Pastor's Pondering, March 15, 2026

Let Us Keep Our Eyes on the Prize 

Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar once said, “If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time.” It’s a simple reminder that without a clear goal, it’s easy to drift through life.

 

So, what are you aiming for today? Many people spend time thinking about five-year or ten-year plans—considering their interests, their resources, and the opportunities ahead. Planning can be helpful. But as believers, our first step isn’t just planning our own goals—it’s seeking God’s direction.

 

The Bible encourages us to seek the face of God (Psalm 27:8) and ask Him for wisdom. Why? Because God already knows the plans He has for us. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that His plans are good and that He wants to lead us toward a hopeful future. While we may not always know what our next step should be, God promises to guide us and never leave us.

 

In the book of Habakkuk, God says, “Write the vision and make it plain” (Habakkuk 2:2). In other words, when God shows us the path, we should take it seriously. Pay attention. Write it down. Live it out. God wants us to listen to His voice and walk in the purpose He created for us.

 

Of course, the enemy would love to distract us. He wants us discouraged, confused, and focused on everything except God’s plan. If he can keep us busy with disappointment and doubt, we might never reach the purpose God has for our lives. But God reminds us that our lives matter. Before Jeremiah was even born, God said He already knew him. The same is true for us. We were carefully created—fearfully and wonderfully made.

 

That’s why the apostle Paul said he pressed forward toward the prize in Christ (Philippians 3:13–14). Our greatest goal isn’t fame, wealth, or success by the world’s standards. Our true prize is living the life God designed for us and growing closer to Christ along the way.

 

So let’s stay focused.

Let’s listen for God’s direction.

And let’s keep our eyes on the prize He has set before us.

 

Psalm 27:8

New International Version

8 My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, Lord, I will seek.

 

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.

 

Habakkuk 2:2

New International Version

2 Then the Lord replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.

 

Philippians 3:13, 14

New International Version

13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,

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

 

Pastor's Ponderings, March 8, 2026

Our God Is Our Mighty Helper

 

Every day we hear troubling news about what’s happening in the world. Nations are in conflict, leaders are making decisions that seem to create more tension instead of peace, and many people feel uncertain about the future. It can leave us wondering: Who really knows what to do?

 

The Bible reminds us that times like these will come. Scripture says people will talk about “peace and safety,” but sudden trouble may still appear (1 Thessalonians 5:2–3). When the world feels unstable, we don’t have to panic—we can turn to God.

 

God invites us to come to Him when we need help. The Bible says that if we lack wisdom, we can simply ask Him, and He will give it generously (James 1:5). Jesus also promised that the Spirit of Truth would guide us into truth and help us understand what lies ahead (John 16:13).

 

So, when we feel unsure, we can trust the Lord with all our hearts instead of depending only on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). God is the source of true wisdom, knowledge, and understanding (Proverbs 2:6). While the world often looks to experts, politicians, scholars, or famous leaders for answers, our ultimate hope must be in God. 

 

The songwriter Aaron Jeoffrey captured this truth beautifully in the song “I Go to the Rock.” One line says:

“I go to the Rock of my salvation.
I go to the stone that the builders rejected.
When the earth all around me is sinking sand,
On Christ the solid rock I stand.”

 

Those words remind us where our real security comes from. Today, let’s make a clear choice. Instead of relying only on the world’s advice, let’s turn to Christ—the One who is righteous, true, and holy. In Him we find strength, peace, and hope that cannot be shaken. When life feels uncertain and the world seems unstable, remember this simple truth: God is our mighty helper.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3

New International Version

2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 

3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

 

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.

 

John 16:13

New International Version

13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

 

Proverbs 3:5

New International Version

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding

 

Proverbs 2:6

New International Version

6 For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding

Pastor's Ponderings, March 1, 2026

No Matter What You See or Hear, Do Not Fear

 

Turn on the news or scroll through social media for five minutes and it can feel overwhelming. Wars. Rumors of wars. Economic uncertainty. Natural disasters. Political tension. It’s enough to make anyone anxious.

 

In the Bible, when the disciples asked Jesus about the end times, He told them something surprising: “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed” (Matthew 24:6). In other words, don’t panic. These things would happen—but they weren’t a reason to lose hope.

 

So how should we live in uncertain times? Should we constantly worry?

Should we hoard supplies? Should we prepare for the worst and expect everything to fall apart? The Bible gives us a different response. Repeatedly, Scripture tells us, “Do not be afraid.” God doesn’t want us living in fear. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). That means clear thinking instead of panic. Faith instead of frenzy.

 

Psalm 91 reminds us that our real safety isn’t found in a bunker—it’s found in dwelling “in the secret place of the Most High.” And Philippians 4:19 assures us that God will supply all our needs. That doesn’t mean we act irresponsibly; it means we don’t live driven by fear.

 

The enemy would love nothing more than for us to trust our anxiety instead of trusting God. He wants us leaning only on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5), imagining worst-case scenarios, and forgetting who truly holds the future.

 

But here’s the truth: God is still sustaining the world by the power of His word. Nothing happens outside of His knowledge. The end will not come one moment sooner—or later—than He allows. So, no matter what headlines you see or rumors you hear, you don’t have to be afraid. God is still in control. God is still providing. God is still faithful.

 

And that is reason enough to live with peace instead of fear.

 

Matthew 24:6

New International Version

6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.

 

2 Timothy 1:7

New King James Version

7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

 

Psalm 91:1

New International Version

1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

 

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

 

Proverbs 3:5

New International Version

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

Pastor's Ponderings, February 21, 2026

Choose for Yourselves This Day Whom You Will Serve

 

Life is full of choices. Some seem small—what to eat, where to go, what to say. Others are much bigger and shape the direction of our entire lives. The Bible gives us powerful reminders about how important those choices really are.

