31 Jul

Be Encouraged

Posted by sandhillspastor in Assurance, Faith, Holy Spirit, Hope, Peace, Trials.

Dear friends,

Our camping trip last week was interesting as usual. My best laid plans usually go awry somewhere along the way, and this was no exception. The first and most important lesson learned; find out about water availability before leveling and unhooking the camper, especially when it is 95 degrees out and there is no breeze! After solving that issue, things went reasonably well. We’ll wait for cooler weather before venturing out again.

On a more serious note, it has again been brought to my attention through various conversations this week, that there are many people dealing with the difficulties of life. Health issues, relational issues, economic trials, and nasty weather are just a few I could name. The passage of scripture referenced in church this morning seems appropriate for a devotional lesson.

I have used these verses before but am drawn back to them this week. “For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. Not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the firstfruits—we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. Now in this hope we were saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? Now if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience. In the same way the Spirit also helps us in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings (Romans 8:22-26).

When the cares of the world begin to weigh heavily on us, we feel weak and defeated. We cannot even find the words we want to say to God and this scripture tells us that God’s Holy Spirit will help us. He will bring our prayer requests to the Lord with the clarity we are unable to put into words. God knows our needs, even if all we can make are groaning sounds as we pray.

The next verse encourages us in those times of groaning under our burdens in this way, “And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because he intercedes for the saints according to the will of God (verse 27).

Take heart in your trials, God hears and understands your groanings.

In His grip,

Pastor Jerry

24 Jul

Meetings that Matter

Posted by sandhillspastor in Blessings, Family of God, Fellowship, Gospel, Great Commission, Worship.

Dear friends,

July is passing quickly it seems. We have had some decent rainfall but can always use more. If the forecast for the next week holds true, we are in for some very hot temperatures. We will be glad for air-conditioning for sure. Our plan for the first few days this week is to go camping at Victoria Springs. If I had checked the forecast before reserving our spot, I might have changed my mind.

Update: I saw the doctor last week for a follow-up visit and he told me to see him in a year. He is pleased with the result, and positive the aneurism is no longer a concern. Praise the Lord!

I had an interesting conversation with a lady while in the clinic waiting room. She said she would be 102 years old in August. We shared some experiences we each have had, and some of them were quite similar. She and her late husband had been farmers during the mid-eighties and went through tough economic times just as my family had. She and her husband came to faith in Jesus during that time, as did Milrae and I. Our conversation ended when I was called back to see the doctor. Before I left the lady said, “We’ll meet again.” To which I replied, “yes we will.”  It is great to have that common bond in the Lord Jesus, and to know that as believers in Him we will all meet again in heaven.

We never know when a conversation will turn to things of a spiritual nature. We who are believers in the Lord Jesus are told to be lights in our surroundings and in our culture. The old saying is we are just beggars telling other beggars where to find bread. We never get anyone saved, that is the Lord’s work, but we can show them the way. I was once told we only make the sales pitch; God seals the deal.

Jesus’ words: I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life. I am the bread of life. Your forefathers ate the manna in the desert, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes from heaven, which a man may eat and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever” (John 6:47-51).

Blessings,

Pastor Jerry

17 Jul

Re-Creation

Posted by sandhillspastor in Best Life, Christian Living, Obedience, renewal, Rest, Stewardship, Work, Worship.

Dear friends,

Weekends at the lake remain busy. From Friday to Sunday, the river, the lake, and the streets are filled with people enjoying the summer days. The rest of the week is less busy, but there are still those who can get away for a few days. As someone who used to see Sunday as just another day to work, I wonder how many give a thought to the Lord on His day as they seek recreation and enjoy God’s creation.

The word ‘recreation’ gives the idea of something being re-created, that is, to be restored or made new. One would think that God’s command to observe a day of rest might remind us that we need rest from our work. God did not rest because he was tired, he did it as an example for us to follow. That one day was set aside for God’s people to focus on Him. There was to be no work, but time to honor the Creator.

