Beginnings

 As school and college get started again, it brings to mind a great truth.  “Begin with the end in mind”--That's one of Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People."  It is sound advice. . .for families and career people and most certainly students.  Set your sights on goals that last, then live each day focusing on the priorities that live out those goals.  It is also true of faith.  Paul challenges us to make faith In God a top priority in our lives.  As we live in faith we will find that faith empowers our daily life in incredible ways, enabling us to face challenges, live more abundantly, live with right priorities, and love more deeply.   Make faith a priority in your life, and ask God to help you strive for things that last for all eternity.  Trust God to give you strength to overcome the challenges of life and take you places you never even dreamed of . . .
 
(Verse of the week)
I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me...forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3.12-14)
 
(Prayer of the week)
Gracious God, help me to rediscover the joy of living in faith and trust in you.  Help me to focus on things that last for eternity.  Help me to trust in your love and power.  Through your power I am strong and well-able to overcome.  Open my heart to your love and make me a blessing to others every day, through your power and to your glory.  Amen.
                                                                   
Open your heart to God’s amazing love!-Pastor TJ
 
(quote of the week)
Faith is a living daring confidence in God's grace.  It is
so certain that a [person] could stake his [or her] life
on it a thousand times." -Martin Luther