Dave’s Monday Blast – June 17, 2024

Before I jump into our conversation this morning, I wanted to affirm (as many already know) that my family will be moving to Tennessee at the end of this month. My wife and I are excited about new opportunities for our family. Both of our children and grandchildren are moving as well. I am uncertain what the Lord has for me, but intend to retire from working full time.

The Tuesday Bible study I refer to each week will continue under the instruction of Rob Terrassa. I am very pleased to be able to continue writing this weekly blog, and to keep you up to date with events and opportunities as AGCC. I have loved interacting with so many of you over the years specific to the content of our “Monday Blast” and look forward to speaking with you in the days to come. I am grateful that so many of you have been attentive to my ramblings all these years.

It has been my great blessing and joy to serve along-side so many saints at Auburn Grace Community Church. It is difficult for me to believe it has been twelve years in June. And no, I have not been fired or encouraged to leave, that’s why I can continue to produce the Monday Blast.

As a reminder from our discussion last week, read Romans 15:4 & 5! 

How does our Heavenly Father inspire hope within us?

1. The Spirit of God encourages us with the Word of God. In Scripture, we discover what kind of God He is. Psalm 119:68 says the Lord is good. He’s not only good in character and the giver of good things, but He’s also the one who determines what is good. He knows what’s best for us at each point in our life and can guide us wisely in every situation. When we understand that God allows difficulties because they are ultimately beneficial for us, we don’t need to be discouraged by them. In time we’ll look back and thank Him for the way He brought us through.

2. God’s Spirit comforts us through prayer. The Lord doesn’t want us to be anxious but to come to Him with every concern (Philippians 4:6). Cry out to Jesus. Pastor Stanley suggests something like this: “Jesus, help me!” Remember this short prayer next time you feel helpless in the face of trouble. No problem, not even yours, is bigger than our omniscient, omnipotent God, and nothing is too small, worldly, or ordinary for Him to get involved and reveal His love.

Next week we will consider three other ways that the Lord Himself encourages us.