2025-12-11 | "The Wrapping Paper"
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”
God’s love is not a blanket one-size-fits-all covering. It is a divine wrapping crafted, measured, and fitted uniquely for each of His children. Just as a tailor designs clothing for an exact fit, God wraps us in His love so perfectly that it meets our personal needs, strengthens our unique weaknesses, and highlights His glory through our lives.
When others look at a believer who is truly wrapped in God’s love, they notice something different. It is as if they see a beautiful package—shining, set apart, appealing in a way the world cannot explain. And when they ask what makes us look so spiritually good, the answer is simple: faith.
Faith is not only the evidence of our relationship with God but also the shield that guards that relationship. With it, we withstand doubt, fear, temptation, and every fiery dart the enemy launches against us. The wrapping of God’s love and the shield of faith work together. The love holds us secure, while faith defends and displays the reality of that love. Other people see the outside, but what makes the wrapping so radiant is the treasure on the inside, Christ in us, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
Our faith shines as evidence of His presence, pointing others toward the source of our strength and beauty. Every day, we must remember that we are wrapped in the perfect love of God and shielded by faith. This allows us to walk boldly, knowing that the world sees Him by what they see “on” us and “in” us.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for wrapping me in Your love and guarding me with the shield of faith. Let my life reflect Your glory so others may see and know You. Allow me to remember what this wrapping cost You. God, BE GOD!
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2025-12-10 | "Immanuel: Our Eternal Hope"
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”
Immanuel is God’s promised Messiah (Anointed One). We celebrate His coming as a baby at Christmas, which lies in the past, and His Second Coming (Parousia) in glory (John 14:3), which lies in our future. He is the same Savior whom believers hoped for and whom Old Testament prophets predicted would come (Isaiah 7:14, 9:6-7; Micah 5:2; Zechariah 9:9), and the angels who announced His birth in the New Testament (Matthew 1:23). He remains our hope today.
We celebrate the hope brought by Immanuel, meaning “God with us.” While Gabriel announced this good news to Mary, an angel of the Lord shared the news with her betrothed husband-to-be, Joseph. Mary, of course, told him her story, but it was just too unbelievable (Matthew 1:18). A virgin birth? Seriously? So, he decided to divorce her quietly rather than proceed with marriage to an immoral and dishonest woman, so he thought (Matthew 1:19).
Then the angel appeared to him in a dream and confirmed Mary’s truthfulness. The Holy Spirit conceived the child and would “save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1: 20–21). This was another way of saying Jesus was the Messiah and the Son of God, as had been prophesied long ago by Isaiah (Matthew 1: 22–23). Nevertheless, Joseph trusted God, married Mary, and named the child Jesus. The name “Jesus” means “the Lord saves.”
Saints, during your time of worship and reflection today, give God thanks for the promise we have in His son, Immanuel. The divine gift to believers and the whole world affords eternal life to those who accept Christ. Immanuel is the believer's hope, our eternal Hope, and assurance that “God is with us”—always.
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2025-12-09 | “All I Want For Christmas”
by Beverley Alleyne
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we mentally and sometimes physically write a wish list of gifts we want to receive. We share our wish list with family and friends, expecting to get the exact gifts we desire. Most of our wishes may be for material items we want and seldom need. Can we even recall what we received last Christmas?
How about preparing a different kind of list this Christmas and giving it to our Lord and Savior instead? What if our Christmas list this year changes and includes items of a different nature, with gifts that do not fail and are not forgotten, and will strengthen our walk?
Lord, we wish for a closer walk with you, where our faith and trust in you do not waver, even in changing circumstances or when life brings disappointment, pain, and death. Help us to remember that you have overcome death, you are with us and will never leave us, and that without faith it is impossible to please you (James 1:6-8).
Lord, we wish for a deeper desire to keep you as the priority of our lives and not be distracted by the noise of our environment. We want to be aware of the idols in our lives that take priority over you and consume a significant amount of our quality time each day (Exodus 20:3).
Lord, we wish to become more like you, exhibiting your characteristics in all our endeavors and managing every situation we face in life. We want to walk in obedience to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and utilize His power on our Christian journey. (Galatians 5:22-23).
This is all we want for Christmas this year, dear Lord, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace!!
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2025-12-08 | "Why Should I Be Bound?"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.”
As those who have confessed Christ as Lord and Savior, there are times when we become so caught up in the things of this world that we end up living defeated lives. The cares of this world will sometimes overtake us. We find ourselves dealing with issues such as guilt and sadness that cause us to doubt the saving grace of God. We become so overwhelmed that we forget the depth of love that God has for us and that it is through that love that we find His forgiveness.
However, when we are in Christ, it is important that we remember that Jesus paid it all for our sins and transgressions. He is the One who went to the cross on our behalf and suffered so that we may have a true relationship with the Father. He suffered and died, but more importantly, He arose with all power in His hands. Therefore, He has power over sin, and because we are in Him, we possess that same power. With His sacrifice, sin no longer has power over us, and we are free in Him.
This means that we have received eternal life through Christ and are no longer condemned to suffer the wrath of God in this world. Moreover, because we have died to sin and its influence, we are no longer bound by it, meaning sin no longer has dominion over us. Because if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Through His forgiveness, we can live in victory and not be bound by the troubles of this world.
His forgiveness gives us access to His perfect peace, which is found in Christ Jesus our Lord.
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2025-12-05 | “Love Your Church”
by Chandra Stokes
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Jesus lives within each of us who make up His church. We are members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him, the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. There should not be schisms or divisions in GOD’s house, where His glory is meant to abide.
Schisms are condemned because they tear apart the body of Christ. The New Testament emphasizes that "There should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another” (1 Corinthians 12:25, KJV). Like a family, we may not all agree, but we can all love one another.
When building a new home, the excitement of choosing what you want is exciting, yet we have fond memories of the old family home, and the love and laughter experienced there. It is imperative NEVER to forget those who lead us, taught us, and brought us. This does not mean that we throw out the values from the old; we are to cherish and build on the firm foundation that has been laid for us. We are truly blessed to have this foundation to build on and move forward together.
Let us not tear down the foundation because of a lack of vision. “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18, KJV).
Nothing is nearer and dearer to the heart of God than His church. “And in Him we too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit” (Ephesians 2:19-22, NIV).
Let us all truly love our church enough to be a unified body and allow that Sweet-Sweet Spirit to fill His house.
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2025-12-04 | “Noise for TOYs”
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
Showing love is by letting others know that we are thinking of them. A small “Thinking of You” (T.O.Y.) gift, carefully chosen, can make someone feel deeply valued and loved. It can be inexpensive; what matters is the thought and heart behind it.
Recall the joy you have when you hand someone the perfect gift. Their eyes light up, words of gratitude spill out, and sometimes tears flow as they embrace you because your gift spoke to their heart. The gift that we provided was perfect because it was something that they really wanted or needed. We met the desire of their heart.
