Putting Life into Focus August 31, 2025

Jared Boser

1. Life is a Temporary Assignment

The Bible often describes life as fleeting and temporary, using metaphors like a mist, a fast runner, a breath, and a wisp of smoke. Job 8:9 reminds us of the brevity of life, and King David prayed for God to help him see life from a divine perspective (Psalm 39:4). We are described as aliens, pilgrims, foreigners, strangers, and visitors in this world (Psalm 119:19; 1 Peter 1:17; 1 Peter 2:11). This perspective helps us remember that our time on earth is short and that we are just passing through. The Devil, however, wants us to believe that this world is our permanent home.

2. Your Identity is in Eternity, and Your Homeland is Heaven

God calls His children to think differently about life compared to unbelievers (Philippians 3:18-20). He warns against living for the here and now and adopting worldly values, priorities, and lifestyles (James 4:4). Instead, we are to be role models and ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary (2 Corinthians 4:18). As C.S. Lewis aptly put it, “All that is not eternal is eternally useless.”

3. We Were Created for Something Much Better

The fact that earth is not our ultimate home explains why followers of Christ often experience difficulty, sorrow, and rejection. We are not completely happy here because we were made for more (John 16:33; John 16:20; John 15:18-19). The Bible’s “hall of fame” of faith, including Noah, Abraham, Jacob, and Moses, shows that it takes faith to live as a foreigner in this world, not extreme riches and power (Hebrews 11:13, 16). We need to desire something better, something eternal.

An often-repeated story illustrates this point well. A retiring missionary or preacher returns to America on the same boat as the president of the United States. While the president is welcomed with cheering crowds, a military band, a red carpet, banners, and media coverage, the preacher slips off the ship unnoticed. Feeling self-pity and resentment, he complains to God, who gently reminds him, “But my child, you’re not home yet.” Keeping this thought in our hearts and minds can help us see life as less trivial and overwhelming.

If you are not a Christian, remember that this life is almost over; it is a vapor. God has a home prepared for you if you simply obey His commands.  We are not promised tomorrow, and our eternal home is prepared. Let’s get ready to go home.

Spiritual Success for One Another August 24, 2025

In the benediction of the letter to the Hebrew Christians, the Writer concluded saying…

“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.  “(Hebrews 13:20–21)

Within this final passage of the letter, we see an example of a prayer for the spiritual success of others. We all know that we should pray for each other, it’s a Christian privilege and duty. “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. A prayer of a righteous person, when it is brought about, can accomplish much.”  (James 5:16) Yes, we are quick to pray for each other when we are sick or facing a serious health crisis. We pray for the brother or sister who has fallen on hard times and needs employment. We pray for the church in general and the success of the congregation. But do we ask the Lord to build up those individuals who struggle with their spirituality?

When the Hebrew Writer prayed that these Christians be “made complete”, he is asking the Lord to help them mature spiritually. As we pray, we must not forget the Christian who struggles in their relationships. The one who has difficulty with self-control and a sharp tongue. We should pray for the Christian who chooses pleasure over service and neglects weekly worship.  It is God’s truth that we help the spiritually weak. (Rom. 15:1) So as you pray today, please include a request for the spiritual success of one another.  

Jay Launius – 2025
Maud Church of Christ
Maud, Texas

Finding Rest In God’s Forgiveness                              August 17, 2025

In Psalms 46-51, we see a powerful picture of God’s steadfast love and willingness to forgive.  These chapters remind us that God is our refuge and strength (Psalms 46:1) and that we can call upon Him in times of trouble, just as David did in his prayers.  When we pause to be still (Psalms 46:10), we discover that true rest comes from trusting God, acknowledging our sins, and receiving His forgiveness.  David’s own cries for mercy (Psalms 51) assure us that no matter our past, we can approach God with humility and sincere repentance.

Ephesians 1:7 and 2:8-10 reinforce this truth: salvation cannot be bought or earned.  It is a free gift from God, offered to us through the sacrifice of Jesus.  Many people try to secure favor with God by doing good works, giving money, or following religious routines.  Yet these verses make it clear that grace alone saves us.  Our role is simply to believe that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, our sins are wiped away, and that we don’t add anything to what He has already accomplished.

We also see that forgiveness is personal.  We can pray for others, but each person must respond to God’s invitation individually.  II Thessalonians 2:13 teaches that God has chosen us for salvation, and our part is to accept it by faith.  We cannot rely on family tradition, church membership, or someone else’s prayers to save us.  Instead, each of us must personally admit our need for Jesus, trusting Him to cleans and renew us.

The decision to follow Christ is the most important choice we will ever make.  II Timothy 4:1 reminds us that Jesus is both Savior and Judge.  One day, everyone will stand before Him.  Psalms 50:4 echoes this call, declaring that God gathers people from every corner of the earth for judgment.  As believers, we’ve already tasted the joy of forgiveness.  But distractions and worries can dull our appreciation of God’s goodness.  When we remember the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and the reality of eternity, we regain our excitement and sense of purpose.

