Refreshing the Hearts of the Saints

One of the ways in which Paul greets his old friend Philemon is by saying that he has refreshed the hearts of the saints (verse 7).  Prior to this verse Paul explains how Philemon has refreshed the hearts of the saints.  Paul has heard of his love for God and for other believers.  He has heard of his faith toward Christ.  He has also heard that Philemon has been sharing his faith and Paul prays that his sharing would be effective.

I pray that these things can be said of us as God’s people at Grace Community Church.  Think today, how you might refresh the hearts of the saints by godly obedience.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Brian

A Word for the Day

At Grace Community Church we care about what Scripture teaches.  The Bible calls this “sound doctrine”.  We care because sound doctrine is the difference between a vibrant strong faith fixed on Christ verses an imaginary faith based on an imaginary god.

Three times in the first two chapters of Titus Paul speaks about sound doctrine:

Titus 1:9 (ESV)

He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

Titus 2:1 (ESV)

But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.

Titus 2:10 (ESV)

not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior.

God cares very much about truth and sound doctrine.  We also must care very much about these same things.

God Bless,

Pastor Brian

A Word for the Day

The Christian life is a life of steadfastness and consistency.  It is a life of remaining true in the midst of adversity and suffering.  It’s also a life of remaining faithful to the Lord and to what He teaches in the Bible.  It’s a marathon not a sprint.

Continuing in what you have learned was Paul’s advice to Timothy.  Paul was referring to Timothy’s knowledge of the Holy Scripture.  The Bible’s teachings are what will make us wise for salvation.  They are what will train us in righteousness.  And the Bible is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.

2 Tim. 3:14 (ESV)

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it

We too must listen to Paul’s advice to Timothy and continue consistently in the truth.

Pastor Brian

A Word for the Day

Did you know that as a Christian, you are a soldier in battle?  Everyday, we’re called to engage the enemy and to rescue captives as we lift the banner of Christ high for the world to see.  We have a very high calling and vital responsibilities.

The sad reality is that most Christians are just too busy to step onto the battle field.  Most are so preoccupied with the activities of this world that eternal activities go undone or even unnoticed.  Are there activities of this world that keep you from engaging in the important eternal activities?

Look with me at Paul’s advice to young Timothy:

2 Tim. 2:4 (ESV)

No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.

Paul reminds Timothy to steer clear of civilian pursuits that will entangle him, but instead focus on pleasing Jesus Christ who has enlisted him in the battle.  Our calling is to focus our efforts on spiritual eternal activities as we live in this world.

Beloved, may we too follow Paul’s advice.

Pastor Brian