Devoted

 

Wednesday, April 17th

Daily…

By Bob Elliott

As we are in the process of maturing in Christ, I can’t begin to tell you how important it is for us to establish a rhythm in our lives that makes bible reading and study a high priority on a regular daily basis.

The word of God is our guidebook to provide instruction and insight as to how we are to live out our days.

The great commission that Jesus gave is to go into the world and make disciples. That is a top priority, red letter words for us to consider. The direction and flow of the River Center is to make disciples. So, I humbly say that we need to get it. Bible reading isn’t just something that we do when we feel like it. The scriptures even say that we should read them daily.

He should keep it with him all the time and read from it every day of his life. Then he will learn to respect the Lord his God, and he will obey all the teachings and commands. Deuteronomy 17:19 (NCV)

I will admit that there is more to life and being a Christian than just reading the Bible, however, if we neglect the word, we are setting ourselves up to be lacking in maturity. Paul spoke of having to feed milk to believers who should have been much more mature.

The main reason for our leaderrship team providing a daily devotional is to provide an opportunity for all of our church to grow to maturity. We are committed to this process. Having said this, we need for our people to be responsive and connected to the flow of our posts.

 

The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us do what is right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (TLB)

Let’s be engaged in getting fully equipped to do good to everyone.

 

 

Tuesday, April 17, 2024

True Truth

by Lynn Koehn

John 17:17

Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.

 

Jesus prayed an amazing prayer just before his betrayal and arrest. First for himself, then his disciples and then for all his followers, you and me. You will be incredibly blessed and encouraged to read the entire prayer. John chapter 17.

 

In verse 17 Jesus makes a bold declaration that was critical to truly being a true disciple (follower) of Jesus; “your word is truth.” Jesus was confronting head-on the theory that “truth” is whatever you say or think it is. God’s word is “the truth.” It was then and still is today; “God’s truth.” Not my truth or your truth.

 

Ephesians 6:14a

Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist,

 

Truth is like the rudder on a giant ship—the thing that keeps the ship on track regardless of how high the waves or how strong the winds. A life that is not based on “true truth” (a phrase from Christian philosopher Francis Schaeffer) will be swayed and tossed about like a ship without a rudder.

 

Monday April 15th

A sure thing

By Jonah Lang

 

Hebrews 6 13-20

The Certainty of God’s Promise

13 When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself,14 saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants."] 15 And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.

16 People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument.17 Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. 18 God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. 19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, 20 where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.

 

I love how self- explanatory Hebrews is...

 

 

Thursday, April 11

Show me, Teach me, Guide me

By Galen Troyer

 

Show me your ways, O Lord,

teach me your paths;

guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are God my Savior,

and my hope is in you all day long.

Remember, O Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old.

Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways;

according to your love remember me, for you are good, O Lord. Ps. 25:4-7 (NIV)

 

Thousands of years have passed since David prayed this prayer, yet it remains as relevant for us today as it was back then. His prayers reveal his heart.

 

God was looking for a man after his own heart to lead his people when he chose David. (I Kings 13:14)

 

As long as the world lasts, God is looking for people “after his own heart.”

 

God loves hearing his children’s prayers; and our listening and obeying brings deeper relationship with him.

 

All our hope is in him…all day, every day!

 

 

Wednesday, April 10th

River (Center) of Life

By Bob Elliott

 

Recently I have been listening to the song River of Life by Mac Powell of the Third Day band. I like it that the lyrics of this song fits the picture of what the River Center looks like. Hence the play on words in the title of this post.

 

The Greek word for church in the New Testament is ecclesia. The meaning of the word is “called out ones.” There really isn’t much of a reference to a building. It was always about the people rather than a physical structure. It’s like the building is a sheep shed, not the center piece of a place of worship.

 

The emphasis is that the River Center is composed of all of the people who call us home. It is the relationships that we share that show the world that God is good.

 

During this season of time, lets make it a priority to stay connected to one another. Be in fellowship and care for all.

 

Here is the link to the song. Take some time to soak in the idea of the importance of relationships in the message of the lyrics.

Watch Video

 

 

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

God Listens and Hears Our Prayers

by Lynn Koehn

 

I love God’s promise to Jeremiah: This is what the Lord says, he who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it—the Lord is his name: ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:2-3 [NIV]

 

What an amazing promise for us to contemplate, meditate on and thank God for.

 

I love the Lord, because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy. Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live. Psalm 116: 1-2 [ESV]

 

We are invited to humbly yet boldly approach God’s throne of grace with confidence: knowing He listens, He hears and He responds to our prayers.

 

1 John 5:14; This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

 

John 9:31; We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will.

 

1 Peter 3:12; For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.

 

1 John 5:15; And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.

 

John 16:24; Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

 

I remember Batterson reminding us in his book, Draw the Circle that unanswered prayers are prayers that don’t get prayed. I would add, prayers that God doesn’t hear or listen to are also prayers that don’t get prayed.

 

Monday April 8th

A Kingdom People

By Jonah Lang

 

Hebrews 6:1

Therefore, let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death.

 

This is the start to understanding what God’s kingdom is and what it means to be kingdom people. It means understanding that all creation is required to worship God; not for what he has done but simply for who he is.

 

It means walking it grace and not going back to the foundation of repentance. It means desiring meat instead of milk. We must move forward into maturity.

 

 

Friday, April 5^th

This is What We Need

By Gary Bittner

 

Hi River Center,

This is intentional, this is imperative, this is life changing.

This, this is what brings His perspective, which we all need.

 

TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS

 

O soul are you weary and troubled
No light in the darkness you see
There's light for a look at the Savior
And life more abundant and free

 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of his glory and grace

 

His word shall not fail you he promised
Believe him and all will be well
Then go to a world that is dying
His perfect salvation to tell

 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of his glory and grace

 

O soul are you weary and troubled
No light in the darkness you see
There's light for a look at the Savior
And life more abundant and free

 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of his glory and grace

 

 

https://youtu.be/l-XpDh9ujXs

 

 

God bless,

Gary B.

 

 

 

Thursday, April 4th

Be Strong

By Galen Troyer

 

In conclusion, be strong in the Lord (draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him) and in the power of His (boundless) might. Eph. 6:10 (AMP)

 

Verses 11-18 describe in detail the pieces of “clothing” that make up the full armor of God: all needed in order to take our stand (and succeed) against the devil’s schemes.

 

Jesus death and resurrection made it possible for us to be victorious, no matter what comes our way.

 

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit, in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and how high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love which surpasses knowledge- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Eph. 3:16-19 (NIV)

 

And, in Ephesians 1 we are told that the incomparable great power of God that raised Jesus from the dead is available to us who believe.

 

In Him, you are Strong!

 

 

Wednesday, April 3rd

John Chapter 8

By Bob Elliott

 

Today I would like for us to look at John Chapter 8. I think it is good to look at the context that is taking place around these topics.

 

Jesus is locked into conflict with the Pharisees concerning matters of grace versus the keeping of the law. They are looking for anything that they may be able to trap him in his words so as to arrest him and place him on trial.

