Pastor’s Blog

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Accept God’s Grace – Romans 3:22-24

by Jim Jamison

The Bible tells the story of two brothers. From conception they were rivals, they were twins at birth; but never were two men more different. One was a “real man” he was a hunter, and outdoorsman. He was not committed to any one thing, but lived his life one day at a time. He did nothing that did not please him, but only did what he believed would get him the immediate results that craved. The other man, sort of a “momma’s boy.” He was careful and calculating to a fault. He carefully attempted to manipulate all circumstances to bring about the outcome that would best benefit him. Both men were living contrary to the Lord, but one man at least had a vision for what God might offer. This account is found in the book of Genesis. What made Jacob benefit from God’s offer? It was the Grace of God. Even Jacob’s name means, “schemer or manipulator”, there is nothing in Jacob that would manifest goodness. Yet, it is the Grace of God that permits both young men the opportunity to be born into the line of Abraham. Jacob does not turn to God because of his goodness, He … READ MORE

The Sweetness of longing for our Eternal Home – 1 Peter 1:6

by Jim Jamison

Facing bitter circumstances is an important step in our journey. It requires courage and authenticity to acknowledge the painful aspects of living in this sin-cursed world. Yet there is a corresponding depth of relationship with Jesus available to all who will be honest about the struggle. As a minister of the gospel, I have been called upon to minister to people whose circumstances will not improve in this life apart from a miraculous intervention from God. At such times the bitter circumstances of what they are facing is strong and pungent. 1 Peter reminds us that trials are only for “a little while” the problem with some trials are that they last for the rest of our lives here on earth. We do not always think about the sweetness of heaven when things are going well. However, when our lives are filled with bitter herbs, our hope of heaven can and must be our sweet refuge. Hard roads can actually be good if they lead to delightful destinations. Today, we are reminded that bitter circumstances will enable us to appreciate the promises of God, and see the mighty hand of God at work. We can rest in that understanding. … READ MORE

The sweetness of Drinking from Gods Word – Psalm 119:103

by Jim Jamison

People who have walked with God for many years can often point to times when Scripture has been especially precious to them. It is almost always during a time of bitter circumstances that the sweetness of God’s Word is especially evident. God gives us His Word to provide hope and comfort in the midst of a sin cursed world. often when I find myself struggling in the midst of my circumstances, I turn to the Psalms to find my hope and perspective. The Word of God in the Psalms were written by people who are struggling with the circumstances of their lives. The emotions that come through the Psalms often remind me of the emotions that I am currently struggling through. The hard part is to turn to them and begin reading, or turn to an app and allow the Psalms to be read to me. I am reminded that in Ephesians 5:18 that we are to learn to “walk in the Spirit.” We are reminded in verse 19 that “walking in the Spirit” is manifested by speaking to ourselves in “Psalms, hymns, and Spiritual songs.” If you find yourselves overwhelmed with your circumstances, I would encourage you to turn … READ MORE