Pastor's Ponderings, March 18, 2025

Put God First

 

In his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey talks about the importance of "putting first things first." It means making time for what truly matters in life. For those who love God, that means living in a way that honors Him. The Bible reminds us, “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).

 

But the world often tells us something different. In a 2023 article, Jo Nash, Ph.D., wrote Philosophical Perspective. This described the mindset of hedonism — the idea that life is about chasing pleasure and avoiding pain. The message is, “If it feels good, do it. You only live once.” That’s the kind of thinking that encourages people to put themselves first. 

The Bible, though, gives us a different perspective. Our time on earth is short — maybe 70 or 80 years (Psalm 90:10) — so what really matters? The Bible makes it clear: the most important thing is to honor God and follow His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). We were created in His image, and He loves us so much that He gave His Son, Jesus, to die for us (John 3:16). That kind of love is deeper than any pleasure or success the world can offer.

 

It’s easy to get caught up in chasing success, wealth, or recognition — but Christ offers us something greater. He wants to live within us (1 John 4:4), and He’s bigger than anything this world can give — more valuable than money, fame, or power.

 

God promises to provide for us (Philippians 4:19). He promises to heal, comfort, and give us eternal life (Psalm 37:4). So why not put Him first? When we make God our priority, He blesses us beyond what we could ever imagine. Let’s decide today to put God first — and trust Him to take care of the rest.

 

1 Corinthians 10:31
New International Version

31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

 

Psalm 34:3

New King James Version

3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together.

 

Psalm 90:9-10

New International Version

9 All our days pass away under your wrath; we finish our years with a moan.

10 Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.

 

Ecclesiastes 12:13

New International Version

13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.

 

John 3:16

New International Version

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

 

1 John 4:4

New International Version

4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

 

Philippians 4:19

New International Version

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

 

Psalm 37:4

New International Version

4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

 

Pastor's Ponderings, March 7, 2025

We Are Free in Christ

 

In The Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood wrote, “A rat in a maze is free to go anywhere, as long as it stays inside the maze.” That’s a powerful image—one that reflects how many people feel today. The world tries to box us in with fear, bad habits, and false beliefs. The enemy wants to keep us trapped, convincing us that we’ll never truly be free.

 

But here’s the good news: We are not rats in a maze. We are created in God’s image, and through Christ, we have real freedom. “Whom the Son sets free is free indeed” (John 8:36).

 

God didn’t create us to live limited lives—He wants us to experience the abundant life He promised. When Jesus died, was buried, and rose again, He declared, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). And through Him, we have been given purpose, strength, and everything we need to live a life that honors God (2 Peter 1:3, Philippians 4:13).

 

But the world will always try to define us, confine us, and mold us into its image. It pressures us to conform, often for the benefit of others rather than for our own good. That’s why we must hold onto this truth: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). God calls us higher—to sit with Him in heavenly places, not to be stuck in earthly traps.

 

So let’s walk in the freedom we’ve been given. Let’s step out of anything holding us back and boldly live out our faith. We are not prisoners to our past, our mistakes, or our circumstances. We belong to God, and He has already delivered us from darkness into His glorious light (Colossians 1:12).

 

You are free. Now go and live like it.

 

John 8:36

New International Version

36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

 

Matthew 28:18-19

New International Version

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

 

2 Peter 1:3

New International Version

3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness

 

Philippians 4:13

New International Version

13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

 

Romans 8:31

New International Version

31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

 

Colossians 1:12

New International Version

12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.

Pastor's Ponderings, February 24, 2025

Love God, Love Others

In April 2013, a 14-year-old boy named Cristian Marian Becheanu did something incredible. In a small town in Romania, a three-year-old boy named Gabriel fell 15 meters (about 50 feet) into a narrow well. For 11 long hours, professional rescuers did everything they could to save him, but nothing seemed to work. The situation felt hopeless.

