Don't give up

Blessings! It has been a while since I have written all of you. I hope all finds you well in these trying times. I don’t know about you, but has anybody been struggling like I have lately? It seems as if the whole economy is on the fritz. Everyone I talk to is nervous about losing something, whether it is their retirement, their home, their car, or even their jobs. I have talked with several pastors who are concerned for their congregations. I hear the same story over and over. Because of the economy the congregational giving and tithing is down across the board. Even pastors are concerned that they will not be able to meet their monthly bills and may even have to close down some programs geared to help their respective communities.

I want to encourage all of the parishioners out there, “Don’t give up.” Your congregations and your communities need you more than ever now. Now is not the time to hold back. Now is the time when you have an opportunity to show the rest of the world just how much our faith in Christ means. I want to encourage all of you to put your faith in the Lord’s hands during these times of uncertainty. Let us show the world that no matter what it throws at us we will not shrink back, but instead will move forward in the faith that each of us has in Christ. If you find yourself struggling, I would like to leave the reader with two scriptures to encourage them.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matt 6:33-34)

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:19)

Remember it is God who will provide for us. We must not give up in these tough times. We must be willing to do our part for the kingdom as well. May God continue to bless you and keep you.

For those interested, we are starting a new Celebrate Recovery on October 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. It will be held every Saturday after that. For information, please call (760) 723-8086. See you there.