Keep Pressing Forward

Week of October 05, 2025

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13, NKJV)

Life is a journey and ministry is a journey of faith. Along that journey, there are times of triumph, times when there are challenges, and times when the path seems unclear. Yet God calls us to press forward, to keep moving, and to stay focused on the vision He has placed before us. It is easy to look back at past victories or past failures and cause us to be content or weigh us down. But the Christian life is forward-looking; it’s about living in His plan. God calls us to see the vision He places in front of us. Vision is not always about grand plans, sometimes it’s about the next faithful step. So, see the vision, and don’t let discouragement blind you.

Life will always have obstacles, so remember that pressing forward is an act of faith – a daily decision to trust God’s plan rather than our own understanding. Keeping forward momentum is not about ignoring reality, it’s about seeing it through God’s eyes. Keep pressing forward. Keep your eyes on the vision. Trust God to multiply your faithfulness.

God Bless, Pastor Rick

Since I’m stepping down from full-time pastoral ministry, this will be my last devotion. I want to thank each and every one of you for receiving these devotions and letting them be part of your life. Pastor Josh will continue the devotion ministry, so if you enjoy a weekly devotion, be sure to sign up for his.

Joy

Week of September 26, 2025

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4, NKJV)

Joy. It’s a word we all long for, yet it often feels elusive in a world full of challenges, deadlines, and disappointments. But the truth is this: real joy doesn’t depend on circumstances. We find real joy in the presence of God. The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, understood this better than most. Everything around him screamed hardship and despair. But still he wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” How is this possible? Not because life is easy, but because the source of his joy – God – is unshakable. Joy comes when you truly believe God is at work. When we choose to rejoice, what we are doing is acknowledging that God is bigger than our problems and more powerful than any obstacle.

Joy also transforms how we relate to others. When our hearts are full of God’s joy, our words become encouraging, our actions are kindness, and our presence is uplifting to people.

I want to encourage you to choose joy in your life. Not because everything is perfect, but because our God is perfect. Not because your circumstances are ideal, but because your Savior is faithful. Will you make the declaration today, “I will rejoice,” because you believe He will carry you through?

God Bless, Pastor Rick

Peace in the Storm

Week of September 19, 2025

39 “Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”” (Mark 4:39-40)

Life often feels like a storm. Sometimes the winds of change blow against us. Like the disciples on the Sea of Galilee, we find ourselves asking, “Lord, don’t you care if we perish?”

Take note that Jesus is not absent. He is right there in the boat. He may prevent the storm from coming, but He is present in the midst of it. When the disciples cry out to Him, He stands and speaks. “Be still.” Instantly the storm obeys His voice. 

This reminds us of some important truths: 

1.     Jesus is with us in every storm. The disciples weren’t left to face the storm alone. 

2.     Jesus has authority over every storm. The wind and waves recognized His voice.

Whatever chaos swirls around you, it is not greater than the power of Christ. 

3.     Jesus uses storms to grow our faith. 

The storm became a classroom where the disciples learned who Jesus really was. 

Here are three ways to anchor your heart this week: 

• Pray - Bring your fears to Jesus. 

• Trust His Presence - Rest in the truth that He is in the boat with you. 

• Remember His Power - The One who commands the seas, also holds your life in His hands. 

I trust you’ll experience His peace. A peace that not only calms the seas around you, but also the storms within you. 

God Bless, Pastor Rick