A different kind of Cancel Culture

“Bitterness is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.” –Ron McManus

The anger and bitterness can eat us up for years, while doing nothing to the person we’re holding the grudge against. God’s wisdom is pretty clear and worth following.

Cancel the debt…Just like He did for you and me!

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 NIV)

Each word a gift

Here’s some extra relational homework for you this weekend. Carefully weigh every word before you say it. See how it measures up to this standard before it comes flying out…

“Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift. ” (Ephesians 4:29 MSG)

Faith over Fear

This phrase took on it’s own momentum in the past year. While some people used it to shame other people for being concerned about their family’s health, I think there is value in revisiting what this phrase should mean to us.

First. Our faith is not in ourselves, our own effort or creativity. Our faith is in the One who holds the world in His hands.

Also, fear itself isn’t all bad. If it wasn’t for fear, I wouldn’t be careful while near a steep cliff on my mountain bike. We need a little fear to keep us out of trouble.

Maybe we can all agree on this: I don’t know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future! It’s not that I’m bigger than anything life can throw at me, but my Lord is!

“They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” -Psalm 112:7

Don’t be a fool

I’m going to admit that one of the verses from this past weekend’s message makes me smile every time I read it.

It’s simple really, but so true.

I’m actually, even at my advanced age, still learning how true this really is. So, I’m trying to be quiet more…so I can listen more.

“Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.” (Proverbs 17:28 NLT)

Online or in Person???

I think our world and culture has been forever changed by this pandemic. However, instead of whining about the changes, I think there are some very good things going on right now. Here’s a few on my list:

1. We now have a real quality live-stream for our Sunday services. We have connected with so many people who would have never found our church otherwise.
2. When in person, I’m watching people appreciate it more than ever! They know how special and powerful it can be to stand side-by-side with other people. In fact, our worship experience in person is better than ever.
3. Social Media connections. I started “60 Seconds with PJ” in March of 2020 on Instagram and Facebook. It’s still going strong and I’ve met so many people all over the Country (and World) who have been encouraged by it.
4. I don’t think there is another experience like IN PERSON worship, but I am seeing all of these other things being used by God for His purposes.

The bottom line is not OR…but AND!

We will continue to use these tools to do what God has called us to do…however it looks. One thing doesn’t change, and that’s our mission: Stepping In, Building Up, Living Out!!!

“Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25 MSG)