Preacher Paul's Blogs

This Sunday’s sermon is titled "The Gift of Rest and Its Importance" and is based on Deuteronomy 5:15 . With Labor Day approaching, we often find ourselves reflecting on the balance between work and rest. This Sunday, we will dive into the biblical foundation of rest as a commandment from God, who not only liberated the Israelites from slavery but also commanded them to observe the Sabbath as a day of rest. We will explore how rest is not just a personal benefit but a gift from God meant for all of us.  It is a time to step back from our busyness and reflect on God's goodness. We will discuss the consequences of ignoring rest, such as burnout and strained relationships, and how embracing rest can be an act of faith and trust in God.  As you prepare for the upcoming service, I invite you to consider these questions:  How does your current approach to rest reflect your trust in God’s provision?  In what ways can you more intentionally observe Sabbath rest in your life ...

This week, we continue our Summer Sermon Series on “Favorite Childhood Bible Stories”.  Sunday, we will delve into the Parable of the Lost Sheep from Matthew 18:12-14, focusing on the theme "Lost and Found: The Shepherd's Relentless Love." This passage reminds us of the profound love God has for each of us, even when we stray from the path. Like the shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost, God actively seeks us out, rejoicing when we return. This parable speaks to our tendency to wander, whether through distractions, busyness, or even spiritual complacency. Yet, it also reassures us that no matter how far we may drift, Jesus, our Good Shepherd, is always searching for us, ready to bring us back into the fold. As you prepare your hearts for Sunday’s message, I encourage you to reflect on areas of your life where you might feel distant from God.  Are there ways in which you’ve gradually become "lost," perhaps without even realizing i...

 As we continue our summer sermon series on "Favorite Childhood Bible Stories," this Sunday we’ll be diving into the powerful story of Jesus calming the storm, found in Mark 4:35-41. In the midst of a sudden and violent storm, the disciples were gripped by fear and uncertainty, questioning whether Jesus even cared about their peril. Yet, with just a word, Jesus stilled the storm and brought peace to their hearts. This story isn’t just about a miraculous event on the Sea of Galilee; it’s about the presence and power of Jesus in our own lives, especially when we face the storms of stress, doubt, and fear. As we reflect on this passage, we’ll explore how Jesus’ response to the storm challenges us to trust in God’s care even when life feels overwhelming. As you prepare for this Sunday, I invite you to consider these questions:  What storms are you facing in your life right now, and how might you invite Jesus into those moments of fear and uncertainty?  How can you be a calmin...

This Sunday, we continue our Summer Sermon series on “Favorite Childhood Bible Stories”.  We will look at one of the most captivating stories in the Old Testament - Daniel in the lion's den. Our scripture focus will be Daniel 6:16-26 , a passage that illustrates the power of unwavering faith and the impact of a life dedicated to God. We'll explore how Daniel's steadfast commitment to prayer and his uncompromising faith not only saved him from certain death but also led to a profound transformation in King Darius and his kingdom. Through Daniel's example, we'll consider how our own lives can serve as (sometimes silent) witnesses to God's love and power. We'll reflect on the language of faith, how our actions often speak louder than our words, and how living out our beliefs can inspire others to seek God. As you prepare for Sunday's message, I encourage you to ponder these questions: In what areas of your life might God be calling you to stand firm in your...