September 19th, 2024
by Pastor James A. Riggs
by Pastor James A. Riggs
Midweek Encouragement: "Cultivating Real Connections"
Hey Church Family,
As we navigate our busy lives, it’s easy to feel disconnected—even when we’re constantly surrounded by people. Whether it’s the hustle at work, family obligations, or just the pace of life, meaningful connections can often take a backseat. But let’s remember that God created us for community, and genuine relationships are vital for our spiritual and emotional health.
This week, I encourage you to pause and think about the relationships in your life. Who haven’t you connected with in a while? Who might be needing a word of encouragement or just a simple "How are you?"
Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us of the importance of encouraging one another and not giving up on meeting together. It’s not just about gathering in church on Sundays—it’s about cultivating real connections every day.
Whether it’s sending a quick text, grabbing a coffee with someone, or simply checking in with a friend or neighbor, these small actions can make a big difference. Let’s be intentional this week about reaching out and strengthening our bonds. After all, it’s through these connections that we truly reflect the love of Christ.
Stay connected, stay encouraged, and let’s build each other up!
Midweek Devotion: "The Power of Gathering Together"
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42-44 (NIV) "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common."
Reflection: In the early church, believers were deeply committed to one another. They met regularly, shared meals, prayed together, and supported each other in every way possible. This kind of community is powerful and transformative. It’s not just about meeting needs but about building deep, genuine relationships rooted in faith and love.
In our modern context, we might not be able to meet as often as the early church, but the principle remains the same. Authentic community is built on intentionality—making time for others, sharing our lives, and supporting one another. It’s about being present for each other, whether that’s in person, through a phone call, or even a text message that lets someone know you care.
Challenge:
• Intentional Connection: This week, make it a point to connect with someone in your church community. It could be someone you haven’t seen in a while or someone new you’d like to get to know better.
• Prayer Focus: Pray specifically for the relationships in your life. Ask God to help you build and strengthen those connections and to guide you in being a source of encouragement to others.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the gift of community. Help me to be intentional in building and nurturing the relationships you’ve placed in my life. Give me the courage to reach out, the wisdom to know how to support others, and the love to reflect your grace in all my interactions. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
In God's Grip, Pastor James
Hey Church Family,
As we navigate our busy lives, it’s easy to feel disconnected—even when we’re constantly surrounded by people. Whether it’s the hustle at work, family obligations, or just the pace of life, meaningful connections can often take a backseat. But let’s remember that God created us for community, and genuine relationships are vital for our spiritual and emotional health.
This week, I encourage you to pause and think about the relationships in your life. Who haven’t you connected with in a while? Who might be needing a word of encouragement or just a simple "How are you?"
Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us of the importance of encouraging one another and not giving up on meeting together. It’s not just about gathering in church on Sundays—it’s about cultivating real connections every day.
Whether it’s sending a quick text, grabbing a coffee with someone, or simply checking in with a friend or neighbor, these small actions can make a big difference. Let’s be intentional this week about reaching out and strengthening our bonds. After all, it’s through these connections that we truly reflect the love of Christ.
Stay connected, stay encouraged, and let’s build each other up!
Midweek Devotion: "The Power of Gathering Together"
Scripture Reading: Acts 2:42-44 (NIV) "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common."
Reflection: In the early church, believers were deeply committed to one another. They met regularly, shared meals, prayed together, and supported each other in every way possible. This kind of community is powerful and transformative. It’s not just about meeting needs but about building deep, genuine relationships rooted in faith and love.
In our modern context, we might not be able to meet as often as the early church, but the principle remains the same. Authentic community is built on intentionality—making time for others, sharing our lives, and supporting one another. It’s about being present for each other, whether that’s in person, through a phone call, or even a text message that lets someone know you care.
Challenge:
• Intentional Connection: This week, make it a point to connect with someone in your church community. It could be someone you haven’t seen in a while or someone new you’d like to get to know better.
• Prayer Focus: Pray specifically for the relationships in your life. Ask God to help you build and strengthen those connections and to guide you in being a source of encouragement to others.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the gift of community. Help me to be intentional in building and nurturing the relationships you’ve placed in my life. Give me the courage to reach out, the wisdom to know how to support others, and the love to reflect your grace in all my interactions. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
In God's Grip, Pastor James
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