In the Ten Commandments, there was not only the one concerning a day of rest, but there was also one that forbade the worship of idols. An idol is anything that takes the place of God in worship. Could the lake become an idol? How about a nice bass boat, or maybe the sporting event that keeps us from attending worship service on the Lord’s Day? (Exodus 20:1-9).                

Our work becomes an idol if it keeps us from putting God first in our lives. I used to ask the question, if I feel I need to be making hay on Sunday, is that Bale worship (play on words there); or if I think I need to be present when each calf is born, is that worshiping the calf? Remember, Israel got in a heap of trouble with a golden calf idol.

I’m not trying to lay a guilt trip on anyone here, just a reminder to check our priorities to see if there is something that is taking the place God has reserved for Himself. I am not opposed to taking time to renew and recharge our batteries, so to speak. I am just encouraging you to take time to put the important thing at the top of the list. Everything else will fall into its proper place and God will be given what He desires from his people, their worship.

Just thinking,

Pastor Jerry

10 Jul

Storms of Life

Posted by sandhillspastor in Assurance, Creation, Eternity, Faith, Heaven, renewal, The Good News.

Dear friends,

After the long 4th of July holiday weekend, it seemed like just three days later we arrived at another weekend. By all reports the long weekend was a success. A large number of residents and guests enjoyed a great fireworks display and many memories were made. During the week we received some nice rain. Early Friday morning my gauge showed an even two inches. It was very much needed, and there is room for more. On the flip side, there were damaging storms in the panhandle with hail that destroyed crops.

Nature is unpredictable, and we are told in the Bible that God’s creation is broken. We are also told that at some time future, the earth will be restored to newness, and those who believed in Jesus for salvation will get to experience this new earth. All this is of little consolation to those whose crops lie in ruin, but better times are coming. Many years ago, we were looking at a bumper corn crop, when a hailstorm near the end of July left only bare stalks. As they say, if it weren’t for next year, farmers and ranchers would give up. So, the next year, we harvested a nice crop of corn again.

To quote a passage of scripture; “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently (Romans 8:22-25).

God will have the last word, as reported by the apostle John in his revelation from Jesus: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I say the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people” (Revelation 21:1-3).

In Him,

Pastor Jerry

3 Jul

Freedom

Posted by sandhillspastor in Best Life, Christian Living, Freedom, Praise.

Dear friends,

It’s another of those early copy weeks, so I will try to write something that makes sense on short notice. I am back to normal after my visit to the fine medical professionals in Omaha last week. I am continually impressed by the gifted doctors, nurses and others who have chosen to make medicine their career choice. I have nothing but highest regard for every one of them.

The Independence Day holiday will be celebrated in grand style here at Lake Ericson and in the village of Ericson. We have it all, from fireworks to food, from parades to a junior rodeo. There is an avenue of flags along the lake front that is nothing but inspiring. There are games at the lake and a street dance in town. A visit to our little community is well worth your time.

As we read and hear the negative news about what is going on in our country, it is easy to become disillusioned with the things that we see. I believe the USA has been, is today, and will be in the future the best country in the world. Who we are and how we came to be what we are as a country is why we can celebrate this thing called Independence Day.

As we celebrate, we must not become complacent, but be ever vigilant to defend our God-given rights and freedoms. Let us be informed about government and politics and raise our voices in support of the Constitution and the American way. As Christians, we cannot sit idly by while the enemies of morality and the truth of God’s Word trample them in the dust.

In Galatians we are told that through faith in Christ we have been set free from the bondage of sin. We are also reminded not to use that freedom to keep sinning, but to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:1, 13).

Also, we find this command: Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone; Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king (1 Peter 2:16-17).

So, on Independence Day and every day, stand tall and be proud of our country. Thank God for those who founded and defended her, and pray God bless America, again!

For God and for country,

Pastor Jerry

26 Jun

Security

Posted by sandhillspastor in Assurance, Peace, Praise, Trust.