 

In verses 1-11 we see the story of the woman caught in adultery. Jesus declares that whoever is without sin can start to throw rocks at her (stoning was the penalty for this crime that she had committed.) One by one they all walk away and Jesus full of grace and mercy says, neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more. How beautiful a picture of redemption is on display for the Pharisees to see, but they just don’t get it.

 

Verses 12-20 display Jesus as the light of the world. Again, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Again, the Pharisees don’t want to listen to his wisdom, rather they attempt to invalidate his testimony.

 

In verses 21-30 Jesus tells them that they are going to die in their sins for their unbelief in him. In verse 23 we read; He said to them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Here he is emphasizing the vast difference between himself and these so-called religious leaders.

 

In verses 31-38 we see the famous passage about how the truth will set you free. So, Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Notice how he is speaking to the Jews that believe in him. He is not speaking to the Pharisee leaders in this context. Again, the emphasis in not on the law, rather that belief in Jesus is paramount. I love verse 36 where he says So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. We have been set free from the slavery of sin. Give glory to God.

 

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Alive Both Now and Forever

by Lynn Koehn

 

1 Corinthians 15:12-19

¹² Now if Christ is preached, that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? ¹³ But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; ¹⁴ and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. ¹⁵ Moreover we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we testified against God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised. ¹⁶ For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been  raised; ¹⁷ and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. ¹⁸ Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. ¹⁹ If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.

 

God, our Heavenly Father, raising our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ from the dead was a victory over sin and death for you and me. Jesus came out of the grave victorious over death, and He promises us that one day, if we believe in Him, we too, shall be raised out of the grave!

 

After a little while, the world no longer is going to see Me, but you are going to see Me; because I live, you also will live. John 14:19 [NASB]

 

"I am the Resurrection and the Life," said Jesus; "he who believes in me, even if he has died, he shall live; and every one who is living and is a believer in me shall never, never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26 [WNT]

 

The Resurrection is about the fact that we have a living Savior who invites us into a relationship with Him that will not only change our life in the here and now but will also change us for all eternity.

 

Monday, April 1st

A pleasant reminder

By Jonah Lang

 

Hebrews 12:1-3 (niv)

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

 

So, being the day after Easter, I wondered around with my thoughts and God reminded me of how I felt after realizing that my soul was safe. I was excited to live life and to share with others the new life I had and was living. These verses can be read years apart and each one can be an encouragement to us as we navigate different cases of life.

 

The first phase of living as a new Christian could look like this: angels are surrounding us cheering for us, in fact all of heaven cheers for every soul saved. And were so excited to live a new life. Then after a while we are reminded of how tricky and sticky sin can be, and we are instructed to separate ourselves from everything including sin that hinders our new life, so that we can run for the whole race.

 

Then later, it reminds us to keep our eyes on Jesus, because he is perfect and we are to be like him. Years later, we are reminded that going to the cross actually brought Jesus joy because he knew this was the only way to bring us back to Him. And then sometime later, we are to consider Him and what he endured from sinners and that our sin…My sin… put him on the cross; I need to remember that, so that I don’t tire and loose heart.

 

 

Friday, March 29^th

It’s Empty, the Tomb is Empty

By Gary Bittner

 

Hi River Center Family,

I found this story a few years ago, and I love it. As we enter into Easter weekend, let us be like Philip. God bless.

 

“It's empty, the tomb is empty!"

 

Little Philip, born with Down's syndrome, attended a third-grade Sunday School class with several eight-year-old boys and girls. Typical of that age, the children did not readily accept Philip with his differences, according to an article in Leadership magazine. But because of a creative teacher, they began to care about Philip and accept him as part of the group, though not fully.

 

The Sunday after Easter the teacher brought Leggs pantyhose containers, the kind that look like large eggs. Each receiving one, the children were told to go outside on that lovely spring day, find some symbol for new life, and put it in the egg-like container. Back in the classroom, they would share their new-life symbols, opening the containers one by one in surprise fashion.

 

After running about the church property in wild confusion, the students returned to the classroom and placed the containers on the table. Surrounded by the children, the teacher began to open them one by one. After each one, whether flower, butterfly, or leaf, the class would ooh and ahh.

 

Then one was opened, revealing nothing inside. The children exclaimed, "That's stupid. That's not fair. Somebody didn't do their assignment." Philip spoke up, "That's mine." "Philip, you don't ever do things right!" the student retorted. "There's nothing there!" “I did so do it," Philip insisted. "I did do it. It's empty, the tomb is empty!" Silence followed. From then on Philip became a full member of the class.

 

Philip died not long afterward from an infection most normal children would have shrugged off. At the funeral this class of eight-year-olds marched up to the altar not with flowers, but with their Sunday school teacher, each to lay on it an empty pantyhose egg.

 

God bless,

Gary B.

 

Thursday, March 28

Behold the Lamb

By Galen Troyer

 

Easter. It’s the story of God’s great love for all mankind!

 

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 (ESV)

 

This declaration by John the Baptist ushered in God’s new plan for the salvation of all who would believe.

 

When the Lamb of God went to the cross, it would be the last time a blood sacrifice was necessary.

 

Jesus gave his life-shed his blood-to take away the sins of the world for all who would repent and believe in him. His blood, is enough for as long as the world stands.

 

The Apostle Paul describes well what happens when anyone comes to Jesus:

 

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (ESV)

 

Dying to myself is required in order for Jesus to live - and be seen- in me.

Living for Jesus is worth whatever the cost. I won’t ever go back to living my own way.

 

Someday we will see him face to face. What a day that will be!

 

 

Wednesday, March 27th

A Healthy Cycle

By Bob Elliott

 

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. ² Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. ³ Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, ⁴ and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, ⁵ and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Rom. 5:1-5 esv

 

This is such an encouraging piece of scripture for us to look at today. Our justification is not found in works of any kind, it is by faith alone. It’s a peace that is found not what we do, its what we believe. This is the cornerstone of our faith. All acts of obedience to God must be birthed within the context of respect, thanksgiving and trust in God alone.

 

We have received such unmerited favor through Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith. Notice how faith is independent from emotion. Our feelings can actually be of a hindrance when they are in opposition to faith.

 

There is a healthy cycle of embracing the difficulties in life with the perspective that God is in the business of building character within us. This process includes: suffering, endurance, built character and hope.  These may not be the most fun at the time, but by faith we can rise up to believe that God has good things in store for us. Have a great day in Christ today.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Wait upon the Lord

by Lynn Koehn

 

Isaiah 40:31 [NKJV]

But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

 

In the Hebrew, the word ‘wait’ carries with it a sense of confident anticipation and/or hopeful expectation.

 

“It is always acceptable to “wait upon the Lord” for direction and refreshment. Our timing needs to conform to God’s timing in all things.” –David Jeremiah

 

Father, I willfully choose to wait upon you with confidence and hope. Thank you Father, for renewing my strength, enabling me to soar like an eagle, to run with endurance and not grow weary or faint.

 

Philippians 1:6 [CEV], God is the one who began this good work in you, and I am certain that he won't stop before it is complete on the day that Christ Jesus returns.

 

Mushrooms sprout and grow overnight; oak trees take a few years. It is well worth the wait….if you want to be strong like a mighty oak!

