Earlier this week, our Overseers Team carved out part of their day for fasting and prayer. The purpose of this time was for each of us to focus on God and lift the needs and direction of North River as we make decisions together about the future in prayer. I receive a daily reading schedule via email, so these were the verses I focused on during that time:

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. 2 Corinthians 4:8-11

Some thoughts as I focused on these verses:

As Christians, we live in the tension between life and death. While we have challenges, difficult circumstances, disappointments, and hurts that may make us feel like they are destroying us, we have Jesus with us. Being with Jesus does not release us from these challenges but frees us from the bondage of fear and failure of future outcomes. Jesus’ promise to be with us is our hope, so we do not lose heart but trust Jesus, the giver of life, to help us continue moving forward.

Many folks in our congregation are hurting or going through significant challenges right now. Some have felt abandoned, bewildered, or discouraged. There have been times (as recent as this month) when I have felt that way personally. It is normal to feel that way! But know this: Jesus does some of his best work when we are at our worst. Why? Because it is at our worst we realize that we need Jesus more than ever, and we finally surrender to the fact that we cannot navigate this life in our strength. We need Jesus to lead! And because Jesus is faithful, he walks with us, leads us, and sometimes even carries us.

So be encouraged today. Do not lose heart. Press on, because God is with you today wherever you go.

Peace,

Todd Szymczak

Executive Pastor

Back to NR NEWS

The post Weekly Devotion – Todd Szymczak, Executive Pastor appeared first on North River Church - Pembroke, MA.