Dear friends,

The last week was mostly spent preparing to be gone for a few days. The garden was covered with hail screen (in case of hail). Shade was provided for the cucumbers (in case of too much hot sun), and everything was given a last watering (in case it didn’t rain). The reason for all this was so I could go to Omaha and get a final repair to the aortic aneurysm we have been watching for the last several years. I can report the procedure was successful, so that concern is behind us.

N.M.C. is an interesting place (to say the least). How anyone can find their way around that place is beyond this old country boy. We stayed in what is called Nebraska House, what I think is a floor of patient rooms converted to sleeping quarters, like motel rooms. There is a shuttle service supplied by the Med Center. At 5 A.M. the shuttle vehicle is an SUV staffed by two security guards. We were picked up by them and dropped off at the entrance to Clarkson Hospital. As Milrae and I were entering the vehicle, those two men were on high alert, searching their surroundings until we were seated in the back. I had the feeling of being a K-9 officer in its barred cage. We were securely in the care of these two young men.

This got me thinking about where we are most secure. Is it at home or in our car? With family or friends? Or is it in an SUV escorted by two armed guards? Obviously, homes can be broken into and there is safety in numbers to a point. Security guards cannot stay on high alert indefinitely because they will need to sleep eventually. As a matter of fact, the only secure place in the universe is in the arms of our Lord.

“Lead me to a rock that is high above me, for you have been a refuge for me, a strong tower in the face of the enemy. I will dwell in your rent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings” (Psalm 61:2-4).

“He will not allow your foot to slip, your protector will not slumber. Indeed, the protector of Israel does not slumber or sleep” (Psalm 121:3-4).

Is your security in the Lord? He’s always awake and alert!

In His grip,

Pastor Jerry

19 Jun

Justified

Posted by sandhillspastor in Assurance, Best Life, Blessings, Faith, Gospel, Hope, Peace, The Good News.

Dear readers,

We have received wonderful rain! Amounts vary, but most places near to us have seen some moisture. Friday and Saturday our gauge showed just over 1.5 inches. The garden is happy! The camper has been cleansed of the evidence left behind by some mice who lived there last winter. We are now ready for the next adventure. Several memories were made on the last journey, most of which centered around the absent mindedness of a certain elderly man.

The Bible tells us that when a person puts his or her faith in Jesus Christ for salvation, that person is declared righteous because God sees that person as being covered by the righteousness of Christ. The term used is justification. What follows are some results of the believer being justified in the eyes of God.

We have peace. “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1) There was a time we were God’s enemies because of unbelief, now in Christ we have peace with God (Romans 5:10). Peace with God means our problem with sin has been settled by the blood of Christ.

We have access to God. “Through whom we have gained access by faith into the grace in which we now stand” (Romans 5:2a) Before our salvation we were condemned; but now in Christ, we have perfect standing before God and can enter his presence (Hebrews 10:19-25).

We have hope. “And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:2b). The unsaved person is “without hope” (Ephesians 2:11-12). Through faith in Christ, we have the sure knowledge of eternity with him.

We have confidence in the trials of life. “Not only so, but we also rejoiced in our sufferings” (Romans 5:3). We know for certain that in those trials God is with us, because of our relationship with Christ (Romans 5:3-4).

We experience the love of God. “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God showed us his love at the cross when Christ died for those who were without strength, who were ungodly, sinners, and enemies, thus proving His great love.

This is the gospel of Jesus Christ, who came as the only one who could save us from our sin. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

In Him,

Pastor Jerry

12 Jun

Enjoying Life

Posted by sandhillspastor in Best Life, Blessings, Contentment, Happiness, Praise, Reward.

Dear friends,

We had an enjoyable weekend with Alex, Breanna, and Maria. We were supposed to park the camper on a new concrete pad at their house, but Alex sent a message early Friday morning to inform me they had received heavy rains in the night. This resulted in making reservations at the local KOA, and when I saw Alex’s driveway, I was glad I did. I helped him add handrails on the outdoor stairs and a railing around the landing. It looked nice when we were done, not elegant but functional for sure.

