Archive for the ‘Faith’ Category

20 Jul

He Will Return

Posted by sandhillspastor in End Times, Eternity, Faith, God's Word, Gospel, Salvation.

Hello friends,

The weather this past week has been sunny and hot! As predicted, it was a good week to stay close to the AC and thank the Lord for it. I’m old enough to remember the days before air conditioning, and I would never want to go back there.

Some days, it seems there is no good news. With all the political rhetoric, unrest, conflict in the world, earthquakes and other disasters one wonders what next? However, as the old saying goes, there is nothing new under the sun. This was written by Solomon centuries ago. Ecclesiastes 1:9 reads, “What has been done will be again; there is nothing new under the sun.” My late mother-in-law insisted that some of the things we are seeing today weren’t done in her day. Perhaps they weren’t front page news, but as Solomon said, “there is nothing new.”

The Bible tells us these things will be increasing as time goes on, and at some point, it will all come to an end with the return of the Lord Jesus. That time has not come, and only God knows when that will be, but it will happen, we have His word on it.

The apostle Peter wrote in his second epistle, “Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, ‘Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation’. But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly… The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:3-9).

Many years ago, I heard a man say, “Someday the Lord will come back and straighten out this mess,” That day is closer than ever. If you do not know Him, now is the time to seek Him and accept His salvation. He will return, count on it.

In Truth,

Pastor Jerry

13 Jul

A Note From God

Posted by sandhillspastor in Bible, Christian Living, Discipleship, Eternal Life, Faith, God's Word.

Dear readers,

Our days can be described in one word. Hot! The forecast for the next week and beyond is for hot and dry conditions. This will be great for making hay and growing corn. As for me, I will spend most of my time in the presence of air conditioning.

Have you ever wished God would drop down a sticky note letting you know His plan for your life? Or maybe you would like to see it written in a fluffy cloud? Those plans and instructions on how to achieve them are already available for everyone. They can be found in His written word, the Bible.

The first thing He wants you to know is this: “For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” (The words of Jesus in John 6:40).

Believing in Jesus is the first step. The second is understanding and confessing that you are a sinner. Third, you must repent or turn from sinful ways. You will not do this on your own, but through the power of the Holy Spirit.

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved… For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:9-10, 13).

Jesus promised his disciples they would not be alone. He said this as He prepared to return to heaven, “If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with your forever—the Spirit of truth”…But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:15-17a; 26).

Obedience to His commands is the proof of our salvation. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:8-10).

In Him,

Pastor Jerry

6 Jul

America’s Future

Posted by sandhillspastor in Calling, Christian Living, Culture, Faith, Milestones, Witness.

Hello friends,

Well, the 4th of July celebrations are over. Here at Lake Ericson the weekend featured food, families, fellowship and fireworks. The fireworks display was one to be remembered, and I must not forget to mention the golf cart parade. There were some very creative entries for that.

It is remarkable that our country has been in existence for 250 years. There were those who said it couldn’t last, but here we are. As I see some of the things that are going on in America today, I wonder if we can continue as a nation. One thing I do know, if we stray much further from the Biblical principles upon which our country was created, how can the Lord continue to bless us?

There is a passage of scripture that was intended for Israel in the time of Solomon that I believe we can apply to our current situation. It reads, “If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14),

There are many voices out there promoting anti-Christian ideas and belittling the faith that we have been entrusted with. There are those who deny God’s existence and that we are here by some chance happening thousands of years ago. The apostle Paul addressed this in his second letter to Timothy.

He wrote concerning the last days: “People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness, but denying its power” (2 Timothy 2:2-5). All those things are taking the place of the one True God.

Many years ago, the question was asked, “Why is there no mention of the United States in prophecy?” The answer: “The United States will cease to exist.” This sounds harsh but considering the influx of false religions and ungodliness in our country today, it seems this is a distinct possibility.

“I felt compelled to write and encourage you to contend for the faith that was once and for all entrusted to God’s holy people” (Jude 3).

Keep the faith and preach Jesus.

In Him,

Pastor Jerry

22 Jun

Power Interrupted

Posted by sandhillspastor in Best Life, Blessings, Faith, God's Word, Humor, Trials, Trust.

Hello friends,

We were blessed with more rain Saturday night. My rain bucket registered almost three inches. There is a low spot on our property that catches the big rains. We have been just letting it soak away, but this time we brought out the sump pump I purchased when the crawl space under the house flooded a few years back. It appears this is going to be the answer to the excess water problem.

