Celebrating Love: A Reflection on Marriage and God's Love

 

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:34-35 (NIV)

Dear friends,

As we celebrate this season of love, I want to take a moment to reflect on the profound gift of love, both in marriage and in the greater love of God. On Valentine’s Day, we often celebrate the love we share with our spouses, but let us also remember the ultimate source of love, the love that flows from our Creator.

In marriage, we experience a reflection of God's love for us. The love between spouses is meant to be a picture of the unwavering, sacrificial love that God shows God's people. As it is written in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." These words remind us that love in marriage, like God's love, should be unconditional and enduring.

But above all, let us not forget the depth of God's love for us. John 3:16 tells us, "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." This divine love is not bound by time or circumstance; it is freely given, without expectation, and is the foundation of all the love we share with others.

On this Valentine’s Day, may we celebrate not only the love between us as spouses but also the love that God has lavished upon us, a love that empowers and transforms.

With love and blessings,

Pastor Richard

God’s Faithfulness in Every Season

 

Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness."

As we step into 2025, we can be confident in God’s faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 is a beautiful reminder that God’s love and compassion never fail. No matter what we’ve faced in the past or will face in the future, God's faithfulness is constant. Each morning, we are given a fresh supply of grace and mercy, and each new day is an opportunity to experience love anew.

This year, let’s focus on God’s unchanging nature. While the world around us may change, God remains faithful. God's love is not dependent on our circumstances but is always present, always available. No matter the season of life you find yourself in, God's faithfulness is sure.

Let this year be one where we grow deeper in our understanding of God’s unwavering love. Let us live with the assurance that God is with us every step of the way, and His mercies are new every morning.

Prayer:
Loving God, thank You for Your constant love and faithfulness. I trust that You are with me in every season and that Your mercies are new each day. Help me to rely on Your unfailing love and to see Your hand at work in my life. Thank You for being my faithful companion as I begin this new year. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Renewed Strength

 Scripture: Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

"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."

The beginning of a new year can often be a time of feeling both excited and exhausted. The weight of past struggles and the uncertainty of the future can cause us to feel weary. Yet, Isaiah 40:31 gives us a powerful reminder that when we place our hope in the Lord, our strength is renewed.

God’s strength is limitless, and promises that those who hope will rise above their circumstances. Like an eagle soaring high above the storm, we too can rise above the challenges we face. God doesn’t just give us strength to endure; God provides a strength that allows us to soar.

As we embark on 2025, let’s remember that our source of strength is not our own. We are invited to rely on God’s abundant grace and power. When we feel weak, God lifts us up. When we feel tired, God refreshes us. Let this year be a year of renewed strength, as we trust in God's provision and ability to carry us through.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being my source of strength. When I feel weary and worn, I will place my hope in You. Renew my strength and help me to rise above my challenges. I trust that You will carry me through this year, and I look forward to the strength You will provide. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Sermon Notes: We Are Truly Blessed - A Reflection on God's Blessings

 

Habakkuk 3:17-18 challenges the understanding of blessings. Despite devastating circumstances—failed crops, empty stalls, and economic ruin—Habakkuk chooses to rejoice in the Lord. In today’s culture, where blessings are often equated with material success, such faith seems almost absurd. Social media’s misuse of “#blessed” highlights this, often turning gratitude into veiled boasting. Yet true blessings transcend possessions, achievements, or favorable circumstances.

The Bible reveals that God is both the source and substance of all blessings. Numbers 6:24-26 reminds us that God’s blessings involve active presence, grace, and peace. Blessing is not about acquiring things; it is about being in a relationship with the Giver of every perfect gift (James 1:17). To be truly blessed means knowing God’s face is turned toward creation, radiating love and approval.

When blessings are sought, it is an invitation for God to be present in every aspect of life—work, struggles, and plans—acknowledging that all good flows from divine provision. This act of surrender trusts in a greater purpose and love, even when life’s path diverges from personal expectations (Romans 8:28).

Moreover, being blessed is not dependent on favorable circumstances. In challenges, God’s presence becomes more tangible, grace sustains, and peace provides stability. Difficult seasons reveal blessings in unexpected ways, anchoring faith in the unchanging nature of God rather than the shifting conditions of life. As Psalm 23:4 reflects, comfort is most profound in life’s darkest valleys.

Habakkuk’s declaration is not foolish but profoundly wise: true blessing lies in rejoicing in God, regardless of circumstances. To be blessed is to be united with Christ, secure in divine love and kept for sacred purposes. This assurance allows for bold declarations of blessing—not because of what is possessed, but because of who God is and what God has done.

Let life reflect this truth—living as those deeply, truly, and eternally blessed. Whether in abundance or adversity, rejoicing in God becomes an act of faith that transcends the temporary and anchors the soul in eternal gratitude.

Prayer:
Gracious God, thank You for blessings that are eternal and unshakable. Help us rest in grace, embrace divine love, and live with gratitude. Sustain us in struggles and fill us with hope, trusting that nothing can separate us from the love found in Christ. Amen.

Devotional: Blessed in Hardship

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4).

Even in life’s hardest moments, we can call ourselves blessed because of God’s presence. Challenges often deepen our awareness of God’s care. Numbers 6:26 assures us that God’s face is turned toward us, offering peace and grace.

Hardship can feel overwhelming, but it is often in these times that God’s blessings shine brightest. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul reminds us that God’s grace is sufficient, and God’s power is made perfect in weakness. Difficult seasons draw us closer to God, revealing a deeper sense of peace and companionship.

Today, if you face trials, remember that God’s blessings remain. God’s comfort and strength are with you, even in the darkest valleys.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your presence in my struggles. When life is hard, help me see Your hand at work and trust in Your sustaining grace. Amen.

Devotional: The Substance of Blessing

"The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you" (Numbers 6:25).

True blessing is not just receiving good things; it is experiencing more of God. Numbers 6 shows us the heart of blessing: God’s face shining upon us, a sign of approval and grace. The greatest gift we can receive is not possessions or achievements but God’s presence.

When we ask for God’s blessing, we are inviting God into every area of our lives. Whether it is our work, relationships, or plans, we acknowledge that God’s purposes are greater than ours. God’s presence in the ordinary transforms it into the extraordinary. Blessing reminds us that God is actively involved in our lives, guiding and shaping us.

As you reflect on your day, invite God into your plans and decisions. Trust that God’s presence will bring peace and direction.

Prayer: Gracious God, I seek more of You in my life. Let Your face shine upon me and guide me in all I do. May Your presence be my greatest joy and comfort. Amen.

Devotional: The Source of Blessing

 

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights" (James 1:17).

From the beginning, God’s Word assures us that every blessing originates with God. Numbers 6:24–26 reveals God’s intention to bless: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.” These words show God’s active role in our lives as the source of all goodness. God’s blessings are not random or earned; they are evidence of God’s grace and love. God’s blessing secures us, extends peace, and keeps us in God’s care.

Think about the blessings in your life—big and small. Health, relationships, provision, and hope are signs of God’s favor. Even in challenging times, God’s blessings sustain us. Today, pause to reflect on the ways God has shown love and care. Acknowledge that every good thing in your life flows from God’s hand.

Prayer: God, thank You for being the source of all that is good in my life. Your blessings surround me, even when I fail to see them. Help me recognize Your presence and live with gratitude for Your care. Amen.