 

Monday March 26th

Death is not Death

By Jonah Lang

 It does not mean the end, but you have to die (to yourself) if you want to live.

 

Paul tells us that we are as good as dead in our transgressions and that there is no way we are not gonna die… Basically we are hopeless...Stay with me here.

 

The good news here is that we have the opportunity to die…(to ourself) in order that we can have eternal life in Christ. It goes like this… I sin and deserve death...

 

But then GOD (three of my favorite words) puts into motion the plan he had all along. Covering my sin and bringing me back into relationship with Him.

 

Romans 6:23 NIV

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

 

Friday, March 22nd

Peace During the Storm

By Gary Bittner

 

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

 

During life's storms, finding peace can feel like an insurmountable challenge. However, it is during these very moments that we are reminded of the power and presence of God in our lives. In times of trouble, He offers us a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Just as a ship finds refuge in the harbor during a storm, we can find solace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. His love and grace are a shelter from the tumultuous winds and crashing waves. It is in His embrace that we can find true peace, even during the most challenging circumstances.

When the storms of life threaten to overwhelm us, it is essential to remember that God is with us every step of the way. He is our anchor, our rock, and our refuge. He calms the raging seas and speaks peace into the chaos of our lives. Amid the storm, He whispers words of comfort and assurance, reminding us that we are not alone.

As we face the storms of life, it is crucial to anchor our faith in God's promises. He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. He has promised to provide for our needs and to guide us through every trial. During the storm, we can cling to these promises, knowing that God is faithful and true.

Finding peace in the storm requires surrendering our fears, worries, and anxieties to God. It means trusting Him with our present circumstances and the outcome of our lives. It means acknowledging that He is in control, even when everything seems to be falling apart. It is in this surrender that we find the peace that can only come from Him.

In the storm, let us turn our eyes to Jesus, the Prince of Peace. He walked on the water and commanded the winds and waves to be still. He is the One who calms the storms of our lives and brings tranquility to our souls. In His presence, our fears are silenced, and our hearts are filled with peace.

So, let us hold on to hope and trust in the goodness of God, even in the midst of life's storms. Let us seek His peace that surpasses all understanding, knowing that He is with us and that His love will carry us through. In the storm, may we find solace in His presence and strength in His peace.

 

Thursday, March 21st

Your Will be Done

By Galen Troyer

 

During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Heb. 5:7 (NIV)

 

He was heard because of his reverent submission.

He was sent to earth to do the will of his father and was committed to completing that work.

 

He taught his disciples to pray like this:

“Our Father in heaven,

Hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come.

Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” Mt. 6:9-10 (NKJV)

 

Before he went to the cross, Jesus prayed:

“O my Father, if it is possible let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Mt. 26:39 (NKJV)

 

God hears our prayers and He listens when we are submitted to Jesus and to his will for our lives. He loves us.

May our prayer for ourselves always be the same as Jesus prayed: “Your Will be Done.”

 

Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he has done for my soul.

I cried to him with my mouth, and high praise was on my tongue.

If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.

But truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer.

Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his stedfast love from me! Ps. 66:16-20 (ESV)

 

 

 

^{Wednesday, March 20th}

^{The Power of the Resurrection}

^{By Bob Elliott} 

Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” ¹⁴ And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” ¹⁵ He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” ¹⁶ Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” ¹⁷ And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. ¹⁸ And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell^[c] shall not prevail against it. ¹⁹ I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matt. 16:13-19

 

The question of the ages is this: Who is Jesus? What does the culture around us think about who he is? This question was common among the Jewish people that encountered Jesus. They were looking at options based on their own personal opinion on the matter. Like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Some people may say that Jesus was a great moral teacher or a mystic sage, but not the son of God.

 

Simon Peter gets it right, he says that Jesus is the Christ, the son of the living God. This is the only answer that truly makes sense. As Christians, we believe that Jesus was resurrected from the dead. This is the lynchpin doctrine of the Christian faith. The scriptures say that if Christ is not resurrected, our faith is in vain. For me, the only way that Jesus could have possibly done this is that He is the real deal. Only the true son of God could have this miracle beyond human explanation happen. Jesus predicted many times that this was to be his destiny, and then it actually happened. The power of God that raised Jesus from the dead, leaving behind an empty tomb is historically documented in the Gospels.

 

This is our hope that because of the resurrection, we also when we die, will be raised to eternal life with Jesus. The sting of death is overcome. We are redeemed by the blood of the lamb.

 

 

 

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Prayer Changes Things

by Lynn Koehn

 

1 Kings 17:17-24

¹⁷ After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill. And his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. ¹⁸ And she said to Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance and to cause the death of my son!” ¹⁹ And he said to her, “Give me your son.” And he took him from her arms and carried him up into the upper chamber where he lodged, and laid him on his own bed. ²⁰ And he cried to the Lord, “O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by killing her son?” ²¹ Then he stretched himself upon the child three times and cried to the Lord, “O Lord my God, let this child's life come into him again.” ²² And the Lord listened to the voice of Elijah. And the life of the child came into him again, and he revived. ²³ And Elijah took the child and brought him down from the upper chamber into the house and delivered him to his mother. And Elijah said, “See, your son lives.” ²⁴ And the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”

 

Great prayer warriors are people who don’t accept the status quo, the present circumstances. They want things to change. Prayer changes things. Prayer changes circumstances. Prayer changes people. And prayer touches the heart of God.

 

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16b

 

A child of God ought to expect answers to prayer. God means every prayer to have an answer; and not a single real prayer can fail of its effect in Heaven.   -Unknown

Monday March 18th

He refreshes my soul

By Jonah Lang

 

Psalm 23:1-3 niv A psalm of David.

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

 

Sometimes we let ourselves get way too busy. How much too busy is way too busy??? Well, we are “way too busy" anytime we allow ourselves to say I’m too busy to pray…

 

In Him there is everything we need, and if we struggle to recognize that and allow ourselves to become too busy, (see above for metric used to qualify “too busy”) He will make us to lie down… He puts us in a place where we rest and he refreshes our soul.

 

What an amazing God we serve and all this for His name sake.

 

 

Friday, March 15, 2024

Joy That Sustains

Gary Bittner

 

Joy is powerful, it can bring light and happiness into our lives. Joy is a gift from God that should be cherished and celebrated every day. As Christians, we know that true joy comes from our relationship with Jesus Christ and the hope we have in Him. In this devotional, we will look at joy and how we can experience it even in difficult circumstances.

 

Scripture References:

• Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice! - Philippians 4:4
• May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. - Romans 15:13
• These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. - John 15:11
• Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. - James 1:2-3

 

Joy is not dependent on our circumstances. Biblical joy is a state of being that comes from within, as a result of our relationship with Jesus; It is a fruit if the Holy Spirit. When we're filled with the Holy Spirit, the fruit of joy will supernaturally come forth, for in Him we have an abundant source of joy that sustains us even through the toughest trials, circumstance and situations.

 

The Bible tells us to rejoice always, even in difficult circumstances. This doesn't mean that we should be happy about everything that happens to us, but rather that we can find joy in the midst of trials because we know that God is with us and working for our good.