That act of love was modeled for us by Jesus, and he did it perfectly. The blind man who cried out, the lame who begged, or the request of Mary and Martha regarding their sick brother, Lazarus, were the noises Jesus heard, and His response was a T.O.Y. gift, tailor-made for their need. He restored sight, gave mobility, opened ears, healed bodies, and forgave sins. Every time, He provided a T.O.Y. – a “thinking-of-you gift.”
The truth is, Jesus Himself is the ultimate T.O.Y. gift. His coming from heaven, His teaching through the Word and parables, His death on the cross, and His resurrection are the greatest expressions of “I’m thinking of you.” As we give to others, let us do so with the heart of Christ—choosing gifts, words, and acts of kindness that declare, “I’m thinking of you.” In doing so, we reflect the love in our hearts for the “noise” we hear. Where there is noise, we can provide a T.O.Y. act of kindness.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for always thinking of us. Help us reflect Your love by offering gifts of kindness that supply a need and point others back to You. Amen.
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2025-12-03 | “Thinking More Highly of Others”
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
One of the most countercultural calls in the Christian life is the call to esteem others above ourselves. In a world that often celebrates self-promotion, personal achievement, and individual rights, Scripture invites us into a radically different posture—one marked by humility, service, and genuine consideration for the people around us.
Paul writes with clarity and conviction in Romans 12:3, reminding us “not to think of yourself more highly than you ought.” This doesn’t mean denying your gifts or pretending you have nothing to offer. Instead, it means seeing yourself accurately—recognizing that every ability, opportunity, and accomplishment is ultimately a gift from God. When we see ourselves rightly, we can also see others rightly: as image-bearers, beloved by God, worthy of honor and compassion.
Scripture reinforces this attitude again in 1 Peter 5:5, which teaches us to “clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another.” Humility isn’t passive or weak; it is active, intentional, and deeply Christlike. It means choosing understanding over judgment, listening over speaking, lifting others up rather than positioning ourselves first. We intentionally surrender our pride, creating space for empathy, patience, and genuine Christlike love to shape every interaction.
As we adopt this posture daily, the Lord forms Christlike character within us. When we think more highly of others—honoring, valuing, and serving them—we reflect the heart of Jesus to a world desperate for His love. Such humility becomes a living testimony, softening hard hearts, strengthening relationships, and demonstrating the transforming power of the gospel through quiet, consistent acts of grace and compassion.
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2025-12-02 | "Obedience"
by Beverley Alleyne
"Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?"
As kids, students, or employees, we have been guilty of disobeying rules created by our parents, teachers, or employers. In many instances, such disobedience resulted in us experiencing consequences ranging from mild to severe. Rules are established by earthly authorities for several reasons but primarily to maintain order in our homes, schools, the workplace, and society.
Our heavenly father has provided us with precepts by which to live. These divine truths are given to guide us into living a life of love, holiness, and commitment to God. They were not created to simply punish us when we disobey, instead they are given to protect us from the loss of intimacy and joy that are ours in walking in God’s will and His way (Psalm 19:8).
Beware, the enemy of our soul does not want us to walk in God’s will. He entices us to walk contrary to God and fools us into thinking that because of grace we can continue disobeying God. Satan is the father or lies. He roams around seeking to devour us (I Peter 5:8).
Do not be deceived because God is not mocked. He is worth our obedience. If God is our Lord and King, should we not have a higher respect and love for Him? His call for our obedience is out of love, and a desire to shower us with the benefits of a closer relationship with Him.
We should not simply read His Word, and not do what it tells us. When we choose to obey the Word of God, we are demonstrating our faith in him, we experience peace and fulfillment, and we are blessed eternally (James 1:22-25).
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2025-12-01 | "Be of Good Courage"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”
As believers in Christ, we are sometimes shocked or surprised by what is going on around us. It could be an economic downturn or a sudden turn for the worse in a job situation. Sometimes it is a tragedy that happens to us or to someone we know. These events and others that could be much worse will cause us to become anxious and concerned to the point of reacting in fear and doing things that can cause more harm than good.
However, because of our relationship with our Lord and Savior, we do not have to react in fear. We do not have to be afraid of what may happen in spite of a bad situation we may have to endure. Jesus is telling us to be of good cheer and be of good courage because He is with us regardless of whatever situation we may be faced with in our life. Our endurance is not of our own volition, but it is because of the strength we receive through the presence of the Holy Spirit of God.
Therefore, instead of being afraid we have joy; instead of being anxious, we are encouraged because He is with us. Instead of feeling in despair, we have hope in Christ and know that everything will work out in the end. Because of His presence, we have an inner peace that allows us to rest in the comfort of His arms, knowing that He will provide and take care of us according to His will.
Our trust is complete in God and He has never failed to keep His promises.
His Spirit will remind us that He is always there despite all of the distractions that are going on around us.
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2025-11-28 | "Soul Food"
by Chandra Stokes
“It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God.”
We all enjoyed soul food on Thanksgiving. Today, many will eat leftovers. God invites us to sit at His table and feast on His “Soul Food.” When God speaks, it is very different from when you and I speak. When we speak, we describe or defend our perceptions of reality. When God speaks, He speaks reality into existence.
Our words describe life and action. When God speaks creation, things other than himself come into being, like angels, galaxies, and gnats. But when God speaks Himself, He speaks with eternal deity. This is why Jesus called himself “the bread of life” (John 6:35, KJV). He said, “The bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world” (John 6:33, KJV).
God has given us one source of true soul food: His Son, Jesus Christ, the Word of God. God the Son is the great Promise for us. “All the promises of God find their Yes in him” (2 Corinthians 1:20, KJV). He is the soul’s bread, and “whoever feeds on this bread will live forever” (John 6:58, KJV).
What greater hope could our sinful souls ever know than the promise of Jesus’ complete forgiveness? As we feast upon His Word and sit at the feet of our Father, our hearts and souls are filled with the true bread from heaven. Praise God—His table is wide, and there is room enough for all.
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2025-11-27 | "Sitting at My Table"
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
Picture yourself sitting at a table with Jesus, across from the One who has given everything for you. In your hand is a greeting card—simple, yet filled with words that could never fully capture the depth of your gratitude. You slide it across the table to Him, your heart feeling anxious because Jesus is at your table.
For a fleeting moment, you feel like the disciples at the Last Supper. He opens the card and begins to read, “Thank You, Lord,” and He looks up at you. And then continues to read. “Thank You for the Word that guides my steps, and for the parables that teach me how to live with wisdom and humility. Thank You for leaving the glory of heaven and coming to earth to save all who believe. Thank You for enduring the beating, the nails driven through Your wrists, the piercing of Your side, and the blood You shed for my salvation. Thank You for the cross where You bore the weight of my sins, and thank You that death could not hold You—because You rose again, victoriously.”
By now, your eyes are filled with tears. The message on the card ends with “But most of all, Jesus, thank You for Your grace and mercy. Grace that gives me what I do not deserve. Mercy that spares me from what I do. Both flow from Your heart of love, and I am forever changed.”
