A few weeks ago I ran across a helpful article that offered some simple but powerful reminders about prayer that we see in God’s Word:1. God invites us to pray. “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us” (Psalm 62:8).2. God is able and available to hear our prayers. “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, a...  Read More

For the next generation to know and love the Lord Jesus takes several things, but caring teachers is one. At Grace, the desire, compassion and genuine love our teachers exhibit in Sunday School and Pioneer Clubs is amazing! I hope you’re encouraged to read these teacher testimonies.Robert and Susan Griffith who’ve taught for a couple years, think about their public pledge at baby dedications:Do yo...  Read More

According to the qualifications for elders listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, there are four ways we can pray for them, both those who are currently elders and those we are seeking to identify as potential elder candidates:1. Healthy Character: an elder must be known for living with self-control, being others-centered, using words wisely, exercising moderation, honoring toward civic authorities, calm unde...  Read More

Below are a few suggestions for engaging in Bible reading in this upcoming year:1. Pick a time and place. Figuring out when, where, and how often is best for you to personally read Scripture is essential. It may be in your kitchen early in the morning every day. It may be listening to Scripture on your way to work five days a week. Time, place, and frequency will be different for each of us, but s...  Read More

One of the most common difficulties around the holidays is loneliness, and, in a season of increased isolation, loneliness may be even more felt this year. Interestingly, the season of Advent uniquely speaks to the struggle of loneliness, both as we look back to the first coming of Christ and also look forward to his second coming.The case could be made that Jesus is the loneliest human being to h...  Read More

You’ve heard it before . . . for some people, the holidays can be the loneliest time of the year. In 2020, with isolation more prevalent than ever due to Covid, this particular Christmas season can feel like piling on. I heard from someone this week who, sadly, spent Thanksgiving apart from family for the first time in their life; an all-too-common phenomenon I fear.God hardwired us for community,...  Read More