 

In fact, the testing of our faith produces steadfastness, which in turn produces more joy. So, when we face trials, we can count it all joy, knowing that God is using the situation to strengthen us and grow our faith.

As we continue to walk with Jesus and grow in our relationship with Him, we'll experience more and more of His joy. It's a gift that keeps on giving and one that we can share with others.

 

Let's choose joy today, and every day, as we trust in the Lord as we find our hope in Him.

 

God bless,

Gary B.

 

 

Thursday, March 14th

Joy in Trials

By Galen Troyer

 

Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith (through experience) produces patience (leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace). And let endurance have its perfect result, and do its thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed (in your faith), lacking nothing. James 1: 3-4 (AMP)

 

Does that first sentence make any sense at all? Probably not if we stop there. But when the verses are read in context; and we look back on difficult things we’ve gone through, it’s understandable why the author (James) states it like he did.

 

At the River Center last Sunday, Pastor Warren invited anyone who desired prayer for any need (trial) to come forward. Many responded and were prayed for. There is a release experienced when we give anything that we are carrying to the Lord. He always hears us and we can depend on him to act on our behalf. I’m sure there will be some testimonies of prayers that were answered from persons who responded to the invitation. I can’t wait to hear them!

 

Sometimes prayers are answered quickly; other times patience, while we wait, is required. The result is spiritual growth and inner peace.

 

I read this recently:

PEACE: It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things, and still be calm in your heart.

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, March 13^th

Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest

By Bob Elliott

At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; ²⁶ yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.^[g] 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. ²⁸ Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matt. 11:25-30

 

When you feel really tired, you can lose a sense of direction, or feel the weight of life extra heavy upon you.

I love how the scripture says that taking on the yoke of Jesus is light.  The reason for this is that he has taken on himself the burden of our sins. How amazing is this grace of Jesus! It is so incredible that it is described as being scandalous.

The next time that you feel physically exhausted, think about how much Jesus loves you and has set you free from sin and death. This brings rest to your soul and provides a boost of endurance to help you get through the challenges at hand.

Let’s find rest for our souls by drinking deeply into the grace and mercy of Jesus.

 

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Victorious Overcomers

by Lynn Koehn

 

Romans 8:

¹ So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. ² And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.

 

⁹ But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you.

 

¹² Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do.

 

Paul is making it clear that in this life we may (will) experience temptations and misfortunes, but that in Christ we are “more than conquerors!”

 

³⁷ Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors and gain an overwhelming victory through Him who loved us [so much that He died for us].

 

God can use (if we cooperate) what we experience—even our adversities—to conform us to the image of Christ.

 

²⁸ And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.

 

 

Monday March 11th

Planning to Reap

By Jonah Lang

 

Galatians 6:7-9 NIV 7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

 

The wisdom within the idea of reaping what is sown is such a wonderful warning, but it also tells us of a blessing. Why do I so often only remember the first part of a scripture and forget the second part? The warning is a good thing, but the blessing is too and I need them both.

 

I remember My Dad telling me "you reap what you sow" right after I did something dumb or got into trouble. He was a very good dad, he wasn’t the type of dad to rub my face in my misery, but he would let me know that he "could see it coming."

 

 I need to hear the warning, but I want to focus on the second part of verse 8, I want to sow to please the spirit. I want a deeper spiritual walk with Jesus.

 

 

Friday, March 8, 2024

God’s Goodness

By Gary Bittner

 

God's goodness knows no bounds,
His love for us forever abounds,
In every moment of our lives,
He's there to guide us with His light.

Through trials and tribulations,
He guides us to His planned for us destinations,
His mercy and grace are always near,
To strengthen and wipe away our every tear.

In times of joy and trials as well,
Of His goodness I will not cease to tell,
His blessings continually pour down from above,
As He showers us with His endless love.

So, church let us praise Him every day,
For all the blessings and gifts He sends our way,
And may we let His goodness shine through us bright,
His goodness always fueling our light.

 

God bless,

Gary B.

 

Thursday, March 7th

What is Truth?

By Galen Troyer

 

Truth is important. Life would be chaos without it.

 

Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.” “You are a king, then” said Pilot.

Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” “What is truth?” Pilate asked. With this he went out again to the Jews and said, “I find no basis for a charge against him…” John 19: 36-38 (NIV)

 

I think Pilate could have benefitted by waiting for Jesus to reply, but he obviously had other things on his mind that day.

 

To the Jews who had believed in him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32

 

For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God, and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known. John 1:17-18

 

Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:34-36

 

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me. John 14:6

 

Jesus, speaking to his disciples:

“But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you, but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin because people do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer, and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned. I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of Truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me, because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”John 16:7-15 (NIV)

 

He has given us His Spirit and His Word.

Am I listening to him?

 

 

 

^{Wednesday March 6th}

^{John the Baptist and the Lamb of God}

^{By Bob Elliott}

The next day he (John) saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!  This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’  I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him.  I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’  And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” John 1:29-34 (esv)

We may be familiar with the phrase “behold the lamb of God” quoted by John the Baptist. We understand that the ramifications of Jesus sacrifice on the cross will be the fulfillment of the Baptist’s statement. Nevertheless, what if we look at this scripture in real time, as it is unfolding, before the passion of Christ?

How awesome the setting must have been. John said that he did not know him, meaning that he was not aware that Jesus (probably his cousin) was to be the messiah until this very moment. John now knew, him as the redeemer of humanity as he saw the Holy Spirit descend and stay upon Jesus. John now realizes how epic this moment in time truly is. His whole purpose of baptizing people is to prepare Israel for this revelation, to reveal the purposes of God.

John’s response is so beautiful.  He humbly declares that he must become less, because Jesus is more. Here is where we should find ourselves as well. It is not about how big we may become, it is about our walking in humility, and making the name of Jesus great. The scripture declares that God opposes the proud, but gives grace to those who walk in humility (James 4:6).

This message is truly foreign to our culture at large, and gives us the opportunity to be different.  This is how we can be salt and light to others around us.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you 1^st Peter 5:6

 

 

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Sacrifice of Praise - Psalm 34:1-3

by Lynn Koehn

 ¹ I will bless the Lord at all times;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
² My soul shall make its boast in the Lord;
The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
³ Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
And let us exalt His name together.

 

Intentionally choosing to praise God “sacrificially” means to trust His plans and provision and protection at all times—continually. “Sacrifice of praise” means giving up fear, resentment, anger and self-centeredness. In times of trouble, deliberately choosing to praise God “sacrificially,” is the pathway to triumphant victory!

 

Through Him, therefore, let us at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. -Hebrews 13:15 [AMP]

 

 

 

Monday March 4th

Stand Firm

By Jonah Lang

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

The Armor of God

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

 

This verse speaks of being ready for what the future holds. We have read about the future and have an idea of what to expect. It is actually quite encouraging to know that with the whole armor of God we can withstand anything the enemy throws at us. We can stand firm! 

 

 

Friday, March 1st

Entering God's Rest

By Gary Bittner

Hi River Center,

Have you ever felt just plain worn out, exhausted and empty as a result of ‘life?’. Me too. Here is this weekend’s devotional, let’s rest in Him and His promises.

