MESSAGES

“God is Still Good”

Speaker: Rev. Kevin Williams
March 2020

“There Is Still Hope”

Speaker: Pastor Kevin Williams
March 2020

Devotionals

The God of All Comfort

Let’s be honest. Affliction isn’t something any of us go looking for. Whether it’s illness, loss, strained relationships, or just the weight of life pressing in, no one signs up for suffering. And yet, if you’ve walked with the Lord for any length of time, you’ve probably discovered something unexpected: God often does His deepest work in the middle of our hardest seasons.

Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 …
“Blessed (praise) be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

That’s not just a nice sentiment, it’s a lifeline. Paul was not writing from a place of ease or distance. He had been beaten, shipwrecked, misunderstood, and nearly killed for his faith. When he talks about affliction, it’s not something that he had imagined. He’s lived it! And still, in the middle of all that pain, he says: God is the Father of compassion. The God of all comfort.

That’s not just a nice sentiment, it’s a lifeline. Paul was not writing from a place of ease or distance. He had been beaten, shipwrecked, misunderstood, and nearly killed for his faith. When he talks about affliction, it’s not something that he had imagined. He’s lived it! And still, in the middle of all that pain, he says: God is the Father of compassion. The God of all comfort.

That phrase alone is worth sitting with. Not some comfort. Not occasional comfort, but all comfort! Every kind. The quiet reassurance during sleepless nights. The strength to keep going when you’re emotionally drained. The moment someone shares a word that hits you right where you need it. That’s God at work.

But Paul doesn’t stop there. He says that God comforts us so that we can comfort others. In other words, there’s a purpose to the pain. God never wastes our suffering. When you’ve been through something (I mean really been through it) you gain a kind of credibility that no book or sermon can give. You can look someone in the eye and say, “I’ve been there. And I’m still standing, so let me walk with you.”

That doesn’t mean everything gets wrapped up neatly with a bow on top. Some wounds still hurt. Some questions won’t get answers on this side of heaven. But it does mean that even in the mess, God is doing something meaningful. He’s shaping your heart. He’s deepening your faith. He’s preparing you to be the comfort someone else will need.

If you’re walking through a hard season right now, don’t assume God has stepped away. He may be more present than you realize. And if you’ve come out of a season like that, ask God who might need the comfort you once needed. You don’t need all the answers — you just need to show up. What would it look like for you to reach out to someone going through something similar?

There’s something deeply healing about becoming the person you once needed. That’s the beauty of how God works. He turns comfort received into comfort given. He transforms pain into ministry. And in doing so, He brings purpose to things we never thought could be redeemed.

Blessings & Peace!
Pastor

The Bible Still Speaks Today

I n an age of constant change, where trends shift and opinions evolve, many people question whether the Bible is still relevant.Can an ancient book really speak to the challenges of modern life? Psalm 19:7–11 answers with a resounding yes — God’s Word is timeless, powerful, and profoundly relevant to every generation.

David describes Scripture as perfect, trustworthy, and radiant. That it is able to revive the soul,  give wisdom, and bring joy. In this post, we’ll explore how the Bible is not just a historical document, but a living word that continues to guide, correct, and transform lives today.

1. The Bible Revives the Soul (v. 7a)
“The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul.” (NLT)

Life has a way of draining us — whether through personal struggles, disappointments, or simply the weight of daily responsibilities. But God’s Word breathes life into weary hearts. It speaks to our deepest needs, and offers us hope, encouragement, and renewal. Have you ever opened the Bible and found exactly the message you needed in that moment? That’s because Scripture is not outdated; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12), always speaking to the human condition.

2. The Bible Gives Wisdom for Today’s Decisions (v. 7b) “

The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.” (NLT)

It should be of no surprise to you that we live in an age overflowing with information! But information is not the same as wisdom. The world offers countless opinions on how to live, but many of them contradict each other. In contrast, the Bible provides unchanging wisdom that has stood the test of time.