As you look up, Jesus’ gaze lets you know that your act of thankfulness was appreciated, not because He needed your words, but because He treasures your gratitude. Every act of thanksgiving is an offering that glorifies Him.
What would you put in a card of thanks to Jesus today?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank You for every act of love, for salvation, and for grace and mercy that never end. May my life be a continual card of thanksgiving to You. GLORY and AMEN!
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2025-11-26 | “A Balm in Gilead”
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? So why has the healing of my dear people not come about?”
The prophet Jeremiah passionately, urgently, yearningly cries out, “Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?” (Jeremiah 8:22, CSB). The balm was a healing resin known for its soothing power; it is a biblical symbol of God’s restorative grace. Just as the balm brought relief to physical wounds, Christ brings healing to the brokenness in our relationships.
Relational wounds—misunderstandings, betrayals, or long silences—can feel deeper than physical pain. Yet the gospel assures us that reconciliation is possible—"reconciliation is possible.” Paul reminds us, “Bear with each other and forgive one another… Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13, NIV). Forgiveness is the balm that softens hardened hearts and restores fellowship.
Healing relationships requires humility and patience. James urges us “to...pray for each other so that you may be healed” (James 5:16, NIV). Prayer becomes the physician’s touch, applying God’s balm to our souls. When we pray together, we invite the Spirit to mend what human effort cannot.
The balm in Gilead points us to the Great Physician who heals not only our sins but also the fractures between us. As we receive His mercy, we are empowered to extend mercy. In doing so, we embody the truth that there is indeed a balm in Gilead—Jesus—who makes the wounded whole. We affirm that Christ is not just a healer of symptoms but the very source of complete restoration.
So, honestly reflect: Where do we need to apply the balm of forgiveness today? Who might God be calling us to pray with for healing?
To embrace the balm in Gilead means participating in Christ’s ministry of reconciliation. We offer forgiveness, engage in prayer, and act as agents of peace—dissolving ill will and restoring unity within His body, for His glory!
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2025-11-25 | "Deeply Loved"
by Beverley Alleyne
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Do you recognize how deeply God loves you? Do you find it hard to comprehend that He loves you? You may be struggling with thoughts of past rejection by someone you thought loved you but rejected you instead. You may feel unworthy of being loved because of past sins and believe that God cannot possibly love you.
Be encouraged today. We are fully known and loved unconditionally by God. He understands our frame perfectly. He knows that we are dust (Psalm 103:14). He extends grace and mercy despite our frailty. No one else knows us that intimately, nor cares so sincerely.
God desperately seeks us and knocks at the door of our hearts before we are saved. When we accept Him, His pursuit is not over. He desires a relationship with us. So, He resides in us as the Holy Spirit, providing the help and comfort we need with everyday problems, guiding us as we walk on the right path of life. Providing the power we need to live out the Christian life and carry out the great commission to share the gospel.
Our life journey may be filled with challenges, temptations, disappointments, and fear but we serve a loving, caring God who loves us so much that He died for us and gives us eternal life. He has prepared a place for us to spend eternity with Him and has great plans for each of us for a future and hope. He will not force us to accept His plans for our lives, but if we are wise enough to accept them, we will benefit tremendously (Jeremiah 29:11).
Take comfort in the old familiar song “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”
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2025-11-24 | "Your Heavenly Father Knows"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“Therefore do not worry, saying ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all of these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
When life becomes difficult and the times are hard, it is easy to become caught up in the situations that we are having to endure. Because when circumstances become rough, we naturally begin to focus more on the situation that we are going through. It causes our concerns to overwhelm us. The next thing we know, our stress levels increase. It affects our health, both mentally and physically.
However, our heavenly Father, Who cares for us deeply, more than we can comprehend. He knows our every need and will supply them according to His will regardless of the situation. As believers in Christ Jesus, what we have to remind ourselves of is that God knows what we are going through and He is more than able to carry us through it.
Because we serve a God who knows all about us; therefore, we can always place our hope and trust in Him. He has promised to always take care of us. Regardless of what we may be going through, God will provide whatever we need and when we need it. Since we have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, we are assured of His love and His faithfulness throughout our lives. Because our hope and trust are in Him, we also have joy even in the midst of troublesome times. Our faith in God keeps us in perfect peace, and we rest comfortably in His arms, no matter the difficulty we face.
God knows and God cares.
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2025-11-21 | "A Fresh Perspective"
by Chandra Stokes
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
One of the most incredible things God can give us is a fresh perspective. Sometimes, change comes from outside; other times, it is our perspective that shifts. Often, anxiety reveals that we are focused on an anticipated future. Do you know that we can be afraid and still be filled? That we can be empty of energy and filled with God’s Spirit? God is my in between. He will take something terrible and turn it into something good.
The cross was God’s response to our sin; the stimulus was our sin. God’s response to our sin could have been wrath, but instead, it was grace. The distance was fixed between God and us so that we did not come to Him, but that He came to us. The suffering was the stimulus; forgiveness was His response. God is calling us to have an enlarged perspective on His faithfulness and power as we get close to the end of this year, to be aware of His ability, not our own limitations, and not what the world may say.
Perspective is all about seeing something from a larger frame of reference. The thing is, having the proper perspective is awfully hard sometimes because we see things from such a small vantage point. It’s hard to step outside of our ordinary ways of thinking to see God’s bigger picture. Even when we are looking for the bigger picture, God, in His infinite wisdom, often chooses not to reveal it to us.
We will often have the wrong perspective because we are looking at things through our own eyes instead of having the faith to look up and see the One who is holding the framework of a bigger picture―“a fresh perspective.”
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2025-11-20 | "Meal Prep"
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty.”
Thanksgiving meals take pre-planning. We make shopping lists, gather ingredients, prepare side dishes, bake desserts, and set the table just right. Hours of preparation go into creating a feast that satisfies not only the appetite but also the hearts of everyone gathered.In much the same way, preparing and presenting the Word of God requires intentionality so that others can taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8).
When we study the Scriptures, meditate on them, and allow the Holy Spirit to season our understanding, we are preparing a spiritual meal. Just as no one would serve raw ingredients on Thanksgiving, we must take the time to make the Word digestible—breaking it down into teachings and testimonies that nourish, encourage, and strengthen others and us. And just as a holiday meal includes more than the main dish—side dishes, rolls, desserts, and even leftovers—God’s Word does also, but in abundance.
It offers comfort, correction, wisdom, and promises to satisfy our souls.
The “dessert” is the sweetness of His presence, and the “trimmings” are the applications of His truth to our everyday struggles. Every bite of His meal has the power to transform us if we are willing to consume it fully. There are numerous benefits when digesting the Word―strength, joy, and spiritual growth. When we consume it with THANKSGIVING, we can do all things because it will strengthen our walk (Philippians 4:13).
When we learn to prepare a scrumptious meal, set the table, and share with others, they benefit from the work and see the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. We can share a feast with others that glorifies God and sustains us in every season.
Prayer:
Lord, help us prepare and consume Your Word as carefully as we would a feast. Amen.