When we got the camper set up, we discovered that some furry rodents had been living in the kitchen drawers over winter. This is not something you wish to find when looking forward to a relaxing evening. There will be some serious cleaning done now that we are home again. There were some other incidents that resulted from my not paying attention, but more on those in another column.

In our recent travels, we have noticed an abundance of yucca plants. They are blooming profusely this year. It is just my thinking, but I wonder if it is because of the drought conditions? Some plants thrive in those situations, including most cactus plants. In areas where there has been rain, the pastures and meadows are doing well also. Rain always improves a lot of things, including the attitudes of farmers and ranchers.

As we travel and observe creation, I am taken to the words of David in Psalm 145: I exalt you, my God the King, and bless your name forever and ever.

I will bless you every day; I will praise your name forever and ever.

The Lord is great and is highly praised, his greatness is highly praised,

His greatness is unsearchable.

One generation will declare your works the next and will proclaim your   mighty acts.

I will speak of your splendor and glorious majesty and you and your wondrous works.

They will give testimony of your great goodness and will joyfully sing of   your righteousness.

The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and great in faithful love.

The Lord is good to everyone; his compassion rests on all he has made.

All you have made will thank you, Lord; the faithful will bless you.

Psalm 145:1-10).

For more blessings, read the rest of the psalm.

Be blessed,

Pastor Jerry

5 Jun

Responsibilities

Posted by sandhillspastor in Christian Living, Culture, Obedience, Politics, Service, Stewardship, Work.

Dear friends,

How can it be that we are already five months into 2023? I must be having fun, because the time has flown by. In news from our little corner of the world, Milrae has recovered well from having two knee replacement surgeries. After her checkup Friday, she was told to come back in a year. I’m now married to a bionic woman!

We had very little rain this past week, and it appears we will be busy watering the lawn and the garden if it stays warm and dry. The vegetable plants are off to a good start, and we pray that trend continues.

It is interesting to read the news headlines from a Christian, or biblical worldview. After the recent passage of legislation allowing the federal government to raise the debt ceiling, there were comments concerning the idea that people need to work in order to receive some forms of financial aid. The media seemed to think that the idea was some antiquated saying that is not relevant to our current time.

I’m sure it will be a surprise to some that this concept of working to earn your food comes from the Bible. The apostle Paul writing to Christians waiting for the Lord’s return, was rather direct as he encouraged his readers to not just sit around looking up in the sky waiting for Jesus to come again. He stressed the fact that as we wait for the Lord to return, we are to keep on making a living and doing his work. He says to his readers, “In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat. For we hear that there are some among you who are idle. They are not busy but busybodies. Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and provide for themselves” (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).

In another place we read that we are to care for those who can’t help themselves. “Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress… (James 1:27).

In summary, it is good to seek to care for those in need, but those who are able-bodied and healthy are to work for their food and other needs.

In His unending love,

Pastor Jerry

29 May

Remembering

Posted by sandhillspastor in Eternal Life, Freedom, Memorial Day, Salvation, Service.

Dear friends,

I trust you have had a time of somber reflection this past weekend, remembering those who gave their lives in service to America. Without their sacrifice, I fear we would have none of the freedoms we have today. Therefore, we must be ever vigilant to preserve those liberties because there are those who would take many of them away.

There were many families who spent the weekend enjoying the activities at Lake Ericson. It may not be the biggest lake in our area, but in our eyes, it is the best. There were games, a food trailer, and a movie after dark at the carousel. In addition, there was fishing, boating, and just relaxing around the many campfires.

As I was contemplating the sacrifices made on behalf of America, I was reminded once again of the sacrifice of our Lord, who came to give His life to free us from the bondage of sin. God’s greatest gift to mankind was to give His only Son as payment for our sin debt. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21).

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).

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so, He condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us… (Romans 8:1-4b).

America’s military heroes died to preserve our way of life; Jesus Christ died on a cross to give us eternal life, if only we will believe.

God Bless America!

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