Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Can you believe it’s June already? Where is this year going! Seniors graduating and school finishing up yet another year. So we just about made it through half of 2022 and for a lot of us, it’s been a challenging year so far.

Remember, God’s power is made perfect in weakness. Whether life is easy or hard, whether we feel blessed or burdened, it is always God’s strength that sustains us. Perseverance comes through the Holy Spirit and may be the most valuable blessing God can provide to get us through daily life in this broken world. We can still rejoice knowing God’s power never fails.

The Lord said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” … That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. – 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

As we plan for the rest of 2022, let’s also learn the secret of being content in every situation. How about this: I will learn to be content no matter how the coming days unfold. The secret, of course, is to lean on God’s strength and to trust in His provision rather than expecting the things of this world to satisfy our hearts.

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:11-13

As we look to the future of Emory, let’s also ask God for peace that passes understanding. Do you feel anxious about the uncertain future? If so, you are not alone. We face many challenges that could easily derail our lives and send us spinning into despair. But God offers us peace, even in the midst of sorrow or difficulty. We can’t fully understand or explain it, but when we feel peace in our souls, we know it could only come from the God who loves us more than we deserve.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

Let us look to Jesus and set our minds on things above. God doesn’t promise us happiness in this life, but He does promise that our resurrection life will be better in every way. Sometimes making the best of hard circumstances is all we can do, and we should never forget to look up and look ahead. Eternal life with Jesus will be more glorious than we can imagine. That is the future we should set our hearts on.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. – Colossians 3:1-2

Let the Church say Amen!

Everyone In Christ!
Pastor Steve