Another new year….wow. Happy 2015!

I don’t know what is going on with you personally as we start a new year, but I do know what is going on in the world today.  We can very easily feel stressed out and like things are out of control.  I would like to suggest two things that should help.

First of all, commit to prayer.  Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  A part of prayer is simply casting our cares upon Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7), and it really does help!

Secondly, read God’s Word.  2 Peter 1:19 says, “And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.”  Scripture helps us to understand God, to follow God, and to be comforted by God.

I know that some of you have been following the reading plan in “Search the Scriptures” by Alan Stibbs.  This is the same reading plan that is in the bulletin every week.  The advantage of having the full book is that there are thought provoking questions for each day.  By following this plan you go through the Bible in three years.  Valerie and I are currently using this plan for our daily devotions, and I would encourage you to join us!  However, if you would like to try something a little more challenging, I would suggest the “Daily Walk Bible.”  It is one of my personal favorites because it includes an explanation of the passage for every day, as well as a devotional thought based on the reading.

We have a number of events coming up in the New Year.  The women’s ministry team is sponsoring a ladies movie night, we’re planning a special fellowship lunch, we will have our annual Superbowl party (Go Pack!), and we have a change in our Sunday morning Adult Bible Study.  Rather than having our Sunday evening Bible study through the dark and stormy winter month, I’ll be teaching on the Minor Prophets at 9:15 on Sunday mornings. I hope to see you there!