Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Dear Trinity Baptist Church Family, Psalm 36:7-9 “How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. 8 They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, and You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. 9 For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light.” Verse 9 especially spoke to me this morning. I believe the contrast is also true, without God’s Light we see no light.

I am rejoicing in the sweetness of this Christmas weekend. God’s people were rejoicing in His goodness. Visitors heard the story of God again. Many were especially generous to Trinity Baptist ministers – pastors and teachers.

I am thankful to report that Charlie and Brittany made it safely home from Montana last night. Pray for the Shaeffers as they travel to Ohio today. Pray for my Uncle Dave. He is still fighting the complications of his surgery. He said he was at his weakest this weekend and was wondering what was going on. Pray for his strengthening and encouragement.

I often take some time between these holidays to consider the coming year. It’s a good time to reflect and let God’s Spirit probe in our hearts. May I make some suggestions as you consider the coming calendar year?

• Think about stepping up your private worship. Are you reading the Bible on your own? Perhaps begin with doing the Here A Little found in each week’s bulletin. Or perhaps determine to read one chapter of the Bible every day. If you are already in a good program, is it time to shake it up?
• Consider increasing your involvement at Trinity Baptist. Are you a member? Do you attend on Sunday evenings? Do you participate in a committee or attend Men’s Meetings? Do you teach? Could you join our choir?
• Should you join a small group Bible study? Ladies are beginning a new study on Wednesday mornings. A few good men meet at the church every Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. Perhaps you might join one of our marriage Bible studies called Homebuilders. Do you currently attend our Sunday School – small groups for the whole family that meet on Sunday mornings at 8:45 a.m.? Do your teens attend the bi-weekly Bible study at Pastor Charlie’s?
• Take care of your mind and body. Do you sleep enough? Do you exercise enough? Do you eat right? (There, I’ve included my biggest guilt trips.)

Now, make plans to do whatever the Lord would prompt you to do. And remember, in all these things, the purpose is the glory of God and not the glorification of self.

Embracing Truth. Equipping Saints. Pastor