From the handling of relationships to managing finances, from navigating trials to making ethical decisions, Scripture gives us the insight we need. Its principles are not bound to a specific era but apply to every generation. When we seek guidance from God’s Word, we gain clarity in a world filled with so much confusion.

3. The Bible Brings Joy and Clarity (v. 8) 

“The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living.” (NLT)       Many people view the Bible as restrictive, full of rules that limit freedom. But David saw it differently; he saw joy in following God’s ways. Why? Because God’s commands are not meant to burden us, but they are meant to lead us into a life of true fulfillment.

Just as a lighthouse helps sailors navigate safely through storms, Scripture lights our path (Psalm 119:105). It reveals what is good, true, and life-giving. When we follow its guidance, we find peace instead of regret, and joy instead of emptiness.

4. The Bible is More Valuable Than Ever (v. 10)

They are more desirable than gold — than an abundance of pure gold; and sweeter than honey dripping from a honeycomb.” (CSB) People chase after wealth, success, and pleasure, but none of these things can satisfy the soul like God’s Word! David recognized that Scripture is the greatest treasure, and that it is far more valuable than material riches.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to spend more time scrolling through social media (or news) feeds than it is engaging with the Bible. Yet, the wisdom found in Scripture exceeds anything culture has to offer. If we truly believe the Bible still speaks today, then we must prioritize it, not as an afterthought, but as our daily bread.

5. The Bible Warns and Rewards (v. 11)

“They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them.” (NLT) People chase after wealth, success, and pleasure, but none of these things can satisfy the soul like God’s Word! David recognized that Scripture is the greatest treasure, and that it is far more valuable than material riches.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to spend more time scrolling through social media (or news) feeds than it is engaging with the Bible. Yet, the wisdom found in Scripture exceeds anything culture has to offer. If we truly believe the Bible still speaks today, then we must prioritize it, not as an afterthought, but as our daily bread.

Psalm 19:7–11 is a powerful reminder that God’s Word is just as relevant today as it was in David’s time. It revives the soul, gives wisdom, brings joy, and provides clear direction. In a world that is constantly shifting, the Bible remains our steady foundation.

So the question is: Are we listening?

If we believe that the Bible still speaks, then we must read it, meditate on it, and apply it to our lives.

The truth of God’s Testament is timeless! So, let’s allow it to shape us today.

What should you be doing?

1. Trusting in the Bible’s Wisdom – When making decisions, prioritize Scripture over personal feelings or cultural trends.

2. Finding Joy in God’s Commands: Obedience to God isn’t about rules; it’s about discovering the best way to live.

3. Treasuring God’s Word Daily: Just as you wouldn’t go a day without food, you shouldn’t go a day without Scripture.

Blessings & Peace!
Pastor

The Lord’s Saving Power

In our darkest moments, when hope seems lost and circumstances feel unchangeable, God’s power shines the brightest. Acts 16:25-31 recounts a powerful scene — Paul and Silas, imprisoned for their faith, choose to worship instead of despair. What happens next is nothing short of miraculous: an earthquake shakes the foundations, prison doors fly open, and a desperate jailer encounters the saving grace of Jesus.

This passage is more than a historical event—it’s a reminder that no situation is beyond God’s reach. His power not only delivers but transforms lives. In this post, we’ll explore how the Lord’s saving power is at work even today, bringing freedom to the bound and hope to the hopeless.

Paul and Silas were in Philippi, a Roman colony, where they had been preaching the gospel. After casting a spirit out of a slave girl, they were falsely accused, beaten, and thrown into prison without a trial (Acts 16:16-24). Despite their suffering, they responded with worship, leading to a miraculous event that not only freed them but also led to the salvation of the jailer and his household.

1. Worshiping while in Chains (v. 25)

Paul and Silas had been arrested, beaten, and thrown into prison in Philippi for casting a demon out of a slave girl (Acts 16:16-24). Their situation was bleak because they were in the inner prison (more likely a dark and filthy dungeon, with their feet fastened in stocks, which would have made them unbearably uncomfortable).