Along with the rain, when I woke up and looked for the clock, the red numbers weren’t there. The power had gone off around 4:30 AM and we were powerless, so to speak. Milrae has a CPAP machine while sleeping, and she woke up due to a lack of air. After some time waiting for the electricity to come back on, I decided to fire up the standby generator. This proved to be another adventure because we had stored it in the front of the garage behind some other things. I got it to the front door of the garage feeling pretty good about the situation, but wouldn’t you know, the battery on the generator was dead. I have a portable battery supply, but it didn’t work for some reason. After using jumper cables from the car battery, it started and as you might guess, soon the power came back on.

This reminds me of a truth that applies to the Christian life. The Lord Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

It is impossible to live the Christian life if we don’t remain connected to our source of strength. That strength comes from the indwelling Holy Spirit who comes into our heart at the moment of salvation. When we are unplugged from the power source, we are unable to live the life we are called to live.

When our electric lines are broken, we walk in darkness until that power is restored. It is the same with our connection to Almighty God. Without it, we are walking in darkness, but as we connect to Him the light returns.

The psalmist wrote: “You are my strength; I watch for you; you God are my fortress” (Psalm 59:9).

In His grip,

Pastor Jerry

15 Jun

The Race

Posted by sandhillspastor in Calling, Christian Living, Eternity, Faith, Obedience, Salvation.

Dear friends,

We had rain this weekend. I measured 3.27 inches here at our place. The 5k fun run was held Saturday morning after a one-hour rain delay. The streets were a bit muddy, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of the participants. Reports were that 75 runners were entered. Good times.

Did you know that Christians are called to enter a race? It is true, when a person trusts Jesus Christ as his or her Savior, that person is not called to sit on the sidelines and cheer others as they run by. We are called to do the work that God has planned for us.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:8-10).

The apostle Paul wrote of the race God had called him to run. In the book of Acts he wrote to the church, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24). To Timothy he wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Paul’s goal was always to run a good race, and he encouraged his readers to do the same: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24). I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14).

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:9-10).

Above all, we as believers are tasked with proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ, and the salvation He has provided. Let us not grow weary in that to which we are called.

In Christ,

Pastor Jerry

25 May

Memories

Posted by sandhillspastor in Faith, Freedom, Memorial Day, Witness.

Hello friends,

Now and then we have one of those holiday weeks when I have to put my mind in gear early to compose the devotional message. This month is the Memorial Day observance. It is a time set aside for us to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Over the years, the day has become a day to remember not only our deceased soldiers, but also family members who have gone on before us.

Our memories of loved ones have been given to us by our Creator. I can’t imagine not having the ability to bring up memories, good or bad. Obviously, we cherish the good memories, but the not-so-good have a purpose even if it is to recall lessons learned.

We have recalled memories that have us asking, “what was I thinking?” On a personal level, I have more of those than I care to list. The best memories are those that recall good times with family and friends as we grew up.

My lady and I took a road trip last week to visit the cemeteries where our family members are buried. Along the way, we stopped at our old home grounds where memories are somewhat fresh. A few tears were shed as we remembered good times and shared memories of hard times and good.

Later, as we visited graves there were more times of remembering those who have gone on before us. We cherish those memories, but we wouldn’t want to relive our lives. It is much better to look ahead in anticipation of things to come.

I am reminded of the words of the apostle Paul in Philippians 3:13: “Brothers and sisters, I do  not consider myself yet to haven taken hold of it But one thing I do; Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

God has called us to be saved and to live for Him. That goal to which Paul refers is eternal life. Looking back is good to remember our old ways, but we are to concentrate on our eternal reward. Living in the past is of no benefit. I have said many times, the best memorial we can leave our families is that we have trusted Christ and are in His presence.

In Him,

Pastor Jerry

18 May

Live Holy Lives

Posted by sandhillspastor in Christian Living, End Times, Faith, Planning, Second Coming.

Hello everyone,

Sunday is here again and it’s time for another devotional thought. Locally, we received a mere 27 hundredths of rain last night, but there is a possibility of more today. Hopefully the rough stuff stays away, and we just get beneficial moisture. Not much is happening locally. Volunteers have been busy here at the lake, getting ready for summer activities. If you’ve never been to Lake Ericson in summer, check us out at lakeericson.com.

