Devotions with Pastor Bill Ritchey

A lot of people seem to be afraid of a lot of things these days, and this leads many to make poor choices. At some point our faith becomes placed in worldly stuff – people, places, and things. Even believers frequently fall into the same errors of thinking. I must admit I have struggled with this myself.
Before coming into a saving relationship with my Lord Jesus Christ, fear led me into many bad choices that manifested in addictive and compulsive behaviors, which ultimately led me to suicidal thinking. I was sleeping in a dirt-floor garage and was out looking for something to hang myself with when the Holy Spirit intervened.
Job tells us in 28:28, “And He [our Creator] said to man ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”
My process of turning from evil began that day. That is when I began to walk by faith, even though I did not hear the gospel for over 6 months. When I did accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord it was outside of church, and then I was led into a church setting where I was baptized and discipled.
The blessings that have followed in my life have been the result of obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The times I have attempted to take control have brought me chastisement and correction, but these have been some of the best lessons in my life. Not pleasant, but very much appreciated in hindsight.
The process continues today. Thank GOD He is not through with me yet! I stand on the promise Jesus Christ gave us in John 16:33 “ I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Pastor Bill