Yet, instead of giving up hope, they chose to pray and sing songs (hymns) to God. Not in a subdued or quiet way; but in a way that was loud enough for the other prisoners to hear! Their response to their hardship was a testimony in itself, by showing the other prisoners (and us) that true joy in Christ is not dependent on circumstances!

2. A Divine Intervention (v. 26)

Suddenly, a great earthquake shook the prison, opening all the doors and loosing the prisoners’ chains. This was not a coincidence but a supernatural event orchestrated by God. Deliverance does not always come in the way we expect, and (like Paul and Silas) when (or how) God acts, we have to trust Him anyhow!

3. The Jailer’s Despair and Question (vv. 27-30)

The jailer woke up and saw the doors open. Fearing that the prisoners had escaped, he drew his sword to kill himself — because a Roman jailer would have been held personally accountable for any escaped prisoners) and likely executed.

But Paul cried out, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” They could have escaped, but Paul and Silas valued the jailer’s soul more than their freedom, and stayed. The jailer was so overwhelmed that he fell trembling before them and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” He had just witnessed something miraculous! But it was the integrity and peace of Paul and Silas that truly moved him. The power of their message was confirmed by their actions.

4. Believe and Be Saved (v. 31)

Paul and Silas answered, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household.” Salvation was not through works, status, or religious rituals but through faith in Jesus Christ.

This invitation was not just to the jailer, but to his entire household — which says to us that the Gospel has the power to transform whole families and communities!

What are some key takeaways for your life?

1. Worship in (and through) Your Trials: Like Paul and Silas, choose faith over fear and worship the Lord, even in the midst of difficulty.

2. Trust God’s Deliverance: Even when life shakes you to your core, God is still in control and can use your hardships for His glory.

3. Live Out Your Faith: Because your actions and integrity can lead others to Christ.

4. Be Ready to Share the Gospel: Because people around you just may be searching for answers. So, you have to be ready to point them to Jesus!

If you didn’t get anything out of this passage … know that it is a powerful reminder that: God is still in the business of saving lives, breaking chains, and bringing people to Christ!

Blessings & Peace!
Pastor

The Strength to Climb

Life often feels like an uphill climb — challenging, exhausting, and at times, overwhelming. We face seasons where our strength fails, our endurance wanes, and we wonder if we have what it takes to keep going. Yet, in Isaiah 40:27–31, we find a powerful promise: those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will rise above their struggles, run without weariness, and walk without fainting.

The Israelites, during their captivity in Babylon, struggled with doubt, discouragement, and spiritual amnesia. They questioned God’s faithfulness, they had forgotten about His mighty works, and they had lost hope in His promises. The Prophet Isaiah in chapter 40 verses 27-31 speaks directly to their situation, by reminding them of three key truths:

1. The Israelites Did Not Recognize God’s Character (v. 27-28)

The exiles believed that God had forgotten them, saying, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God.” This reflected their limited understanding of God’s character. They saw their suffering and assumed that God was (and will continue to be) absent. However, Isaiah rebuked that mindset, by declaring that God is the everlasting Creator! He’s unchanging, all- powerful, and sovereign over all. And unlike us, He never grows tired or weary, and His wisdom is beyond human comprehension.

2. The Israelites Did Not Remember Their Capability Through God’s Strength (v. 29-30)

Isaiah emphasized that God gives strength to the weary and increases power to the weak. The Israelites may have felt powerless in captivity, they may have forgotten that their strength had always come from the Lord. And lastly, they needed to remember that even the strongest individuals (represented by youths) will eventually weaken, but divine strength is unlimited.

3. The Israelites Did Not Retain Their Hope (v. 31)

Isaiah presented a promise: “They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength.” The phrase “wait for the LORD” (or “wait on the LORD”; or “hope in the Lord”) implies trust, patience, and expectation. The Israelites, in exile, struggled to believe that restoration would come. Yet, Isaiah assured them that those who trust in God will be renewed — they WILL soar, run, and walk without growing weary.

What are you being encouraged to do?

1. You Better RECOGNIZE: In difficult seasons, you must remind yourself that God’s silence does not mean His absence. When you don’t see immediate answers, you need to trust His unchanging nature — He is always watching, always working, and never weary.

