Nourished & Disciplined • 1 Peter 2:2

It’s important for us to remember the basics. 1 Peter 2:2 says, “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby.” Just like babies can’t grow without food, neither can followers of Christ grow without pure spiritual nourishment of the Word of God. 1 Timothy 4:7 reminds us to “exercise [ourselves] toward godliness.” Another element crucial to growth is our need for discipline. We must train ourselves in the things of the Spirit so that we may grow in skill and effectiveness in our ministry for Christ. Focus on these and your spiritual life will be strong and fruitful.
Christopher Rodríguez, Singles’ Pastor

Our Help Comes From God • Psalm 112:1-2

In emergency situations, we dial 911 for assistance and help. Who do we call when we are in a hopeless crisis where 911 and all our earthly resources are helpless? “Where does our help come from? Our help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth,” (Psalm 112:1-2). When Jesus was troubled and deeply distressed, He called out “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:33-36). God, our Father in Heaven, is “our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1).
George Lee, Ministry Assistant

Not My Own • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“You are not your own. For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” Many times, we get frustrated about the things going on in our lives. We may get angry when things don’t go our way or when things come against us, when all along we forget that this life isn’t our own; Jesus paid for it. It belongs to Him alone, and yet He loves us so much that He will bless us beyond measure when we do live solely to glorify Him.
Zak Vázquez, Ministry Assistant

God Sees and Knows • Acts 23:11

In Acts 23:11, after what might easily have felt like a completely failed attempt to preach, Paul finds himself stirring an uproar in the Jewish courts and being imprisoned by the Roman government. Then the Lord steps in with this encouragement, “Just like you testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must witness in Rome.” God knew exactly where Paul was at emotionally and a close inspection reveals that God was affirming to Paul that what happened in Jerusalem was “for” Him, and not a failure. God sees the work you do for Him and He knows your heart.
Christopher Rodríguez, Singles’ Pastor

Our Appearance • 1 Thessalonians 5:22

Abstain from all appearance of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22). Many times as Christians we see how close we can get to sin without it truly being sin. Like trying to wet your feet but not drown. The only problem is that sin is a tsunami, not a pond. We are called to look like and do the total opposite of sin, to go completely out of our way so that people can not even think that we are in sin. What it comes down to is this; are we trying to please ourselves or our Father?
Zak Vázquez, Ministry Assistant

Listen with a Ready Heart • Matthew 2

In Matthew 2, we read that when Jesus was born God announced it for everyone to see with a star. Most people didn’t notice it; but there were a few “wise men” in the east, who were watching and recognized the significance of what was occurring. They saw the star, and made the long journey to Israel to worship the King whose birth this star announced. Sadly, we frequently don’t notice the messages that God so readily sends us; and, when we do, we don’t respond wholeheartedly to Him. This Christmas, let’s listen to the Lord with a ready heart.
Christopher Rodríguez, Singles’ Pastor

Disciplined vs. Disqualified • 1 Corinthians 9:26-27

But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified (1 Corinthians 9:26-27). It is human nature to believe that your life is your own and that your decisions only affect you, but we tend to forget that our lives are not our own. Jesus Christ gave His life completely for us, so are we not willing to do the same? Do we discipline our life in a manner that we will not be disqualified? Do we live a life that is truly above the normal standard?
Zak Vázquez, Ministry Assistant