 

Scripture: Hebrews 4:1 (NIV) - "Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it."

 

In Hebrews 4:1, the author reminds us of the promise of entering God's rest and reminds us to be a diligent people of faith so that none of us fall short of His incredible promise of rest.

 

The topic of God's rest is deeply rooted in Scripture. In the beginning, after God created the heavens and the earth, on the seventh day, He rested from all His work. This rest was not a result of exhaustion or weariness, but rather a manifestation of His satisfaction and delight in His creation. ‘It is good.’

 

Similarly, the promise of entering God's rest in Hebrews is not primarily about physical rest or ceasing from labor. It is an invitation to experience the fullness of God's peace, joy, and provision in our lives. It is an invitation to find rest for our souls amidst the chaos and challenges of this life.

 

Why or how would anyone fall short of God's rest? It is because of unbelief and disobedience. Throughout the book of Hebrews, the author addresses a group of Jewish Christians who were tempted to turn away from their faith and return to their old religious practices. They were in danger of missing out on the rest that God had promised them because of their wavering faith.

 

Today, we too can easily fall into the trap of unbelief and disobedience. We may allow our circumstances, doubts, or the pressures of the world to overshadow our trust in God's promises. We may become complacent in our spiritual journey, neglecting to diligently seek after God and His rest. We may seek satisfaction and fulfillment in the things of this world, rather than finding our ultimate rest in God alone.

 

But let us be encouraged by the fact that the promise of entering God's rest still stands. Let us be intentional in pursuing a deep and intimate relationship with God, allowing His peace to fill our hearts and minds.

 

As we navigate through the ups and downs of this life, let’s remember that true rest is found in Christ. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-29 (Message version), "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly."

 

So, let us hold fast to our faith, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of our faith. Let us rest in Him as we trust in His promises. And as we enter into His rest, may we experience the abundant life He has prepared for us.

 

God bless,

Gary B.

 

Thursday, February 29

It’s Your Right

By Galen Troyer

 

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God-children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. John 1: 9-13 (NIV)

 

It is important to understand, and believe this; that it’s your God declared Right to be called his child when you receive (accept) Jesus and believe in his name. Why? Because that’s what he calls you! There has never been, nor will there ever be any Right more valuable than this; this one is eternal.

 

Pastor Warren explained so well last Sunday what this looks like. For all who have received and believe in Jesus, their lives, including their bodies belong to God. And they live to please him; doing what he wants, rather than what their flesh wants.

 

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. Romans 8:14 (NIV)

 

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Rom. 8:5-6

 

Thank you, Father, for your goodness and favor. You have made us righteous through Jesus and we are yours. We are your children, and we celebrate that right.

 

 

^{Wednesday, Feb 28th}

^{The Kingdom of God}

^{By Bob Elliott}

 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. Eph. 1:3-10

This piece of scripture is a good example of what the Kingdom of God actually means. The terms kingdom of God and kingdom of heaven are used interchangeably in the New Testament. However, it can be confusing or even elusive to understand what kingdom business is. Is this kingdom something in the future?  Is it about us being with God in heaven when we die? Alternatively, is there something more to the equation?

Often times when we think about the kingdom of God, we tend to settle into one of three possible positions. N. T Wright in the book titled The challenge of Jesus describes it like this. Option one, a quietist that separates from the wicked world. The kingdom is found in a hidden conclave away from what is going on in culture and the world. We wait for God to do whatever God is going to do. Option two, be engaged with the culture, particularly in politics of power, doing the best that you can and hope that God will somehow validate what you are doing. Option 3 is a zealots approach to the world. We should fight against all forms of evil wherever we see it. Say your prayers, sharpen your sword. Good must triumph over evil, so by any means necessary overcome evil.

Most of us could probably relate in some fashion to any one of these positions, or maybe some combination of them. I am not saying that all of these positions are bad, they each have some inherent value. However, they are not particularly good in trying to define what the kingdom of God is about.

Ultimately, the kingdom of God is found in our redemption in Christ. The kingdom is a person, the person is Jesus. Jesus said to his disciples that the kingdom is at hand.  Wright describes the following  “God was now unveiling his age-old plan, bringing His sovereignty to bear on Israel and the whole world as he had always intended, bringing justice and mercy to us all. And He was doing so, apparently through Jesus.” It is in him that we have redemption through his blood.

Therefore, at the end of the day, the kingdom of God is inextricably linked to the good news of the Gospel. We are forgiven from sin by the lavish grace of redemption. When we talk about extending the kingdom, we are talking about being salt and light to the world with the intention of sharing this marvelous hope for a future that extends beyond the grave. The kingdom is both now and yet to come. Redemption begins when we are saved, it is fulfilled in heaven.

 

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Greatness of His Power

by Lynn Koehn

 True power resides with God, not men. As Daniel expressed in Babylon when God revealed to him the meaning of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream.

 ¹⁹ Then the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision of the night, and Daniel blessed the God of heaven.²⁰ Daniel answered, “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever,For wisdom and power belong to Him.”²¹ “It is He who changes the times and the seasons;He removes kings and establishes kings.He gives wisdom to the wise
And [greater] knowledge to those who have understanding!” ²² “It is He who reveals the profound and hidden things; He knows what is in the darkness,And the light dwells with Him.”-Daniel 2:19-22

 Join me in praying Paul’s prayer for ourselves, so we may live in God’s all-sufficient power at all times. ¹⁹ and how very great is his power at work in us who believe. This power working in us is the same as the mighty strength ²⁰ which he used when he raised Christ from death and seated him at his right side in the heavenly world. Ephesians 1:19-20 [GNT],

“Christianity is the power of God in the soul of man.” –Robert B. Munger

 

Monday February 26th

Grace

 By Jonah Lang

 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV

The other day God reminded me of a quote.

“Run, John, run, the law commands, but gives us neither feet nor hands. Far better news the gospel brings: It bids us fly and gives us wings.” John Bunyan

Thank You Jesus for the new covenant, thank you that you came to fulfill the law and gave us grace and an example to live by.

 

 

 

Friday, February 23^rd

Oregon Springtime

By Gary Bittner

 

Hi River Center, here is your weekend devotional.

 

I shared this poem I wrote end of winter last year, and given the beautiful weather yesterday and today I wanted to share it again. I know we still have some ‘winter weather’ to come, but rather than complain let’s look forward. Yes? Of course yes! God bless, Gary B.

 

Oregon Springtime: In Oregon it is often long awaited as the rain continues sunny Spring days are long abated. But we can have hope and in our future invest.

 

For indeed, Spring is coming, and an Oregon Spring is the best. Oregon Springtime awakens Winter’s slumber As new life bursts forth from the soggy under The drying earth, once muddy and still Will bloom with bright colors, vibrance and thrill The rain-cleansed air carries the scent of rebirth.

 

As the world awakens from its rainy wet dearth. Buds unfurl into green leaves and pretty flowers And with the warming days come longer sunny hours Late in the evening birds sing melodies into the night. As they take to the skies in joyful evening flight Their wings beating with a newfound lightness and grace As they explore their world with a fresh and expectant face.