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2025-11-19 | "Peacemakers"
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
In a world filled with conflict, division, and constant noise, Jesus’ words in today’s passage resonate clearly: Being a peacemaker is not just about avoiding conflict or staying silent during tense moments. It involves actively participating in God’s work of reconciliation—restoring what is broken, healing what is wounded, and guiding others toward the peace only Christ can provide.
Christian peacemaking starts within. We cannot give peace we do not have. Through prayer, surrender, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, God develops in us a calm, steady, and non-argumentative heart. Peacemakers let God’s peace guide their reactions, soften their tone, and influence their motives.
However, peacemaking must also extend outward. Paul reminds believers, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18, ESV). This involves choosing patience over impatience, showing grace in the face of harshness, and refusing to allow aggression to dominate our relationships. It means listening before speaking, seeking understanding rather than victory, and turning to God’s wisdom instead of reacting emotionally.
Peacemaking may not always bring immediate harmony, but it always reflects Christ's character. Each time we sow peace—through forgiveness, kindness, speaking truth in love, or staying calm amid chaos—we shine His light into dark places.
Today, pray to God to make you an instrument of His peace. Where there is tension, practice gentleness. Where there is misunderstanding, offer clarity. Where there is hurt, show compassion. Let your life reflect the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
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2025-11-18 | "God Provides"
by Beverley Alleyne
"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
When a resource we depend upon is eliminated, we can easily go into panic mode, doubting our ability to meet our needs. Our minds can go into overdrive, trying to figure out a solution to our problem. Whether the resource was a job that was downsized or a lucrative stock portfolio wiped out by a sudden stock market crash, we can experience anxiety and stress. We feel out of control.
God is the only source of our provision. He is our anchor. He uses various resources to provide for our needs and wants but those resources are only temporary. A job does not last forever, nor does our money. No resource that we tend to depend upon so heavily will do. God is the giver of all good gifts, and He promised to always provide for His own.
We should not be anxious about having what we need or enough of it. We should not worry about what we will eat, drink, or wear. We have a heavenly Father who understands, is fully aware of what we need, and is able and ready to provide for us (Matthew 6:31-32).
When we consider the birds of the air, the animals of the wild, and how they survive and do not die of starvation, it should encourage us to believe the promises of God. If we look back at our lives and recall God’s provisions in the past, we should resolve to trust God without doubt and without wavering (Luke 12:24).
Is our issue whether God will provide or our lack of trust in Him? Our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
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2025-11-17 | "I Am Married to You"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in lovingkindness and mercy; I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, and you shall know the Lord.”
In this world in which we live, it is easy to become lost in all of the news and rhetoric that dominate the conversations that envelope us on a daily basis. The disorder of the times can lead to utter confusion and disarray and have us going down the wrong path, not knowing the direction we are following nor who we are in this society. However, we who are believers in Christ have a solid foundation of knowing our direction in life, and having a complete understanding to whom we belong.
When we are lost, not only are we unable to find our way, but we also endure a lack of assurance or a feeling of helplessness. Nevertheless, because we belong to the Lord, our confidence and our strength is found in Him through Jesus Christ. This is because God has promised to always be with us and He will keep us in our difficulties. Therefore, instead of having feelings of desperation, we have the reassurance of His love and know that He is ours and we are His. Instead of dealing with feelings of futility, we stand on the solid word of God.
Because God has promised Himself to us, we therefore walk in the righteousness of His Son, and acknowledge that His faithfulness will never fail. Through His lovingkindness, we experience His peace in a world that lacks understanding. We recognize that our hope is in Him, so we have joyful hearts that the world cannot give and the world cannot take away. His love is an everlasting love that never fades away.
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2025-11-14 | “The Potter’s Hands”
by Chandra Stokes
“Then the word of the Lord came to me. He said, “Can I not do with you, Israel, as this potter does?” declares the Lord. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel”.
We are like clay in the Potter’s hands. There are things God is doing in our lives, and we have a choice: we can respond to His working or resist it. We can yield to what He wants us to do, or we can disobey when He tells us to do something.
We, too, insist on shaping ourselves. We take pride in designing our identities and dictating the course of our lives. From our perspective, we look well-formed. From God’s perspective, we are incomplete. The more set we are in our ways, the more painful God’s work. For God to have his way, he must pick us up, break us down, and reshape us.
I have struggled with the nudge from God, every time that He convicts me to get back on the wheel to allow Him to reshape my heart, my mind, and my Spirit. It is easy to forget that we may need the Potter to make us over repeatedly.
The true sign of a devoted potter is his refusal to let an unformed vessel harden in place. The true sign of God’s devotion to us is that he never stops working on us. Paul wrote, “We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10, NIV). Our Lord is the master artist. If we let him, he will make us his masterpiece. As you pray, commit your life to the Potter’s hands.
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2025-11-13 | “Weary, Worn, and Sad”
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
There are days when the weight of the world feels crushing. The news cycles show violence, division, injustice, and suffering. As believers, we grieve what we see because we know it is the evidence of a world under siege by sin and the works of the enemy, the prince of this world (John 12:31). Some days, it leaves us weary, worn, and sad.
The Apostle Paul reminded us in Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” The struggle is real, which explains why, on some days, we feel spiritually depleted and tempted to give up.
Even in the midst of our weakness, God’s indwelling strength carries us. He does not deny our weariness; He meets us in it. The Holy Spirit whispers peace when anxiety tries to overwhelm us. Christ Himself intercedes when our prayers feel too heavy to pray. God reminds us that His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
So, we give thanks even with tired hearts for the gift of strength that sustains us when we feel like walking away. We hold on, knowing that hope in the Lord renews our strength, that His mercies are new every morning, and that the victory is already ours in Christ Jesus. The fearless fighters in the Bible provide examples of those who overcame weariness, exhaustion, and sadness to achieve remarkable feats. We can learn ways to live by faith from what they experienced, starting with giving THANKS.
Prayer:
Lord, when we feel weary, renew our strength. Remind me that the battle is Yours and that our hope in You will never fail. Amen.
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2025-11-12 | "Restoration and Reconciliation"
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Restoration and reconciliation are not just divine acts—they are the very rhythm of God’s redemptive story. From Eden’s rupture to Calvary’s cross, Scripture reveals a God who relentlessly pursues broken people to restore what was lost and reconcile what was divided.
In 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV), Paul declares, “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” This isn’t passive peace—it’s active pursuit. God didn’t wait for humanity to return; He came near in Christ, bridging the gap sin had carved.
Restoration is more than repair—it is renewal. Joel 2:25 (NIV) offers a promise that pulses with hope: “I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten.” God does not merely patch wounds; He revives purpose, dignity, and destiny. What was devoured by regret, rebellion, or loss can be replanted by grace.
Theologically, reconciliation is rooted in justice and mercy. It acknowledges the offense but chooses forgiveness. It confronts the fracture but seeks unity. Restoration is the fruit of reconciliation—it’s the visible healing of invisible wounds.