 

Then Cristian stepped in. With great courage, he allowed himself to be lowered headfirst into the well. A few tense moments later, he emerged—holding Gabriel safely in his arms. The crowd watching burst into relief and joy. A child’s life was saved because one person was willing to take a risk.

 

Cristian’s bravery reminds us of an even greater rescue—the one Jesus made for all of us. He didn’t just risk His life; He gave it. He took on death itself so that we could have life. He went to the Cross, was buried in the grave, and three days later, He rose again, declaring that all power was in His hands (Matthew 28:18). He loves us so much that He sacrificed everything to save us (1 John 3:16).

 

Just as Gabriel’s parents were desperate to see their child saved, God longs for us to be saved, too. But He doesn’t want us to live in fear—He wants us to trust Him. Jesus tells us not to be troubled because He has everything under control (John 14:1). He has a plan for our lives, one filled with hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

 

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for another (John 15:13). Cristian risked his life to save a little boy, but Jesus went even further—He gave up His life so that we could live eternally with Him. That kind of love changes everything. Because He first loved us, let’s choose to love Him in return—and love others along the way.

 

Matthew 28:18

King James Version

18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

 

1 John 3:16

New International Version

16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

 

Hebrews 2:3

New International Version

3 how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him.

 

Ephesians 2:6

New International Version

6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,

 

John 14:1-2

New International Version

1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God[a]; believe also in me.
2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?

 

Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

 

John 15:13

New International Version

13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

Pastor's Ponderings, February 15, 2025

How Should We Behave in 2025?

As we step into 2025, it’s clear that the world is changing—especially when it comes to how people treat one another. Kindness is sometimes seen as weakness, and bad behavior is often celebrated. Jokes can cross the line into cruelty, and hurting others is brushed off as entertainment. In times like these, it’s important to ask: How should we behave?

 

The Bible gives us a clear answer. Ephesians 4:29-32 (The Message) encourages us to:

 

·      Be mindful of our words

·      Avoid causing grief to God

·      Show gentleness and kindness

·      Forgive others, just as God has forgiven us

 

But what if people around us don’t act the same way? What if they continue to be unkind, ungrateful, or uncaring? While we can’t control others, we are responsible for our own actions. One day, we’ll all answer for how we lived (Romans 14:11-12). That’s why we’re called to focus on our own hearts, rather than judging others (Romans 14:4, 13).

 

A great way to check ourselves is to ask: How would I feel if someone treated me this way? Would we want others to judge us harshly? Would we appreciate being treated with kindness, even when we don’t deserve it? The Bible reminds us of a simple but powerful rule: “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31). And whenever we have the chance, let’s choose to do good (Galatians 6:10).

 

In a world where negativity is easy, let’s stand out by choosing kindness, integrity, and love. Because no matter how much the world changes, doing good will never go out of style.

 

Ephesians 4:29-32

The Message

29 Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.

30 Don’t grieve God. Don’t break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don’t take such a gift for granted.

31-32 Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

 

Romans 14:11-13

New International Version

11 It is written: “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,

‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’”

12 So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.

13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.

 

Romans 14:4

New International Version

4 Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand.

 

Luke 6:31

New International Version

31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.

 

Galatians 6:10

New International Version

10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Pastor's Ponderings, February 7, 2025

What Should We Do Next? Let’s Turn to God

In the 1976 movie Network, the character Howard Beale famously declares, “I don’t have to tell you things are bad. Everybody knows things are bad.” He talks about unemployment, financial struggles, and fear—things that, honestly, still sound familiar today. His solution? Shouting frustrations out the window.

 

But God offers us something far better.The Bible reminds us to “learn to do right, seek justice, defend the oppressed, and help those in need” (Isaiah 1:17). And in another passage, He promises that if we seek Him and turn away from wrongdoing, He will bring healing to our land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

 

That’s comforting, isn’t it? Even when we’ve messed up, God assures us that He can restore us. If we choose to follow Him, we’ll experience His goodness (Isaiah 1:18-19). Temptation is real, but God always provides a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13). He has plans for us—plans for hope and a good future (Jeremiah 29:11).

