Pastor’s Perspective: “Perseverance”

Difficulty or delays can derail a work, a marriage, or a mission—even a good one. As we saw last week in Nehemiah 4, the wall of Jerusalem was half-finished when the workers became weary and discouraged. In chapters 5–6, we see a new strategy from the enemy to stop the work. But when grace was extended to family members and compromise with the enemy was avoided, the work was able to reach completion. How many times do we come so close to victory, healing, or restoration, only to miss out because we threw in the towel too soon?

Trials and testing will always be part of the life of a follower of Jesus. Counselors over the years have tried desperately to guide people to the obstacle-free path, only for us to discover a new challenge waiting around the next turn. We need to be discipled to come to Jesus, endure hardships, and be strengthened along the way. As our faith grows, so do our victories—and joy abounds.

Faithful discipleship and fellowship with God’s people will equip the saints for the work of ministry. Here are a few additional ways to help strengthen the sheepfold:

• This Saturday, July 26th, 7:30 AM – Men’s (and Boys ?) Breakfast:
  John Clark and Isaiah Greo will be sharing about their trip to Israel and the experience of being stuck in bunkers at the start of the 12-day war.
• Second Friday, August 8th – Music, Fellowship, and Q&A:
  This evening will include a time of music and fellowship, as well as a special sharing and Q&A session focused on antisemitism and our church’s support of Israel. If you have a question you’d like to discuss, visit the CCF app to submit it. Jewish missionaries Michael and Teresa Thomas will be joining us to provide insight and answers.

Much love—see you on Sunday!
Pastor Marv