Posted By: Steve
Dear Family and Friends,
Well week 3 of the quarantine is almost in the books. I am praying that you all are well and keeping busy with things to do! I have been reading a ton, playing games with my kids, watching new shows and yes, spending probably to much time on Facebook. I can’t imagine what life would be like if we were to go back to when we were young and we didn’t have cell phones, social media, and the ability to stream shows like we can now. And be stuck inside! Feels like a nightmare! With all of this new technology it definitely has its advantages. But there are also disadvantages. We need to be mindful of how we come across on social media. Obviously, there is a wealth of information, but the problem is some of it is not healthy for us. In fact, a lot of it isn’t. I fall sometimes into the trap of getting upset with someone because of something they posted or some fact that they wrote on their “wall” and it is false information (I am a fact checker by nature). When this does happen, I want to correct them but if I did it quickly it would come across in an accusatory and unloving way. That isn’t what I want. How do you respond to what people write… to controversial opinions? Are we spreading truth and love in what we post or say to others? Are we reaching out to the people that need hope and a peace because they don’t know the love of Christ? There are lot of people that are scared right now and live in a dark place. Let us, followers of Christ, change that! That is my “daily challenge” to you today. Post on 2 people’s wall today, or if you don’t have Facebook or some type of social media, reach out with a text, email, or even a phone call and say something positive. Something that will give someone a glimpse of the love God has for us. Give them Godly encouragement they so desperately need. You can never over encourage someone. Be the love of Jesus!
John 13:34- A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
1 John 4:7-8 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
1 Corinthians 16:14 Let all that you do be done in love.
1 Thessalonians 5:11- Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
And here are a few great verses to share with your friends and neighbors!
Deuteronomy 31:8- It is the Lord wo goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.
Psalm 46:1- God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Matthew 11:28-29- Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.
John 16:33- I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
As always, I am praying for you all,
In HIS service,
Pastor Steve
