The Crucified Men Beside Jesus

Week of March 31, 2023

“And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.”  (Luke 23:33, NKJV)

Easter is just around the corner, so I want to share an interesting story that took place on the day that Christ was crucified.  To the left of Jesus, on a cross, was a robber and a rebel, but that is not the worst that can be said about him.  This man also had no remorse, even though the savior of sinners was hanging beside him. So, that man died unsaved.  

To the right of Jesus was another robber and rebel on a cross.  He was no better than the other robber and rebel to the left of Jesus. He, though, representing guilt for sin and repentance, gained eternal life that day.  This criminal cast himself upon the mercy and love of Jesus.  He confessed his guilt, so Jesus said, “today, you will be with me in Heaven.”  That promise is made to anyone and everyone who will drink from the river of grace.

There is a valuable lesson to be learned here by the man on the cross to the left of Jesus. That man reminds us that we can live in close proximity to the Savior and still go unsaved.  God has provided a river of grace to whosoever will, but if you do not drink from that river you will die of thirst from a spiritual standpoint. 

God Bless, Pastor Rick

I Will Trust Him

Week of March 24, 2023

“So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight.”  (2 Corinthians 5:6–7, NKJV)

When you battle with difficulties and disappointments or you have to make decisions, do you trust God enough to place yourself and your future in His hands?  Do you believe that whatever comes across your path it will always work together for your good?

When Jesus came to this earth, He confirmed that His love for us is unconditional.  When we become convinced of that we will be assured that He will not allow anything that will destroy you to come our way.  So, trust in God unconditionally in everything you undertake.

To ensure peace of mind discuss your problems, your fears, and the important decisions with Him in prayer.  Remember, you are talking with someone who calls you friend.  He will guide you by His Spirit and take you to the place where you have peace.

God Bless, Pastor Rick

Daily Bread

Week of March 17, 2023

 “Give us this day our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:11, NKJV)

Jesus often reminded His closest followers not to worry. He told them not to be anxious about tomorrow’s needs or its potential problems. Jesus’ teachings always stressed a daily reliance on the Father, who provides for His children on a day-by-day basis.

The Old Testament teaches us that when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness, they had no way to acquire food, but God miraculously provided food for them daily. God’s provision was sufficient for one day at a time. If the Israelites stored more than they could eat in a day, it spoiled them. God wanted to teach the Israelites to trust in Him daily. God wanted them to know His grace was sufficient for each day.

God instructs us to trust Him daily. We are also told to consider the ant and how she stores it for the upcoming winter. Trusting God daily does not make us careless with our futures; rather, it keeps our relationship with the Lord in its proper perspective. We do not depend upon a pantry but upon the grace of God. God is aware of what tomorrow will bring and how we should prepare for it. He knows the problems we will face, and He has already made provisions for us to overcome. He only asks for our daily trust. If we walk with Him closely His grace will be sufficient for today’s needs!

God Bless, Pastor Rick