In our lives, this means we do not just receive grace—we extend it. We become agents of healing, ambassadors of peace, and builders of bridges. Whether in relationships, communities, or our own hearts, the call is clear: repair, restore, reconcile.
Make today the moment things begin to change. Where there is brokenness, sow grace. Where there is silence, speak peace. Where there is distance, walk toward restoration.
“...as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18 (NKJV).
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2025-11-11 | “Good Medicine”
by Beverley Alleyne
"My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them escape from your sight; keep them in the midst of your heart. For they are life to those who find them and health to all their flesh".
When there is physical or emotional pain, taking medicine can relieve it immediately or over time. Relief from pain restores our health. Some medicines carry negative side effects that create other issues for us. Despite this knowledge, we take them because we believe the benefits outweigh the risks. We must, however, take it as prescribed to benefit from the promised benefits fully.
As Christians, we are not exempt from pain. We experience physical, emotional, and spiritual pain. Our flesh and our hearts may fail because of the physical limitations of our bodies, and we need God’s medicine to strengthen our hearts (Psalm 73:26).
While we take the medicine prescribed by our earthly doctors to fix our suffering, we must take the Word of God, which is the medicine we need to heal us spiritually. The Word of God has no negative side effects; it heals our souls and minds and also improves our physical well-being.
We are encouraged through the poetry of the proverb to take daily doses of God’s Word by paying attention to it, by listening to it, by keeping it in sight at all times, and by holding it in our hearts to achieve the relief we so desperately need. Such actions produce life, health, and healing. If we refuse to digest God’s Word, or think we do not need it, we are not equipped to manage the spiritual warfare successfully we will face in this fallen world.
Although our physical bodies deteriorate, we find
encouragement in God’s Word to not lose heart. The pain and suffering we experience on this side of heaven are light, and just for a moment when compared to eternity (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). God’s Word is the good medicine remedy.
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2025-11-10 | "Hope and Trust"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord.”
The world in which we live has found itself in a confused state, and people do not know which way to turn. In the midst of all of the chaos and distress, we find that there are those who will tell us to place our hope and trust in them. When, in reality, the decisions they make cause more harm than good. With all this uncertainty, it is good to know that we have a God in whom we can place our hope and trust, who will never fail us.
The God we serve is set up from everlasting to everlasting and does not change. As believers, there is no better hope than knowing that the Lord is always here for us. He is our Rock and our Strong Tower. He will hold us in His right hand and keep us in perfect peace. Because in this world, the things that most depend upon are materialistic and temporary. Whether it is education, money, possessions, or power, all of them can be taken away at a moment's notice, and when that happens, then what is left?
However, the Most High God is steadfast, and He will provide our every need according to His riches in glory. He does not show partiality; it does not matter who we are or where we are from. If we trust in the Lord, He will be there with us through the thick and the thin. All we have to do is stand firm on His word, and He will come through for us.
Let us continue to place our hope and our trust in the True and the Living God.
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2025-11-07 | "Praise Him"
by Chandra Stokes
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.”
When we seek our God, we will find Him. And when we choose to praise Him, we invite Him into our situation. We can give praise in every situation, like Paul and Silas, who worshipped God in prison, and Daniel, who prayed even when it was dangerous. God wants your praise through the ups and downs. Valleys and mountain tops will come throughout our lives, but know that you can invite God into the mountain top moments, and especially the valley moments, with an attitude of praise.
Truth is, I need regular cues from God’s word to help me remember that, regardless of how challenging life can be, God is worthy of my praise every single day. Like an old well pump, I need to be primed a little for praise to start flowing from my heart and across my lips.
When I invite God into my situation by turning to Him, I can praise Him, give thanks, focus on what is unseen and eternal, fill my thoughts with testimonies, and speak His Word. Have faith – unbelief talks about the mountain, but faith speaks to the mountain by declaring the Word and the promises of God. What He did to the mountain yesterday, He can do again today.
God can turn all things for the good of those who love Him. When Daniel was thrown in the lion’s den, God brought him through; when David faced Goliath, God had the victory; and when Jesus was on the cross, God defeated the enemy. When we invite Him into our lives with praise, we align our hearts with His Word and promises. We can be amid our hardest trials, but we can still praise Him because, in Christ, we have the victory!
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2025-11-06 | “Soldiers Who SERVE”
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer.”
The Christian life is not a casual walk. It is a BATTLEFIELD.
Like soldiers, we are enlisted in a spiritual war, not a physical one. Every day, we face the unseen enemy of this world, and we must be equipped to fight. Soldiers know what it means to endure the foxhole experience—those dark, confined spaces where fear and uncertainty press in. Christians face the same moments, seasons of loneliness, suffering, or waiting can feel like being in a foxhole. Yet it is in those trenches where trust in our Commander, Christ, is essential for survival.
As we enter the war, the Bible provides us with the levels of the enemy, Ephesians 6:12 (NIV), “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world.” Our ammunition is not bullets or bombs, but prayer, worship, Scripture, and the power of the Holy Spirit. With these weapons, strongholds fall, and victory is assured.
No soldier fights alone. We are part of a troop—the body of Christ. Together, we cover each other, march in unity, and encourage the weary. The Bible declares that we “forsake not the assembling” (Hebrews 11:25, KJV). This is the time to equip the servants (soldiers) through sound preaching and teaching. Sometimes, we grieve the loss of fellow soldiers, loved ones who have finished their fight and gone home. Their sacrifice reminds us that the war is real, but so is the eternal reward. The life of a soldier is not easy, but it is purposeful.
When we live as soldiers of Christ—focused, disciplined, and armed with His Word—we glorify our Commander and move closer to the ultimate victory He has already won.
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2025-11-05 | “Spiritual Transformation”
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
In a world drenched with noise, distraction, and distorted values, the call to a transformed mind is not merely intellectual—it is deeply spiritual. Scripture invites us to a renewal that reshapes not only how we think, but how we live, love, and discern.
In today’s verse, Paul writes that this transformation is not cosmetic—it is a radical reorientation. The original Greek meaning for “transformed” suggests a complete change in form, like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. It is not about behavior modification; it is about spiritual metamorphosis.
This renewal starts with surrender. When we submit our thoughts to God’s truth, the Spirit rewires our patterns—shifting from fear to faith, from pride to humility, from confusion to clarity.
Philippians 2:5 (KJV) encourages, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” His mind was characterized by obedience, compassion, and divine purpose. To think like Christ is to live like Christ—embracing humility, seeking God’s will, loving sacrificially, and walking daily in Spirit-led obedience.
A transformed mind discerns God’s will, resists worldly compromise, and reflects heaven’s wisdom. It becomes a sanctuary where truth dwells and grace flows. In this renewal, we do not escape the world—we engage it with holy clarity. We become vessels of truth in a culture of confusion. We model as shining with discernment, compassion, and conviction. As transformed believers, we carry heaven’s perspective into everyday places that desperately need light.
Today, invite the Spirit to renew your thoughts. Let Scripture shape your perspective. And let your mind become a mirror of Christ’s heart—transformed, shining, and ready.
