.  

Ephesians 4:29

New International Version

29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

 

Proverbs 22:1

New International Version

22 A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

 

Proverbs 15:1

New International Version

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

 

Proverbs 25:11

New King James Version

11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold In settings of silver.

 

Proverbs 16:32

New International Version

32 Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.

 

Exodus 14:14

New International Version

14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

 

Pastor's Ponderings, June 15, 2026

Fear Not

 

Last week in Pastor's Ponderings, we talked about the Bible's encouragement, "Do Not Be Afraid." This week, let's continue that conversation because many people are facing fears and uncertainties every day. It's easy to understand why. We see troubling events in our nation and around the world. Government programs and protections are changing. Jobs are being cut. Services that many families depend on are being reduced. Sometimes it seems like decisions are being made that benefit a few while making life harder for many others. These realities can leave people feeling anxious about the future.

 

Beyond human decisions, we also face challenges that are completely outside our control. Hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters remind us how quickly life can change. We have seen pandemics spread across the globe and diseases that continue to challenge medical experts. When we look at everything happening around us, it can be tempting to live in fear.

 

But God's Word points us in a different direction. The Bible reminds us not to put our ultimate trust in people because human beings are limited and imperfect (Psalm 146:3-4). Instead, we are called to place our confidence in God. He knows our future and has good plans for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). No matter how difficult the journey may become, God promises that He will never leave us or abandon us.

 

Jesus taught that we should not fear those who can only affect our physical lives (Matthew 10:28). Rather, we should stand in awe of God, who has all power and authority. He can keep us from falling and will one day present us before His presence with great joy (Jude 24-25).

God wants us to walk by faith, trusting that He will care for us. The enemy would like us to live in fear, worry, and despair, but God calls us to confidence and hope. As the Apostle Paul declared, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31).

 

Whatever challenges you may be facing today, remember this: you do not have to live in fear. God is with you. He is faithful. He is still in control. So, lift your head, trust in the Lord, and fear not. God is on your side.

 

Psalm 146:3, 4 

New International Version

3 Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.

4 When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.

 

Jeremiah 29:11

King James Version

11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

 

Matthew 10:28

New International Version

28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

 

Jude 24-25

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— 

25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

 

Romans 8:31
New International Version

31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 

Pastor's Ponderings, June 7, 2026

Do Not Be Afraid

 

Fear seems to be everywhere these days. Turn on the news, scroll through social media, or listen to everyday conversations, and you'll hear people worried about the economy, health, safety, the future, and countless other concerns. Yet throughout the Bible, God repeatedly tells His people, "Do not be afraid."

In fact, some form of that phrase appears dozens of times in Scripture. That should remind us of something important: God never intended for His children to live in fear. Jesus said, "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom" (Luke 12:32). What an amazing promise! God is not offering us a temporary solution or a fragile earthly kingdom that rises and falls with human leaders. He is giving us a place in His eternal kingdom.

Because we belong to God's kingdom, we don't have to see ourselves as powerless victims of whatever happens around us. God has given His people authority, purpose, and the privilege of living under His care. The enemy would like us to believe that we are weak, helpless, and constantly at the mercy of circumstances. But God's Word tells a different story. Jesus gave His followers authority over the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19). Through Him, we can stand firm against fear, temptation, and discouragement. The devil may try to intimidate us, but he cannot take away what God has promised us.

The world often tells us that we should be afraid—that danger is around every corner and that our future is uncertain. But our confidence is not based on what we see around us. It is based on who God is. Our lives are built on the solid foundation of Christ, and that foundation cannot be shaken. That doesn't mean life will always be easy. There will be difficult days. We will face challenges, disappointments, and situations that test our faith. But even in those moments, God promises to be with us. The Bible says that He always leads us in triumph through Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14).

So, when fear tries to take hold, remember who you are and whose you are. You are loved by God, protected by His presence, and held securely in His hands. Instead of walking by fear, let us walk by faith. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, let us focus on the One who holds our future. No matter what challenges come our way, we can face them with confidence because God is on our side. And when God is for us, there is no reason to be afraid.

Luke 12:32

New International Version

32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.

 

Luke 10:19

New International Version

19 I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.

 

2 Corinthians 2:14

New King James Version

14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 

Pastor's Ponderings, May 29, 2026

David and Goliath

 

At times, life can feel like we’re standing face-to-face with giants. Problems seem bigger than us, stronger than us, and impossible to defeat. The world often tells us we’ve already lost—that we’ll never overcome the challenges in front of us.

 

The Bible gives us a powerful reminder that giants do fall. David was just a young shepherd when he arrived at the battlefield and heard the giant Goliath mocking Israel and terrifying the army. Goliath was experienced, heavily armed, and trained for war since he was young. He even had a shield bearer walking ahead of him. From a human point of view, David didn’t stand a chance.

 

But David saw the situation differently. He believed God was greater than the giant. Armed with only a sling and five smooth stones, David stepped forward in faith. One stone struck Goliath in the forehead, and the giant came crashing down (1 Samuel 17:50–51).

 

Today, many of us are facing our own “Goliaths.” For some, it’s financial struggles. For others, it is sickness, anxiety, depression, addiction, broken relationships, or difficult people. These challenges stand in front of us like giants, trying to intimidate us and convince us to give up.

 

But just like David, we must remember who is on our side. We serve a God who can do the impossible (Mark 10:27). The Bible says, “Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). That means our problems are not greater than our God.

 

Through Christ, we have strength to face every battle (Philippians 4:13). When God is for us, no obstacle, no fear, and no enemy can ultimately defeat us (Romans 8:31). So don’t run from your giants. Don’t let fear control your future. Stand in faith, trust God, and believe that the same God who helped David is still helping His people today.

 

Your giant may be big—but God is bigger.

 

1 Samuel 17:50, 51

New International Version 

50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

51 David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s sword and drew it from the sheath. After he killed him, he cut off his head with the sword.

 

Mark 10:27

New International Version

27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

 

1 John 4:4

New International Version

4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

 

Philippians 4:13

New International Version

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

 

Romans 8:31

New International Version

31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?