 

In the book of Numbers, we read about Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. They were leaders among the people of Israel, but they chose to rebel against Moses, the man God had appointed to lead them. God warned the people to step away from them. Then, in a dramatic moment, the ground opened and swallowed them, and everything connected to their rebellion (Numbers 16:31–33). It was a tragic picture of what can happen when pride and poor choices take the lead.

 

We may not see the ground opening today, but we do see the consequences of bad decisions all around us. Talented people with bright futures sometimes fall because of destructive relationships, substance abuse, greed, or simply ignoring wise counsel. Often, there were voices telling them to slow down, turn around, and choose a better path. Sadly, there are also voices in this world that profit from people’s destruction. As Jesus said, the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).

 

The truth is, every one of us needs guidance. Life can be confusing. Job said our days can be “few and full of trouble.” But here’s the encouraging part: God doesn’t leave us to figure it out alone. James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we can ask God—and He will give it generously. God is not trying to mislead us. He promises that when we listen, we will hear His direction, saying, “This is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21). His plans for us are filled with hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

 

So today, the same choice still stands before us. God says, “Choose life… choose blessing” (Deuteronomy 30:19). Joshua put it plainly: “Choose this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15).

 

Every day, in big ways and small ways, we are choosing. Are we going to follow the crowd, our impulses, and the loudest voices around us? Or will we choose to follow the living God, who leads us toward life, peace, and lasting hope? Let’s choose wisely. Let’s choose life. Let’s choose God.

 

Numbers 16:31-33

New International Version

31 As soon as he finished saying all this, the ground under them split apart

32 and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households, and all those associated with Korah, together with their possessions.

33 They went down alive into the realm of the dead, with everything they owned; the earth closed over them, and they perished and were gone from the community

 

John 10:10

New International Version

10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

 

Job 14:14

New International Version

14 “Mortals, born of woman, are of few days and full of trouble.

 

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

 

Isaiah 30:21

New International Version

21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

 

Jeremiah 29:11

Amplified Bible

11 For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

 

Deuteronomy 30:19

New International Version

19 This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live

 

Joshua 24:15

New International Version

15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

Pastor's Ponderings, February 13, 2026

God’s Word Keeps, Sustains and Empowers Us

 

What does the Bible really mean to you? Is it just an old book filled with stories people made up long ago? Or is it something more—something alive and powerful for your life right now?

 

The Bible clearly tells us what it is. It says that all Scripture is breathed out by God and is useful for teaching, correcting, and training us so we can be fully prepared for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17). In other words, God gave us His Word so we can live well and live right.

 

Jesus made it even clearer. He said we don’t live by bread alone but by every word that comes from God (Matthew 4:4). Think about that. Food keeps our bodies alive, but God’s Word keeps our souls alive. Jesus also said His words are Spirit and life (John 6:63). They bring strength, hope, and direction.

 

And He came so we could have life—real, abundant life (John 10:10). This is important because there is always a voice trying to convince us otherwise. The enemy whispers that God isn’t real, that the Bible doesn’t matter, and that we can live however we want without consequences. Those lies are everywhere—in conversations, online, even in our own thoughts.

 

But God’s Word tells the truth. It brings life and health to those who receive it (Proverbs 4:20–22). It is living and active, able to see deep inside us and reveal what’s really going on in our hearts (Hebrews 4:12). It doesn’t just inform us—it transforms us. While the world spreads confusion, deception, and foolish advice, God offers wisdom, understanding, and power. His Word steadies us when everything else feels uncertain.

 

So, what should we do? Welcome His Word. Read it. Speak it. Live it. Joshua 1:8 teaches that when we keep God’s Word before us and obey it, we will prosper and find true success. God’s Word will keep you. It will sustain you and it will empower you to live the life He created you to live.

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17

New International Version

16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 

17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

Matthew 4:4

New International Version

4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

 

John 6:63

New International Version

63 The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.

 

John 10:10

New King James Version

10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

 

Proverbs 4:20-22

New International Version

20 My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.

21 Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;

22 for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.

 

Hebrews 4:12

New International Version

12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

 

Joshua 1:8

New International Version

8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

Pastor's Ponderings, February 5, 2026

Our Friend In High Places

 

In 2025, Zach Williams released a song called “Friend in High Places.” One line stands out: “The Savior stepped in, saw the worst of my sin and just erased it. Guess you could say I’ve got a friend in high places.” That idea connects with how our world works. People often say they got ahead through hard work, talent, or a little luck—but many times there was also someone behind the scenes. Someone who opened doors, made calls, or offered support when it mattered most.

 

Those of us who love the Lord can say the same—but our connection is far greater. We truly have a Friend in high places. The Bible tells us that because of God’s grace, we’ve been seated with Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6–7). That means we’re not facing life alone or from a position of weakness. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). The greater One is with us—going before us, standing beside us, watching our backs, and living within us (1 John 4:4).

 

God isn’t distant or detached. He’s our helper and our friend—the One who loved us enough to give His life for us. And if God was willing to give us His Son, we can trust that He will also give us everything we truly need (Romans 8:32). While the world brags about who they know and who’s backing them, we can quietly and confidently say we serve the true and living God. He’s the One who holds the universe together, promises to live among His people (2 Corinthians 6:16), and lovingly shepherds us through life (Psalm 23:1).

 

So when others scramble to find people, places, or things to lean on in hard times, we can stand firm and say: “What a friend we have in Jesus… What a privilege it is to carry everything to God in prayer.” Let’s never forget—no matter what we face, we have a Friend in high places.

 

Ephesians 2:6-7

New International Version

6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus

 

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?

 

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.

 

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?

 

2 Corinthians 6:16

New International Version

16 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people

Psalm 23:1

New International Version

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing

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.