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2025-11-04 | "It Is Always Thanksgiving Time"
by Beverley Alleyne
“All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying: “Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!”
In this Thanksgiving season, it is customary for friends and families to plan how they will spend Thanksgiving Day and with whom. We do not and should not have to wait until Thanksgiving Day to give our Lord and Savior the thanks he so richly deserves.
Consider my acrostic created for this season:
T - thank God for salvation (John 3:16).
H - hold his name in high honor (Deuteronomy 5:11)
A - always worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23).
N - never stop thanking him (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
K - know that He is God and there is none like him (Psalm 86:8).
S - sing praises of thanksgiving to him daily (Psalm 100:4).
G - give thanks daily for his loving kindness toward us. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever (Psalm 136:1).
I - I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all your wonderful deeds
(Psalm 9:1).
V - voices of his children should be raised in praises to the Lord (2 Chronicles 5:13).
I - I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness. I will sing praises to the name of
the Lord, the Most High (Psalm 7:17).
N - nothing that God created is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving because
everything that God created is good and is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.
(1 Timothy 4:4-5).
G - go tell someone about the goodness of God (Matthew 28:19).
It is always Thanksgiving time!
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2025-11-03 | "Who Do You Trust?"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“Do not put your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help. His spirit departs, he returns to his earth; in that very day his plans perish. Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose help is in the Lord his God…”
We live in a world where we hear a lot of empty rhetoric from different people who claim to have the answers. We listen to a lot of false philosophies that claim to have the answers to all of our problems and guarantee our happiness. We pay attention to people who say they have the solutions to our problems. Nevertheless, with all of these plans, which are here today and gone tomorrow, the world is still struggling with the same issues that never seem to have a resolution.
We, as believers, must be careful as to who we choose to place our trust in. It is easy to become caught up in what is being said and by who is saying it. There are so many people trying to influence us in one direction or another. They are striving to move us in the way that they are going; telling us that it will be better for us if we just continue to go in the direction that they are telling us.
However, as the body of Christ, there is only One direction in which we are to be guided; there is only One person in whom we should place our trust. There is only One way we should follow, and that is through Christ Jesus.
His directions will sustain us all the days of our life. We can always trust in His Word because His Word will never fail us. Happy and joyful is the one who has the Lord God for his help, for He will never forsake us. His Word will never pass away and will always withstand the test of time.
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2025-10-31 | “Integrity”
by Chandra Stokes
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”
Despite their commonality, having good morals and integrity are two separate things. Anyone can agree that stealing, lying, and murdering are wrong and immoral. People can even agree that gossip, unkindness, and lust are not “good morals” or standards to live by, but do you keep yourself from engaging in any of those things? That’s what integrity is. It is an honest way of living, being exactly who you say you are and living by the standards that you hold others to.
Integrity is a shortcut to the heart. It gets past all the pretending, the following rules, and the head knowledge, and examines the heart and its values. These values should be reflected in our behavior, how we treat others, and what we believe about ourselves, too. As Christians, we should be changed by what we know about Jesus and how He loves us. Many of us are quick to claim that we believe God’s Word and agree with His commandments.
But, if that were the case, would it not be more evident in our lives?
Unfortunately, it is never that easy. If it were, we would all be living with integrity all the time. But instead, we wrestle and struggle with understanding ourselves and our desires. We do not always do what we say we do —or want to do —and we do not live our lives reflecting our heart’s true values. We see this same internal battle in Paul, who writes, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do” (Romans 7:15, NIV).
We must strive to be people of integrity because our youth are watching and taking notes.
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2025-10-30 | "Trick or Treat"
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.”
Life as a Christian will certainly be filled with countless decisions. These decisions can range from what job to take, which church to attend, or where to invest our funds. Some paths glitter with opportunity, but not every open door is from God. The enemy is clever and disguises snares as blessings, hoping we will step into them without seeking God’s direction. What looks like a shortcut to success may actually be a trap designed to derail us from our purpose.
At the same time, God offers genuine blessings—treats, not tricks. These are the gifts that align with His Word, honor His will, and bring peace rather than confusion. James 1:17 (NIV) reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” The difference between the devil’s bait and God’s blessing is determined by discernment. This is the spiritual ability to distinguish between what appears good and what is truly from God.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) teaches us to “trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” When we pause, pray, and seek the Spirit’s leading, God gives clarity. The reward of choosing rightly is a life filled with an abundance of peace, joy, provision, and purpose.
More importantly, it glorifies God when His people walk in wisdom and truth. Before we make any decision, we should ask: Does this honor God? Does it line up with His Word? Does it lead me closer to Christ? If the answer is yes, it is a treat from your heavenly Father. If the answer is no, beware—this trick may be the devil’s snare.
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2025-10-29 | "Peace Amid Transition"
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”
Leadership transitions in ministry can stir uncertainty—new voices, fresh direction, and the weight of legacy. Yet, Scripture reminds us that peace is not found in predictability, but in prayerful trust. When Moses passed the mantle to Joshua, the people faced a new season. God’s assurance was clear: “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will not leave you or forsake you” (Joshua 1:5, ESV).
Leadership may change, but God’s presence remains constant. He does not shift with seasons or personalities; His faithfulness endures. In every transition, He remains our anchor—steady, wise, and intimately involved in guiding His people forward.
Paul’s encouragement to Timothy echoes this truth. As a young leader stepping into weighty responsibility, Timothy was reminded: “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7, ESV).
Transitions are not moments of loss, but invitations to lean deeper into God’s sustaining grace. They summon us to release control, trust His timing, and discover fresh strength in His presence—where uncertainty becomes an opportunity for divine faithfulness to unfold (Proverbs 3:5-7).
Whether you are stepping into leadership, stepping back from it, or walking alongside those who do, let your heart be anchored in prayer. God’s peace is not passive—it actively guards us. It stands watch over our hearts like a watchman, shielding us from fear, doubt, and distraction, anchoring our minds in the steady truth of Christ’s presence. In every transition, He is faithful to lead, comfort, and empower.
Let us not fear the shift, but embrace it with thanksgiving, knowing the same Spirit who guided yesterday’s leaders is already preparing tomorrow’s leaders.
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2025-10-28 | “Growing Pains”
by Beverley Alleyne
"Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."
In these verses from the book of Romans, we are encouraged as Christians to focus more on the spiritual growth that results from our suffering rather than the unpleasant pain we feel. Spiritual growth includes being strengthened, resulting in a deeper experience of the love of God. Suffering produces character and endurance, and it teaches us that we can find great confidence, hope, and joy while we are in our pain.
God allows pain in our lives to test our faith and to grow our strength (1 Peter 1:6-7).
As Christians, our desire should be to grow in Christ. We should all be growing in the knowledge of Christ, living by His precepts, and developing a deeper love for God and others. Understanding who we are in Christ should result in our desiring a closer walk and relationship with him. In our pain, we should remember that God is our sustainer, is close to the brokenhearted, and has promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
In the sanctification process of maturing in Christ, God will allow adversity to come into our lives, changing those perspectives, habits, and characteristics that do not line up with His word and prevent our spiritual maturity. Although this conversion is uncomfortable, it is necessary if we are to develop a deeper understanding of God, become more Christlike, and be equipped to carry out the great commission to spread the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20).