 

The world seems to be coming alive with a new energy As Spring brings forth a renewed synergy. It is a time of growth, a time of new colors all around, as new life springs out from the trees and up from the ground. So, let’s worship Him as He brings this new season of life So let’s honor Him as we show forth His beauty and light. And let us always be mindful, as faith does not grow without some pain Yes, Oregon is so green and beautiful, all because of the rain.

 

Thursday, Feb. 22

Anxious, Worried, Stressed?

By Galen Troyer

 

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. I Peter 5:7 (NIV)

 

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22

 

No one likes the burden that comes with being anxious, stressed or worried. Yet, it would be difficult, if not impossible to find someone who could honestly say they’ve never had any of those feelings.

 

The good news is that when difficult times come, no matter how often, we have one who wants to carry our burdens. Throwing them off on him, laying them down at the foot of the cross, frees us to be the person we were created to be. It doesn’t mean we forget them, but we no longer carry them. We give them to the Lord and that frees us to give ourselves to doing the things he has for us to do.

 

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

 

That’s how important you are to God. He laid out a great plan for your life before you were born. It includes casting all your cares on him in order for you to fulfill his purposes in your life. And, you can be assured that he is at work on your behalf now, just like he was before you were born. That’s pretty amazing!

 

He cares for you and he loves you.

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Christ is Enough

by Lynn Koehn

 

 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, ⁵ even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), ⁶ and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ⁷ that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-10 (NKJV)

 

Notice the contrast. We were dead—God gave us life. We were separated from God—Jesus brought us back into relationship with our Heavenly Father. We were poor and wretched—God gives us riches and honor.

 

We were helpless and could do nothing about it. BUT GOD…because of mercy and love, rescued you and me! The death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (nothing else) did it all. He IS ENOUGH.

 

⁸ For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. ¹⁰ For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

 

 

Friday, Feb 16^th

My Feet Won’t Slip

By Gary Bittner

 Hi River Center,

Several weeks ago, a prophetic word came during our Sunday AM service that urged us to be confident as we ‘push off’ into new things, for God will make our feet secure. Here are some scriptures along that line for your meditation.

 God bless,

Gary B. 

You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great. You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way.

Psalms 18:35-36 NIV

 

 My feet stand on level ground; in the great congregation I will praise the Lord.

Psalms 26:12 NIV

 

You have not given me into the hands of the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious and secure place.

Psalms 31:8 NIV

 

The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.

Psalms 37:30-31 NIV 

I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.

Psalms 40:1-3 NIV

 

Thursday, Feb. 15th

Embrace the Wait (Part III)

By Galen Troyer

 

Then he said to Moses, “Come up to the Lord, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, you and seventy of the elders of Israel. You are to worship at a distance, but Moses alone is to approach the Lord; the others must not come near. And the people may not come up with him.”

When Moses went and told the people all the Lord’s words and laws, they responded with one voice, “Everything the Lord has said we will do.” Moses then wrote down everything the Lord had said.

He got up early the next morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain and set up twelve stone pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Then he sent young Israelite men, and they offered burnt offerings and sacrificed young bulls as fellowship offerings to the Lord. Moses took half of the blood and put it in bowls, and the other half he sprinkled on the altar. Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it to the people. They responded, “We will do everything the Lord has said; we will obey.” Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.” Exodus 24: 1-8 (NIV)

 

The children of Israel had seen so many miraculous things that God did in getting them out of Egypt and providing food for them in the desert. This was a great time as Moses spoke to them and they were committed to honoring God and obeying him.

 

Then Moses set out with Joshua his aide, and Moses went up on the mountain of God. He said to the elders, “Wait here for us until we come back to you, Aaron and Hur are with you, and anyone involved in a dispute can go to them.”

When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud settled in Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from within the cloud. To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a consuming fire on top of the mountain. And he stayed on the mountain forty days and forty nights. Exodus 24: 13-18

 

What the children of Israel saw on the mountain was further evidence of God’s power and faithfulness. Surely, now they would be waiting for Moses to return. Wouldn’t they?

 

When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.” Eph. 32: 1

 

They quickly got tired of waiting, forgot the promises they had made and brought disaster upon themselves. How different it could have been if they had only waited. If would have not been long.

 

And Aaron, why did he go along with their request? He of all people knew God had a plan for his people. Why didn’t he seek the Lord before giving in to their request? Instead, he asked for the jewelry that their wives, sons and daughters were wearing, then melted it all down and created an idol in the form of a golden calf.

 

Disaster struck as a result. Many died within a few days. So much pain and suffering could have been averted if they had only waited for Moses to return.

 

In our day, we all have times of waiting. Our best decisions are made as we wait on the Lord, seek his counsel and open ourselves to our brothers and sisters.

 

Help us Lord to wait for answers from you.

 

Wednesday, Feb. 14th

Born Again to a Living Hope

By Bob Elliott

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, ⁵ who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ⁶ In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, ⁷ so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. ⁸ Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, ⁹ obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1^st Peter 1:3-9 esv

The evidence of promise in this text for us as believers in Christ is breathtaking. Our future in the Kingdom of God is awe-inspiring because of the living hope in the power of Jesus resurrection from the dead.

The description of a “living hope” is provocative. Hope is alive and vibrant, full of expectancy and yearning. It is also durable, in that there is a security that this hope cannot be nullified or extinguished in any way.

The word “hope” is often used in the Old Testament as an equivalence to the word “inheritance.” The promised land was meant to be an inheritance for the Jewish people. The emphasis of the real estate of Israel in connection with the belief of the God of Abraham and Issac and Jacob was deeply woven into that culture.

 Likewise, this hope that we have is full of the promise of inheritance.  Inheritance by definition becomes active when a person dies, not beforehand. When Jesus died, he left us the legacy of mercy and grace fully shared in salvation.

 It is as if we had a very rich uncle who we loved dearly. When he died, he left us everything, a massive inheritance that has completely changed our financial position in life for the better. Only the reality is that the real inheritance that we have is far greater than the rich uncle scenario. Our faith is founded on the rock-solid truth of the gospel.

Watch: Living Hope by Cross Point Music

 

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Encouraging One Another

by Lynn Koehn

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

 

I had the most encouraging Zoom call with our dear friend and River Center family member Danae Fouts this morning. Danae is doing an intense one-year Bible training in the European nation of Georgia. Encouragement is something that truly gives the same amount of joy to those who give it as it does to those who receive it. A positive, affirming and uplifting word at the right moment can keep us motivated, loved, and feeling confident in what God is doing in and through us.

 

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

 

 

Monday, February 12th

About Jesus...

By Jonah Lang

 

Hebrews is a cut a dry explanation of who Jesus is, we see Jesus has within himself all the authority and the Majesty of God. God uses this in a challenge for us to stay faithful to God though we may face persecution.

God explains to us who Jesus is. God’s Final Word: His Son.

 

Hebrews 1 NIV

1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. 4 So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.

The Son Superior to Angels

5 For to which of the angels did God ever say,

“You are my Son;
    today I have become your Father”?

