Weekly Encouragement from Pastor Tim
A brief message and a few announcements.
So Thankful
Last Sunday, we were reminded to be thankful for the righteousness we have in Christ. Paul said, “Clean out the old leaven so that you may be a new unleavened batch, as indeed you are” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Despite their obvious moral failures, Paul saw the church as already unleavened in Christ. In Christ, we too are already justified, not based on our righteousness, but on the basis of Christ’s righteousness. Is there anything more worthy of our thanksgiving than the fact that our salvation is secure? I can’t think of anything.
Speaking of justification and eternal security, Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” And then Paul continues to say as a result of this justification to boast in two things: 1) in the hope of the glory of God and 2) in our afflictions (Romans 5:2-3).
Are we planing to boast about our afflictions this Thanksgiving? Many of us suffer from health issues, financial worries, relationship troubles, etc. And the temptation might be to let those things discourage us. But the believer who knows his salvation is secure in Christ doesn’t view God’s discipline as a negative. Rather he sees it as a part of his plan of sanctification.
Romans 5:3 goes on to tell us even to celebrate our afflictions “because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope.” From God’s perspective, the things believers suffer should be celebrated because they’re for our ultimate good.
So let’s be extra thankful this season, for our secure salvation in Christ but also for all the afflictions that are helping us become what “indeed you are.”
For God’s glory,
Pastor Tim
Ryan & Jenneke Schnee, Middle Lake, SK
Middle Lake is a small community of 250 people, predominantly agriculture based with an increasing number of seasonal recreational property owners. This is our 12th year at Middle Lake Gospel Church, and we are beginning a change in generational leadership. We are excited to have a few new families attending with us.
Prayer Requests:
Please pray for the discipleship of new attendees.
Pray for unity in leadership transitions.
Pray for our collective hospitality initiatives (relational/outreach).
Jenneke Schnee suffers from long-COVID19.
Announcements/Prayer Requests
Gary’s father died Tuesday morning. He was 97. Please pray for the family as they make funeral arrangements and grieve his loss.
Nan Smith’s husband, Ron, is going through chemo for cancer. Please pray for them.
Christmas Decorations - After worship this Sunday, Nov 27th, we will set up the Christmas trees and other decorations in the church building. Everyone is encouraged to help as they are able.
Ladies’ Christmas Party - Starts at 4 pm on Dec 3rd. Please bring a $10-limit wrapped gift, and an appetizer or dessert to share. Eating, fellowship, games & caroling fun will be had by all! Contact Aletha for more information.