 

So today, instead of focusing on fear, let’s focus on Him. Instead of dwelling on weakness, let’s rely on His strength. Instead of holding onto hate, let’s embrace His love. No matter how overwhelming life feels, God is calling us to come to Him (Revelation 22:17). He is, and always will be, the answer to life’s challenges.

 

Isaiah 1:17-19

New International Version

17 Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.

Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.

18 “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;

though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.

 

2 Chronicles 7:14

New International Version

14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land

 

1 Corinthians 10:13

New International Version

13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

 

Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future

 

Revelation 22:17

New International Version

17 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

Pastor's Pondering, January 29, 2025

Doing God’s Will To Receive His Invitation

In today’s world, so many people chase after status, recognition, and power. We’re often told that success comes from who you know, being in the right circles, and making the right connections. The idea is that if you’re part of the elite, you’ll thrive—while those without the right connections struggle.

But have you ever wondered, who does God invite into His presence? Psalm 15:1 (The Message) asks this very question: “God, who gets invited to dinner at your place? How do we get on your guest list?”

If we love God, it’s important to understand what pleases Him. The Bible tells us that God has raised us up to sit in heavenly places with Christ (Ephesians 2:5-6). But how do we live in a way that truly honors Him? Psalm 15 gives us the answer:

·      Live with integrity

·    ·        Speak truth from the heart

·      ·      Avoid gossip and slander

·      ·      Treat others with kindness and fairness

·      ·      Keep promises, even when it’s difficult

·      ·      Help those in need without expecting something in return

That’s a tall order, right? No one can do these things perfectly all the time. But the good news is—we don’t have to do it alone. Philippians 2:13 reminds us that “God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.” It’s not about striving in our own strength; it’s about allowing God to work in us. When we invite Him into our hearts, He shapes us to reflect His righteousness (Galatians 2:20, 2 Corinthians 5:21).

So instead of trying to earn our way in, let’s surrender to God. Let’s live in a way that reflects His love and truth. And one day, we’ll hear the words we all long for: “Well done, my good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord.” (Matthew 25:23).

Psalm 15:1

The Message

15 God, who gets invited to dinner at your place? How do we get on your guest list?

Ephesians 2:5, 6

New International Version

5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.
6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus

 Psalm 15:2-5

New International Version

2 The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart;

3 whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others;

4 who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord;

who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind;

5 who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.

Philippians 2:13

New International Version

13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

 Galatians 2:20

New International Version

20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

2 Corinthians 5:21

New International Version

21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Matthew 25:23

New King James Version

23 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

Pastor's Ponderings, January 23, 2025

 Our Task in 2025: Glorify Christ in Everyday Life

 

Can you believe January 2025 is almost behind us? It feels like we just rang in the new year, and now it’s time to pause and reflect. For many of us, New Year’s resolutions are still fresh on our minds. Maybe you resolved to be healthier, spend more time with loved ones, or focus on personal growth. But as the days go by, distractions pop up—and let’s face it, life can pull us off track.

 

But here’s something worth considering: What if our ultimate goal this year isn’t just about personal achievements? What if our main mission is to glorify Christ in our everyday lives? After all, as 2 Corinthians 4:4 reminds us, our lives are meant to reflect His glory.

 

So, let’s ask ourselves: What have we done for Him so far this year? Have we taken time to deepen our relationship with God—whether through reading the Bible, praying, or simply being still in His presence? Have we looked beyond our own needs and reached out to others in meaningful ways?

 

Think about it. Have you fed someone who was hungry? Called or visited someone who’s sick? Offered comfort to someone feeling lonely? These acts of kindness may seem small, but they carry a profound impact. And they’re not just good deeds—they’re ways to show Christ’s love in action.