The discomfort of pain should cause us all to cry out to God and to surrender everything to Him. We can be victorious when we ponder the benefits of the pain and remember that adversity and pain are light afflictions that only last for a season.
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2025-10-27 | "He Is Always There"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lends; and his descendants are blessed.”
We live in an uncertain world, and it is easy to become concerned and worried about the future. Because of the selfish nature that is prevalent in our society, we feel left to our own devices and have no one in whom we can trust. Whether it is concern for the future of our lives or the lives of our children, it is difficult to know what we should do or which direction we should follow.
Some people trust in their education, or their bank account and stock portfolio, which can be here today and gone tomorrow. Leaders will come and go, and power structures may rise and fall, never to be seen again. However, we are reminded that the righteous of God through Christ Jesus are never abandoned or forsaken.
The righteous in Jesus are those who place their trust in the True and Living God. As believers, we know that God sustains our hope and that we can stand on His Word. Those who are the righteous in Christ know that the Lord is able to provide all of our needs according to His riches in glory, regardless of what may be going on around us.
We know that the Lord is merciful towards us and that we live in His favor through Christ Jesus. He is ever faithful towards us, and His goodness never fails. He is the source of our joy, and He is the strength of our lives.
Because He has given us His precious promises, we understand that our dependency and faith are in God and God alone.
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2025-10-24 | “If God Be for Us?”
by Chandra Stokes
“What shall we say to these things? “If God be for us, who can be against us?"
The “things” Paul is referring to are the teachings about salvation that he has discussed earlier, such as freedom from sin and death, the life-giving Spirit who lives in us, the new life we have as God’s children, the promise of renewal despite suffering we may face today, and strength and hope to endure.
Faith in Jesus does not remove all the struggles we may encounter in life. Still, we know that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, KJV). Somehow, despite bad things that can happen in our lives, God works to conform us “to the image of his Son” (Romans 8:29, KJV).
Paul’s question, “Who can be against us?” answers itself: If God is for us, of course, no one can be against us! And Paul goes on to say, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39, NIV).
As you face hardship head-on, the power of the living God anchors you with divine assurance. Never give up. God’s love is unshakable. God gives us the strength not only to face but also to conquer the enemy’s attacks.
Unmoved and unwavering — that is the love of God.
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2025-10-23 | "Harvest Happenings"
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
God designed our lives to bear fruit not just for ourselves, but for the blessing of others. Just as a farmer sows seed into the ground expecting a future harvest, we must sow acts of kindness, compassion, and service into the lives of those around us. Each prayer, each helping hand, and each word of encouragement is a seed planted in faith.
There are times when we do not immediately see the results of our serving. It can be exhausting to give, especially when others do not notice, say thank you, or show ungratefulness toward us. But Galatians reminds us that if we keep serving faithfully and do not give up, we will reap a plentiful harvest in God’s timing. That harvest is seen in lives transformed, burdens lifted, communities healed, and even in our own hearts as we grow closer to Christ. Jesus Himself modeled this truth.
He said in Matthew 20:28 (NIV), “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” His act of service brought forth the greatest harvest of all for all, salvation. When we serve others, we are walking in His footsteps, sowing seeds that carry eternal value.
Today, we must remember that our service matters. Every small act is a seed, and God promises it will produce a harvest. Keeping our eyes on Him and trusting that the fruit of our labor will glorify His name will always cause a harvest to happen!
Prayer:
Lord, give us the strength to serve faithfully and the vision to see that our serving produces a harvest for Your glory. Help us not to grow weary but to trust in Your timing to see the harvest happen. Amen.
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2025-10-22 | "Discernment Over Emotion"
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God…”
In a world saturated with emotional noise—opinions, reactions, and pressures—it is easy to absorb the temperature of others and call it our own. But Scripture calls us to a higher path: the renewal of our minds through discernment. This is not cold detachment; it is Spirit-led clarity.
Jesus modeled this perfectly. He wept with those who mourned, yet He never let emotion override mission. He felt compassion, but He also withdrew to pray and to recalibrate. His discernment was not reactive—it was rooted in truth. In other words, Jesus’ emotional depth never clouded His divine clarity. He embraced sorrow, yet prioritized solitude to align with the Father’s will. His discernment flowed from communion, not impulse—“He often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5:16, NIV).
Operating with a discerning mind means pausing before we absorb. We ask, "Is this emotion mine, or am I borrowing someone else’s storm?" We test the spirit of the moment. We anchor ourselves in God’s Word, not in the sway of sentiment. Discerning minds resist emotional corruption by filtering every feeling through truth. We pause, pray, and weigh—refusing reactionary influence. As 1 John 4:1 urges, we “test the spirits” before trusting them.
This kind of discernment protects our peace. It allows us to respond rather than react. It helps us lead with wisdom, not just empathy. And it keeps us aligned with God’s will, even when emotions run high.
Today, renew your mind. Before you speak, post, or decide, pause. Discern. Let truth guide you, not turbulence. You will find that peace and clarity walk hand in hand when your mind is anchored in Christ and not in chaos or fleeting emotion. You gain clarity. You discern truth over trend, peace over panic, and purpose over pressure.
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2025-10-21 | “United in Love”
by Beverley Alleyne
"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing."
There is a saying that unity is strength. After all, a threefold cord is not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12). In the corporate world, the general belief is that a team is only as strong as its weakest link. In I Peter 3:8-9, the Apostle Peter strongly urges the believers then and us now as modern-day believers to maintain a disposition of unity and compassion and to respond to hostility with blessings instead of retaliation.
Verse 8 admonishes us to remain humble in spirit, always expressing brotherly love and sympathy. Above all, we need unity in spirit. In verse 9, Peter’s advice is more of a command to believers to abstain from any level or form of retaliation against anyone who has insulted or done evil against us. In fact, he is requesting that a blessing be offered instead. As believers, this is our reasonable service and what we are called to if we are to receive a blessing from the Lord.
In his prayer for the disciples, Jesus included a prayer for all believers that those who believe in Him would be one (John 17:20). He prayed for unity and oneness among the believers. Unity indicates harmony among individuals, and oneness strengthens individuals to become a unified whole.
We are representatives of Christ. In this season of increasing rejection of Christ, with conflict and division all around us, we must remember that the way the world will know that we belong to Christ is from the love we have for one another (John 13:34-35).
We must remain united through the bond of love. Unity can be achieved by practicing humility, patience, love, and forgiveness.
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2025-10-20 | "Grace And Peace"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
We are easily distracted by the turmoil that we see on the news and what we hear in different conversations throughout the day. Unfortunately, we allow the world and our society to have control over our emotions, and we ultimately endure stress over things that we know our God has control over. This happens because we tend to allow the troubles of this world to overtake our minds instead of focusing on the goodness of God.
