As we are fresh into a New Year, we seemingly face an uncertain future.  Our Nation is in a “free-fall” of moral decay.  Our brothers and sisters in Christ in other parts of the world are facing persecution comparable to the early church.  We continue to face terrorism in our Nation and around the world. Our economy is “uncertain” at best.  Does this take Jesus all by surprise?  Does this leave us without hope for the future?  No, says, “…the first and the last, who was dead, and came to life:  ‘I know…’”

 (cf.Revelation 2: 8-9)   Jesus knows what you and I are going through, facing and going to face.  Jesus says, “do not fear…be faithful until death and I will give you the crown of life.” (cf. Revelation 2: 10)   The bible says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” - 2 Timothy 1:7   You see, our hope is not in this life, but the one to come.  Jesus says, “…he who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” (cf. Revelation 2: 11b)   We are “overcomers” because Jesus overcame the world for us!   Jesus defeated our last enemy - death! There is hope for today, tomorrow and beyond the grave because of Jesus Christ!  This New Year let us examine ourselves spiritually, making sure of our salvation (cf 1 John 5:13), and let us keep Jesus the main thing - looking unto the “author and finisher” of our faith!  The enemy of our soul likes to use fear to hinder our walk.  Jesus says to you and me, “do not fear..”, but put our faith, your hope, your future, your trust in Me!

In His Service,

Pastor Rod