 

People all around us are in need—not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. Ephesians 1:6-7 reminds us that God’s grace is abundant and meant for everyone. When we share that grace, we become a conduit for His blessings in the world. Isn’t that an incredible purpose?

 

Just a few days ago, on January 21, 2025, the Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde delivered a heartfelt message at a national prayer service. Her appeal for mercy was a powerful reminder of the healing and renewal we’re all longing for—in our land, in our bodies, and in our spirits. Her words resonated deeply: We want God to use us to be a blessing to others.

 

That’s a challenge worth embracing. What if, this year, we made it our mission to take on the concerns of our brothers and sisters as if they were our own? What if we resolved not to rest until we’ve done all that God has called us to do?

 

At the end of his life, the Apostle Paul reflected on his journey with these powerful words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

 

Isn’t that what we all hope for? To look back and know we gave it our all? To feel the satisfaction of having lived a life that glorifies Christ? So, as 2025 unfolds, let’s stay focused on the task at hand. Let’s glorify Christ not just in the big moments, but in the small, everyday ones, too. Whether it’s through a kind word, a helping hand, or a quiet prayer, every act of love matters. Together, let’s make this year one that truly reflects His glory.

 

2 Corinthians 4:4

New International Version

4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

 

Ephesians 1:6, 7

New International Version

6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,

7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

 

2 Timothy 4:7-8

New International Version

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

 

Pastor's Ponderings, January 14, 2025

In this week’s Pastor’s Ponderings, we are blessed to have my youngest daughter, Denise Fair Razo, write an awesome blog!  

Hopefully, everyone will focus on the word of God and realize what God is asking for us to do to be blessed

The Year of Preparation: A Foundation for the Future

As I reflect on the direction for 2025, one word continues to resonate deeply: preparation. This year is not just about achieving goals but about building a strong foundation for what lies ahead. It’s about aligning my heart, home, and habits with God’s purpose to prepare for the blessings and responsibilities of 2026. Proverbs 31:25-26 reminds us that the virtuous woman “is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Her preparation allows her to face the future with confidence—a goal I strive toward.

 

Preparation is not only spiritual but also practical. The Bible speaks often about stewardship. Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” This verse inspires me to set my family up for financial success by organizing our resources, saving intentionally, and focusing on investments that can grow generational wealth. These actions honor God by demonstrating faithfulness with what He has entrusted to us.

 

As I’ve been reflecting on this journey, I’ve been reading James Clear’s Atomic Habits, which emphasizes the power of small, consistent actions to create lasting change. Clear writes, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” This perspective has encouraged me to examine the daily habits I’m cultivating. Whether it’s dedicating time for prayer, establishing routines for financial stewardship, or committing to physical health, these small actions build the systems that prepare me for God’s greater plans. Proverbs 16:3 advises, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” When paired with intentional habits, preparation becomes an act of faith and discipline.

 

As a wife and a mom, preparation also means dedicating myself to nurturing the heart of my home. Whether it’s setting aside intentional time for family meals, supporting my husband’s goals, or being present and patient with my child, these acts of love create a legacy of care and stability. Ephesians 5:15-16 reminds us to “be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” This wisdom inspires me to cherish the moments I have with my family and prepare a home filled with faith and grace.

 

Ultimately, preparation is an act of trust in God. Hebrews 11:7 says, “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family.” Like Noah, we don’t always know what lies ahead, but we trust God’s leading. This year, my preparation is my act of obedience and faith, knowing that the work done today—both spiritually and practically—will bear fruit tomorrow. I encourage you to join me in making 2025 a year of intentional preparation, setting the stage for God’s greater plans in the years to come.

 

Proverbs 31:25-26

New International Version

25 “...is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. 

26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

 

Proverbs 13:22a 

New International Version

22 “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”

 

Proverbs 16:3

New International Version

3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”

 

Ephesians 5:15-16

New International Version

15  “...be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 

16 making the most of every opportunity.”

 

Hebrews 11:7a  

7 “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family.”