Devotions with Pastor Dick

Dear Church Family:
Historians will probably call our era “the age of anxiety.” Anxiety is the natural result when our hopes are centered in anything short of God and His will for us. —Billy Graham

When Billy Graham wrote those words in 1965, no one knew how true they would be 55 years later.

At its best, anxiety distracts us from our relationship with God and the truth that He is “Lord of heaven and earth” (Matthew 11:25).

At its worst, anxiety is a crippling disease, taking over our minds and plunging our thoughts into darkness.

But God wants so much more for us than to walk through life full of fear, worry and anxiety.

The Bible tells us in the book of Philippians, chapter 4:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Our instructions don’t stop there. The chapter goes on to tell believers exactly what we should focus on. Our focus should not be fear, terrorism, illness, death, evil or even a “world health crisis”.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable --- if there is any excellence, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy --- think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me --- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9, NIV)

May God’s blessings and grace be with you and your loved ones during these difficult times.

Pastor Dick