Or again,

“I will be his Father,
    and he will be my Son”?

6 And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says,

“Let all God’s angels worship him.”

7 In speaking of the angels he says,

“He makes his angels spirits,
    and his servants flames of fire.”

8 But about the Son he says,

“Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever;
    a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.
9 You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness;
    therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions
    by anointing you with the oil of joy.”

10 He also says,

“In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth,
    and the heavens are the work of your hands.
11 They will perish, but you remain;
    they will all wear out like a garment.
12 You will roll them up like a robe;
    like a garment they will be changed.
But you remain the same,
    and your years will never end.”

13 To which of the angels did God ever say,

“Sit at my right hand
    until I make your enemies
    a footstool for your feet”?

14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. 

 

 Friday, Feb. 9th

Turn it Up

By Gary Bittner

 

Hi River Center,

This weekend’s devotional is a simple reminder...Our God is Good.

 

I encourage you to meditate on the scripture below, then listen to/watch the video after, on repeat, really really loud.

 

Turn it Up!!!!!!

 

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.“ Psalms 34:8

 

Listen here:

 

God bless,

Gary B.

 

 

Thursday, Feb. 8

Embrace the Wait-Part II

By Galen Troyer

 

Last week we looked at Joseph, who was one that waited for the Lord to rescue him. The Lord honored him with favor and blessing in everything he did, even while he was in prison. He not only forgave his brothers, but showed them favor. There is no record in the Bible of any wrong that Joseph did against God or man.

 

Today, let’s look at Abraham who was called Abram at birth.

 

The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.

I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

So Abram left as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Haran. He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, and all the possessions they had accumulated in Haran, and they set out for the land of Canaan and they arrived there.

 

The Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So, Abram built an altar there to the Lord. Gen. 12: 1-5 & 7 (NIV)

 

No doubt Abram’s heart was to obey God in everything, he accomplished amazing things and God blessed him over and over. I doubt that he ever planned to take matters into his own hands.

 

Ten years is a long time, at least in our eyes and it must have been for Sarai and Abram too. They waited ten years for a child, but then took matters into their own hands-maybe even thinking they were helping God out.

 

They were getting old! So, Sarai told Abram to sleep with her maidservant, Hagar thinking she could build a family through her, and Abram agreed with her. Why didn’t he ask God what he thought of it, first?

 

After Hagar conceived, Sarai despised her and it became a source of conflict between Abram and Sara also.

 

“Your servant is in your hands, Abram said. Do with her whatever you think best.” Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so, she fled from her. Gen. 16:6

 

(To Hagar) The angel of the Lord added, “I will also increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count. You are now with child and you will have a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the Lord has heard your misery. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand will be against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers “ Gen. 16: 10-12

 

How different things would have been for Abram and Sarai if they had “Embraced the Wait” and watched the perfect plan that God intended for them.

 

How different things might be in the world today.

 

About thirteen years later Sarai gave birth to Isaac, the son the Lord had promised. Isaac’s life and the children of Israel then and now are affected by the choice Abram made thousands of years ago. Moving ahead of God’s plan always has consequences, maybe none as long lasting as this one. Even though Abraham failed in this instance, God didn’t disqualify him. He was a great man of faith. Like us, he was human.

 

We could probably all give examples from our own lives of times we became impatient, rather than waiting for God’s best, and as a result, the pain we caused ourselves and others.

 

Well, my idea of sharing this was to be encouraging. I hope it was; and you and I are more inspired to consider consequences of our actions and motives in things we do and don’t do.

 

Embrace the Wait:)

 

Wednesday, Feb7th

Stir up One Another

By Bob Elliott

 

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, ²⁰ by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, ²¹ and since we have a great priest over the house of God, ²² let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. ²³ Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. ²⁴ And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, ²⁵ not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Heb. 10:19-25

 

I love this passage of scripture. It so full of promises from God. Reading this should send our confidence in Jesus through the roof. We have the full assurance of faith in Christ. The text encourages us to hold fast with out wavering. I don’t know about you, but with all of the misinformation and corruption flowing through our society, it’s almost as if the enemy of our souls is trying to discourage us and derail us from our appointed destiny.

 

However, God is faithful to fulfill his great promises to us. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. He is mighty to save.

 

Let’s be about the business of encouraging and building each other up with the goodness of God. Let’s stir up the pot.

 

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

 At peace…Even in the Storm

 by Lynn Koehn

 

Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [peace that reassures the heart] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]. Philippians 4:6-7 [AMP]

 

When we are asked, “how are you doing?” we can honestly say, “fine.” Because we have that inner peace that Jesus gives us …even in the middle of adverse circumstances and situations.

 

Psalm 23:1-4 [ESV] The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
² He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
³ He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

⁴ Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

 

 

Monday February 5th

Jesus is the Word

 By Jonah Lang

 

Psalms 33:4-5 niv

For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.

John 1:1 niv

The Word Became Flesh

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

 

The word is the place people would go to to find answers. As we read and memorize scripture, the word becomes hidden in hearts.

 

Jesus being the word is the means by which we hear from the Father. 

 

Friday, Feb. 2^nd

Put Your Hope in God

By Gary Bittner

 

Here is this week’s weekend devotional. God bless.

Scripture: Psalm 42:5 (NIV) - "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."

When you were a kid did you ever play the game ‘Have You Ever?’ Well, here’s one for you…

Have you ever experienced times or seasons when your soul feels downcast and disturbed, you just feel blah? We all experience times when the weight of life's challenges and uncertainties can weigh heavily on our hearts, causing us to lose sight of the hope that is available to us. In Psalm 42:5, the psalmist honestly grapples with these feelings, but he quickly reminds himself of the source of true hope – God. We should be as honest.

We may face disappointments, setbacks, or overwhelming circumstances that leave us feeling discouraged and overwhelmed. But in the midst of it all, the psalmist's reminder rings true: "Put your hope in God."

Hope in God is not just a wish or a temporary fix. It is a steadfast confidence in the unchanging love and faithfulness of our Heavenly Father. When our souls are downcast: we can turn to God, knowing that He is our source of strength, comfort, and peace. He is the one who holds our future in His hands and promises to work all things together for our good.

But, putting our hope in God requires us to shift our focus from our circumstances to the character and promises of God. He is our Savior and our God, the one who has proven Himself faithful throughout history. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His love for us is unwavering and His plans for us are good.

When we put our hope in God, we acknowledge that He is in control, even when life feels chaotic. We surrender our worries and anxieties, trusting that He is working behind the scenes, orchestrating every detail according to His perfect plan. We can find peace in His presence and unfailing love.

As we choose to put our hope in God, our perspective changes. We no longer see our circumstances as insurmountable obstacles, but as opportunities for God to display His power and faithfulness. We can praise Him, even in the midst of our trials, knowing that He is good!

Today, if your soul feels downcast and disturbed, if you feel blah, take a moment to reflect on Psalm 42:5. Ask yourself why you are feeling this way and then choose to put your hope in God. Remind yourself of His unchanging love and faithfulness. Seek His presence through prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word. Allow His peace to flood your heart and renew your hope.