2. Don’t let your current situation define what you’re capable of achieving: When you rely on your own strength, you will burn out. But when you acknowledge your weakness and depend on God, He renews you. Your capabilities are not determined by your circumstances but by your
connection to God.

3. Put your hope in the Lord: Hope in God is what sustains you. When you feel stuck or exhausted, you must choose to trust that He is working in ways you cannot see. Your waiting is not wasted! Know that God is strengthening you in the process.

As long as we are waiting upon the Lord, and as long as we have His strength, then we will not grow weary and we will not faint. This passage serves as a powerful encouragement for us to trust in God’s sustaining power rather than our own strength.

Blessings & Peace!
Pastor

Lifting the Limits of Your Faith

Have you ever felt like your faith was stuck — like no matter how much you pray or believe, things just don’t seem to change? In Mark 6:1-6, we see Jesus returning to His hometown, only to be met with doubt and unbelief. The people who should have known Him best limited what He could do in their lives because of their lack of faith.

Could we be doing the same today? Are there ways we unknowingly place limits on God’s power in our lives? In this post, we’ll explore how to break free from doubt, strengthen our trust in Christ, and experience the fullness of His work in and through us.

As Mark 6:1-6 opens, we witness Jesus returning to His hometown, Nazareth, accompanied by His disciples. He began teaching in the synagogue on the Sabbath, and the people were astonished by His wisdom and the miracles that He performed. However, their amazement quickly turned to skepticism when they recognized Jesus as the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon. Their familiarity with Jesus and His family led them to doubt His authority and divine mission. This reaction highlights a common human tendency to underestimate those we think we know well.

Jesus addressed this by stating that a prophet (a messenger of God) is honored everywhere except in his own hometown, among his relatives, and in his own house. This saying emphasizes the difficulty that prophets face in being accepted by those closest to them, who may struggle to see beyond the ordinary aspects of their lives.

Due to their lack of faith, Jesus was unable to perform many miracles in Nazareth, except for healing a few sick people. This limitation was not due to a lack of power on Jesus’ part, but rather the people’s unwillingness to believe. Jesus was amazed at their unbelief. But despite this, He continued His ministry, teaching in the surrounding villages.

What should I do to lift the limit of my faith?

1. Overcome Familiarity: Just as the people of Nazareth struggled to see Jesus for who He truly was, we might
sometimes take for granted or underestimate those closest to us. It’s essential to remain open and appreciative of the unique gifts and talents of those around us.

2. Put my Faith into Action: Mark 6:1-6 highlights the importance of faith. The people’s unbelief limited what Jesus could do for them. In our lives, maintaining faith, even in difficult situations, can open doors to possibilities and miracles we might not otherwise experience.

3. Be Persistent in my Purpose: Jesus continued his work despite rejection. This teaches us to stay committed to our purpose, even when faced with doubt or criticism from others. Persistence and dedication are crucial, especially when our efforts are not immediately recognized or
appreciated.

4. Handle Rejection: Jesus’ reaction to rejection in His hometown is an example of grace under pressure. He didn’t retaliate or become discouraged. Instead, he acknowledged the reality and continued his mission. When we face rejection, it’s important to remain composed and keep
moving forward.

5. Self-Reflection: The story also prompts us to reflect on our own beliefs and biases. Are there areas in our lives where
familiarity or preconceived notions prevent us from recognizing someone’s true potential or value? Being mindful of this can help us become more open-hearted and supportive.

By applying these lessons, we can navigate our own experiences with faith, persistence, and a deeper appreciation for the people in
our lives.

Lastly, it’s important to remember that lifting the limits of our faith is not about achieving perfection or earning God’s love. It’s about
growing in our relationship with God and allowing His love to transform us from the inside out.

Ultimately, what it means to lift the limits of our Christian faith is a personal journey that unfolds over time. It involves a
willingness to learn, grow, and trust in God’s guidance as we seek to live a life that is pleasing to him.

Blessings & Peace!
Pastor