All the things happening in the world remind me Jesus told His disciples to be aware of things that would precede his return for his church. They had asked Him what would be the sign of His coming.

Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains” (Matthew 24:4-8).

He went on to say, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:30).

The apostle Peter writes in his second letter, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promises, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief… and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming… But in keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth… So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him” (2 Peter 3:11-14).

Blessings,

Pastor Jerry

4 May

Seasons of Life

Posted by sandhillspastor in Faith, Grace, Milestones, On Aging, renewal, Trust.

Dear friends,

May has arrived. After last week’s rain, it is beginning to show signs of spring, and we are anticipating the appearance of May flowers. We are a little slow with the gardening this spring, due to the threat of frost still hanging on. The other limiting factor is the fact that we are older and slower.

Spring reminds me of the seasons of life. In the spring, we are newborns with our whole life ahead of us.

Summer reflects growth, both physical and mental. This is the time of life when we are most productive.

Then the fall season appears, when we begin to decline in strength and look forward to retirement. The Scriptures do not speak of retirement except in the context of relinquishing some of our responsibilities to younger workers. We are not in management anymore but continue assisting them in their work.

The last season is probably the hardest. Our usefulness is diminished and we understand that we are nearing the end of our earthly journey. Our bodies seem to have abandoned us to every kind of ailment and we spend much time at doctors’ appointments. Most of our social life is built around meeting our friends at the pharmacy.

Solomon wrote the following in Ecclesiastes. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2).

The apostle Paul had this observation: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14).

Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

In all the seasons of life let us keep heaven in mind. It is God’s will that we be saved for eternity through faith in Christ. (John 6:40).

In Christ

Pastor Jerry

27 Apr

He Is Our Peace

Posted by sandhillspastor in Assurance, Christian Living, Faith, Peace, Rest, Trials.

Hello all,

Rain! We have finally received some rain. Every drop is appreciated and we are hopeful the well has been primed and we are entering a period of beneficial rains. At last check we have just over an inch here at the lake and there is more forecast over the next few days. Now that the garden beds have been prepared, we can use a few warmer nights to warm up the soil. The garden person is getting impatient.

There is much discussion on the topic of peace these days. Areas of concern include the middle east, Iran, Israel, Ukraine. In our country there are conflicts between the political parties and even between communities and our neighbors on occasion.

The Bible mentions many conflicts and many promises of peace between various tribes, nations, and individuals. It seems peace treaties were only made to be broken. In the book of Judges, we read that Israel would get a new leader and the land would have peace for a period of time, only to get involved in another conflict. They would cry out to the Lord for a new judge, and the cycle would continue.

Isaiah prophesied that there would be One who would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of His government and peace, there will be no end” (Isaiah 9:6-7).

To His disciples, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). Further, He says, “I have told you these things, so that you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

True peace comes only by placing our faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul writes, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 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 minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7).

The promise is there. Trust in Christ and God’s peace will fill your hearts. “No Jesus, no peace. Know Jesus, know peace!”

In Him,

Pastor Jerry

30 Mar

Holy Week

Posted by sandhillspastor in Cross, Easter, Faith, Good Friday, Gospel.

Dear friends,

Our warm weather continues and still no precipitation of any consequence. The large fires in western Nebraska have been extinguished, but smaller blazes continue to pop up here and there. The balmy weekends show an increase in activity here at Lake Ericson andzss4444 I’m sure people are looking forward to spring and summer activities.

This morning (Sunday) we observed Palm Sunday in our church. At this time of year, Christians are reminded of the sacrifice the Lord Jesus provided when He died for our sins. From His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on that Sunday, to Good Friday and the Resurrection three days later we follow those events with gratitude and respect.

In Jesus’ day, there were those who believed He was who He said He was, but there were many more who had no idea that He was God in the flesh. They thought he was some kind of nut job, not worthy of their time. This same thinking prevails among many in our world today.

Some say Jesus was a great teacher, or just a good man. Some deny His deity, insisting that He was just a man like you and me. If we believe the Bible, we understand that He has always existed, He is God in human flesh, who came to die on a cruel cross so that those who believe will have eternal life.

In John’s gospel we read, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son” (John 3:16-18).

In Acts 4:12 we read, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Everyone since Adam and Eve is born with a sin nature. We are naturally sinners from birth, separated from God. The only way to restore that relationship is through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. Will you come to Him today, if you haven’t already?

In His grip,

Pastor Jerry

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