You got this.

God bless,

Gary B.

 

Thursday, Feb. 1st

Embrace the Wait (Part 1)

By Galen Troyer

 

Who likes to wait? Do you? How long can you wait before you get tired of waiting? And, what do you do when you’re tired of waiting? Are you one of the rare ones who will remain patient for as long as it takes?

 

I just finished reading Genesis, the first book of the Bible. In this book are included stories of people and how they responded when they found themselves in situations that involved waiting.

 

Let’s look at one today: Joseph, his brothers were jealous of him because he was his father’s favorite son. Some of his brothers wanted to kill him, but one brother, Judah, convinced them to sell him as a slave to the Ishmaelites. In Egypt, one of Pharaoh’s officials, Potiphar, bought him, and soon realized that the Lord was with him and gave him success in whatever he did. Joseph was put in charge of everything that Potiphar had and the Lord’s blessing was on all of it. Everything was going great for Joseph, until Potiphar’s wife tried to get him in bed, and he refused. One day she grabbed him, and in his hurry to get away his cloak came off when he ran out of the house. She lied about what he had done and he was put in prison.

 

In prison, once again the Lord showed favor to Joseph. After he’d been in prison awhile, he interpreted the dreams of Pharoah’s cupbearer and baker. After interpreting their dreams, he said; But when all goes well with you, remember me and show me kindness; mention me to Pharoah and get me out of this prison. For I was forcibly carried off from the land of the Hebrews, and even there I have done nothing to deserve being put in a dungeon. Gen. 40-14-15(NIV)

 

The chief cupbearer was restored to his position with the king.

The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him. V. 23

 

What, how could he forget? Unbelievable. So, two more years passed before Pharoah had a dream, and no one could interpret it. Then the cupbearer remembered, and told Pharoah about Joseph.

 

Why did God allow Joseph to go through all the things he did? Surely there were times he doubted, maybe? But he never took things into his own hands. Because he waited for God to reveal his plans for him, the outcome was amazing. Joseph was put in charge of the whole land of Egypt and ended up saving all of his family and the Egyptians through seven years of drought.

 

You might say Joseph was in training for many years in preparation for the great way God used him. Reading the story of Joseph’s life (Genesis 37-50) is a great encouragement in the benefits of “waiting”

 

To be continued.

 

 

Wednesday, Jan. 31st

Vessels of Mercy

By Bob Elliott

in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory— even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles?  Rom. 9:23-24 esv

In this passage of scripture, the vessels of mercy are those people (us) who love God and are called according to his purposes. It is interesting to note that a vessel serves as a place holder. A vessel is built to contain. Likewise, our purpose in life is to be a container for the presence of the Holy Spirit.

A Vessel doesn’t make something of its own to place inside of itself. Similarly, our righteousness is not built internally by any form of self-righteousness. No, our vessel is a container of Christ’s mercy. What an awesome thought. God deposits his mercy in us. It is not something we can earn or deserve, it is totally unmerited favor.

The Bible describes this as grace upon grace. This speaks of the superlative nature of God’s ability to forgive us from our sins, to love us unconditionally and clothe us with His righteousness. The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning!

Today, know that you are blessed beyond measure by the forgiving power of the cross and the empty tomb.

 

 

Monday, January 29th

Shine and be grateful 

By Jonah Lang

 

Colossians 3:16 niv

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

 

As a church body matures, it is important that the small things don’t get overlooked. Kinda like. don’t grow weary in well doing or being faithful in the small things… 

 

Father, I pray that the Gospel would dwell deeply in us. Give us wisdom and may praises to you be always in our hearts. Amen.

 

 

Friday, Jan. 26th

Don’t Fret, Trust God

By Gary Bittner

 

In these times of turmoil and uncertainty, let us not fret or worry, let is trust our good, good Father. God bless.

 
Scripture: Psalm 37:1-8

In our walk with God we often have times of uncertainty, where the path ahead and future seem unclear, and the challenges in front of us seem overwhelming. During these times, it is easy to become discouraged, anxious, or tempted to take matters into our own hands. However, Psalm 37:1-8 gives us a powerful reminder of how we can get through these seasons with trust and confidence in God's love and care for us.

Verse 1 begins by urging us not to fret or be envious of the wicked. It is a call to resist the temptation of comparing our lives to others, especially when it seems like they are prospering while we are facing difficulties. Instead, we are encouraged to focus our attention on God and His promises.

Verse 3 reminds us to trust in the Lord and do good. In times of uncertainty, it is essential to maintain our trust in God's faithfulness and goodness, even when circumstances seem challenging. Trusting in the Lord means surrendering our plans, desires, and worries to Him, knowing that He is in control and has our best interests at heart.

Verse 4 encourages us to take delight in the Lord, finding our joy and satisfaction in Him alone. When we delight in the Lord, our perspective shifts from worldly concerns to an eternal perspective. We find contentment in His presence, knowing that He is enough for us, regardless of our circumstances.

Verse 5 instructs us to commit our way to the Lord and trust in Him. It is a call to surrender our plans, dreams, and uncertainties to God, acknowledging that He knows what is best for us. As we commit our ways to Him, we trust that He will guide us and lead us on the right path.

Verse 7 reminds us to be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. In a world that encourages instant gratification and quick solutions; waiting patiently can be challenging. However, as we wait on the Lord, we develop a deeper dependence on Him and grow in our faith. It is in the waiting that we learn to trust His timing and His plans.

Verse 8 concludes with the instruction to refrain from anger and turn from wrath. In times of uncertainty, it is easy to become frustrated or angry, especially when we don't understand why things are happening the way they are. However, God calls us to respond with patience, grace, and love, trusting that He is working all things together for our good.

As we meditate on Psalm 37:1-8, let us be reminded of the importance of trusting in God in times of uncertainty. Let’s do our best to resist the temptation to compare ourselves to others and instead focus on His promises. Let us commit our ways to Him, finding our joy and contentment in His presence. And in the waiting, may we develop a deeper dependence on Him, refraining from anger and trusting that He is working all things together for our good.

God bless,

Gary B.

 

 

Thursday, January 25th

It Was Very Good

By Galen Troyer

 

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the face of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

 

And so, the Bible begins by describing creation in detail. And God said, and as He spoke things happened. Let there be light. Let there be an expanse between the waters. Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear. And it was so. And God saw that it was good. 

 

Then God said: Let the land produce vegetation; seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it according to their various kinds. And it was so. And God saw that it was good v. 11-12

 

And God said: Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth. And it was so. And God saw that it was good. v. 14-18

 

And God said: Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the sky. So, God created the great creatures of the sea and every living and moving thing with which the water teems according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. v. 20-21

 

And God said: Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind. And it was so. And God saw that it was good. v. 24-25

 

After speaking things into existence each day for five days, God saw what He had created and each day declared that it was good.As amazing as creation was after only five days, the best was yet to come.

 

Then God said: Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So, God created man in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. v. 26-27 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. v. 31

 

Not just good, but very good!

 

We are created in his image. Think of that. Because we are made in his image, we are called to reflect Him!

 

Church, what an awesome privilege is ours. We are in this together.