See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. 13But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

-Hebrews 3:12-13

As we sat in small group tonight, I was encouraged to sense the desire of those in our group to not only grow spiritually, but to also walk along side of one another in this journey of Faith. When the walls come down and we get seriously authentic, it is amazing how much we truly share in common: past mistakes, current pressures as well as future hopes and dreams. It is important to realize that as we are bombarded with the pressures of life, we need each other for daily encouragement. With all of the opportunities that come our way, there is no better investment of our time than being involved in a small group for spiritual growth, accountability, and encouragement because it is so easy to be distracted.

-Pastor Sidney

This is a response from a friend of mine to the unexpected death of a loved one.  It bears reading and pondering in our time of pain.


These things don't just "happen".   God isn't nonchalant regarding His sheep.  He gave His life for us, and He's not about to forget about us, or  turn His back on His children...and He doesn't allow His beloved servants to go through such brokenness, horrific heartache and pain without having a purpose.  A divine plan. He counts the cost, He knows the pain, and grieves right along with those who suffer such loss, and through it all, He assures us that He is there, waiting on the other side, ready to carry us to a place of true rest.  We pray that this family will experience His touch in a glorious way. May heaven come down and meet the family where they are.  May the Man of Sorrows, the very Shalom of God...The Prince of Peace,  walk into the room and abide there, with strength and comfort in this time of darkness.