The grace we received from God through Jesus is His favor and kindness that sustains us through whatever it is that we face in our daily lives. It is His grace that keeps us through every situation, regardless of the difficulties that may arise from them. It is His peace that allows us to face any and all circumstances, irrespective of how strenuous they may be. It is through grace and peace that our hope is allowed to flourish, our faith is strengthened, and our joy is made complete.
Of the many blessings we receive from our relationship with God, the blessings of grace and peace are the two that are most prevalent in our lives. They are present in such great abundance that we often take them for granted and do not even think about them. However, when we wake up in the morning, we receive grace and peace.
Throughout the day, we have grace and peace. He also extends to us grace and peace at the end of our day, which allows us to sleep comfortably at night. God gives grace and peace as our daily bread that will cover us in His love.
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2025-10-17 | “Mis-Illusion of Control”
by Chandra Stokes
“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him,” for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my father, and he will at once put at disposal more than twelve legions of angels.”
Janet Jackson had a hit song in 1986 titled “Control.” She was trying to assert her independence from her father and take control of her own life. Often, parents grant their children the illusion of control as they approach the “I know everything” age of 18. Parent wisdom recognizes that, if they are under their roof and need financial support, the parents have all the control.
As believers, we accept what God allows. Daily, the news from this administration is doom and gloom and targets people of color and other indigenous people. The president’s agenda is not to make America Great but rather to dismantle all the organizations and norms that have been the envy of the world. We know that there is a vast difference between divine control and the fleshy self-aggrandizing illusion of control.
Our Lord is the King of Kings and knows all. The self-proclaimed King is moving swiftly and wielding his illusion of control that is meant to hurt those who don’t look like him. Thanks be to God that the blood of Jesus covers us –“no weapon formed against us shall prosper” (Isaiah 54:17, KJV).
Beloved, learn to look past what they say and do, for our focus should be on what our Lord and Savior is doing, because He is truly in control. His divine control always supersedes that of those who demonstrate “mis-Illusion control,” because he can use their over-reach for his plan. You may wonder what his plan is. All we need to do is continue to seek His face and pray for our country in faith for a better tomorrow, and accept the will of God and His divine control.
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2025-10-16 | “A Change in Seasons”
by Reverend ReGina Etter
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Life is filled with seasons for us to experience. There will be times of joy and times of sorrow, times of growth and times of waiting. Just like nature shifts from spring to summer, from autumn to winter, our lives move through seasons that change us. Some seasons bring warmth and laughter; others bring challenges that stretch our faith and test our endurance.
It is in the difficult seasons that some of us question God’s plans. We often ask why doors close, why prayers seem delayed, and why we must face storms instead of calm waters. Through scripture, we are assured that all things—not just the good, but also the painful—are working together for our good. Seasons of hardship often prune us, stripping away what hinders us so we can grow stronger and bear more fruit (John 15:2).
When we embrace each season as part of God’s design, we learn valuable, long-lasting lessons. These lessons are not just for us, but for others to see how faith in God works. Waiting builds patience, loss deepens compassion, trials produce perseverance, and joy teaches us gratitude. Every season, whether it is filled with sunshine or rain, helps to shape us into who God has purposed us to be. One thing we must remember is that seasons do not last forever.
Winter always gives way to spring, and your present struggle will not define your story. God is using every circumstance to mold you, refine you, and prepare you for His greater purpose.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for the changing seasons of our lives. Help us trust that even in the struggles, You are working for our good. Teach us to embrace every season as an opportunity to grow closer to You. Amen.
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2025-10-15 | "The Power of Grace"
by Reverend Taylor Stokes
“But where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.”
Grace is the heartbeat of God’s relationship with humanity. It is His undeserved favor that reaches down to us when we cannot reach up to Him. Grace is not something we earn through good works or moral effort—it is freely given through Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul reminds us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8, NKJV). Grace rescues us from sin, restores us to fellowship with God, and empowers us to live in righteousness.
Grace is not just pardon—it is power. It transforms hearts, renews minds, and teaches us to walk in godliness. Titus 2:11 (NKJV) says, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” Grace does not leave us as we are; it molds us into who God created us to be.
Grace transforms us from within, renewing our hearts and minds. It shapes our character, aligns our desires with God’s will, and empowers us to live in Christlike obedience and purpose.
When life feels overwhelming or when we fall short, grace reminds us that God’s love is steadfast and adequate. His grace lifts us from guilt to gratitude, from failure to faith, from weakness to strength. No matter where we have been or what we have done, grace still finds us.
Let today be a reminder: God’s grace is enough— “my grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NKJV). It saves, sustains, and sanctifies. Rest in that truth, and let His grace shape your words, actions, and heart.
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2025-10-14 | "Looking Back"
by Beverley Alleyne
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians shared that he is forgetting his past and instead pressing forward to what lies ahead. Paul’s past was filled with terror that he inflicted on people of the “the Way.” He made bad decisions that caused hurt to others. He was also fully aware of the transformation that took place in his life after encountering God. He chose not to dwell on the past. He focused on the fact that God forgives our sins and provides a new way.
Paul is writing to encourage the Philippians and us to make the same choice. Your Heavenly Father is fully aware of all your thoughts before they are formed in your minds. He knows your past and current behaviors and feelings. He is fully aware of your situation and lovingly offers forgiveness and restoration.
Living in the past brings regrets and missed blessings. It is a weapon of the enemy, robbing your joy. Just like Jesus, you can use the Word of God to defeat the enemy. Isaiah 43:18-19 instructs us not to remember the former things but to look forward, because God is doing a new thing. Resist dwelling on the past because God promises to give new and better things.
Remember that since you are “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, you can also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and run with endurance the race that is set before you looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of your faith...” (Hebrews 12:1-2, ESV ).
Look back only to reflect that Jesus died, rose again, and offers eternal life.
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2025-10-13 | "Never Forget"
by Reverend Grover Whittington
“As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.”
As believers, we understand that God knows everything about us. He knows all of our faults and failures; He knows our strengths and our weaknesses. We may be able to hide the things in our lives that bring us shame from others, but God knows them all. He knows our physical struggles and our mental weaknesses. However, despite our unworthiness, He still sent His Son to die on the cross for us, in order that we may have a way for an intimate relationship with Him.
Our relationship with the Lord is not based upon anything that we have done or will do, but it is based on His love for us. He desires us to come to Him with all our problems, and He has promised to take care of us. This promise is not because of our righteousness, but it is because of the inherent righteousness that we receive through Jesus Christ. We must never forget that God cares for each and every one of us who have made our profession of faith in Him, through Christ Jesus.
The knowledge of the Lord’s compassion towards us is something that carries us through the trials and tribulations that we experience in this life. More than any earthly possessions, it is the love of God that gives us the strength to make it through each day. Regardless of how difficult the times may become, being a child of God gives us a sense of peace that the world simply cannot understand. It is an encouraging thought to know that the Lord cares for us.
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