May these verses inspire us to pursue God wholeheartedly.  No amount of effort can secure what Jesus has already given us, and no one else can decide for us.  Let us stand firm in faith, pray for those who have yet to believe, and remember daily the wonderful gift of God’s grace.

J. Arnette

The Struggle Inside (Romans 7:14-25)         August 10, 2025

We’ve all experience moments when we failed to live up to God’s standard, let alone our own standards – when what we want to do, we don’t do, and what we promise we’ll never do again, we fall right back into.  The apostle Paul perfectly captures this dilemma in Romans 7: “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do – this I keep on doing.” (Vs 19)

Our passage shows the war that rages inside every believer.  Though we are justified by faith in Christ, we continue to wrestle with sin.  Paul isn’t describing someone who is spiritually careless; he’s describing someone who is deeply aware of sin’s grip and deeply grieved by it.  This isn’t a failure of purpose, it’s a battle of nature.  He speaks of two laws at work: one of his mind that delights in God, and one in his body that wages war against that desire.  Galatians 5:17 reiterates this: For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want.”  The result is inner conflict, frustration, and dependence on something more than ourselves.

But there’s hope.  Paul ends with a declaration” “Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! (Vs 25)  The victory doesn’t lie in willpower or guilt but in dependence on Christ.  This passage reminds us that sanctification is a journey – not a flip of the switch.  The tension we feel, the frustration in our failures, is actually a sign of spiritual understanding.

And the deliverance isn’t only future-tense, but also present.  Christ delivers us today, meeting us in our brokenness and offering not just forgiveness but transformation.  The gospel does not promise the absence of struggle – it promises the presence of a Savior through it.  The Israelites still had to walk through the parted sea.  Daniel still had to go into the Lion’s den; David still had to walk on the battlefield.  But God was there each time.

So if you’re discouraged by habits you can’t break, or overwhelmed by guilt that won’t seem to lift – take heart.  You’re not alone.  The struggle means Satan is fighting for you.  But God is stronger, and He can and will deliver you from it.

Ask yourself this when you get a moment.  What struggle or sin do I find most frustrating, and how does my reliance on my own self keep me from real victory?

By Jared Boser (Adapted)

Throwing Stones                                                August 3, 2025

Sir Winston Churchill is supposed to have said, “You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.”

We will face countless distractions in life.  It can be difficult to stay on task and stay focused.  It is especially challenging when the disturbances come from the people around us.

When someone “barks” at us, it is tough to show proper restraint and to keep from “barking” back at them.  Sure, there will be a dog or two every now and then that must be dealt with in a bold and forthright manner, but more often than that, our strength will be seen in the self-control that we display.

If we want to be the best versions of ourselves – if we want to be the people our God has created us to be – we will display self-control and just let the “dogs” keep right on barking until they wear themselves out!

Churchill’s remark points us to a couple of Biblical concepts.  On the one hand, we should respond to “barking” with words of grace and truth spoken in love.  We should seek to overcome evil with good.

“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.  If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.  Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’  To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:17-21).

On the other hand, we must be honest with ourselves about our own sins and shortcomings.

The scribes and Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery.  Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women.  So what do you say?’  This they said to test Him, that they might have some charge to bring against Him.  Jesus bent down and wrote with His finger on the ground.  And as they continued to ask Him, He stood up and said to them, ‘Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.’  And once more He bent down and wrote on the ground” (John 8:3-8).

When the barking starts, what will we do?  Drop everything and bark back?  If so, we will never get where we want to go.

When the barking starts, will we immediately start searching for stones to throw, or will we start searching our hearts for ways to grow and reasons to repent?         

By Bart Warren

Accepting “No” For An Answer                               July 27, 2025

Nobody likes to hear the word “No.”  One of the first words our children learn is “No.”  Yet, in our prayer life, we always expect an affirmative answer from God.  However, sometimes God also tells us “No.”

We have at least three Biblical occasions when God’s answer was “No.”

In II Samuel 11 and 12, David, one was described as “a man after God’s own heart” committed a multitude of sins against Uriah and was chastened by Nathan the prophet.  In II Samuel 12:16-19 it is recorded that the baby became deathly ill and that David “pleaded” with God on behalf of his son.  This continued for 7 days, but on the 7th day, the baby died.  God’s answer to David was “No.”

In II Corinthians 12, Paul describes “a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan” about which Paul “pleaded with the Lord three times that it would leave me” (II Corinthians 12:7-8).  God’s answer to Paul was “No.”

Our savior, Jesus Christ, prayed to God in the garden, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me” (Matthew 26:39).  Luke’s account says that Jesus “being in anguish, He prayed more fervently and His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground” (Luke 22:44).  God’s answer to His Son was “No.”

The fact that God answered all three of these requests with a “No” did not mean that He didn’t hear their prayers or that He didn’t love David, Paul, or Jesus.  It simply meant  that God’s will was different on each occasion.

So how did each man react?

David’s reaction was to wash, change his clothes, anoint himself and go to the Lord’s house and worship (II Samuel 12:20).

Paul’s reaction was to “gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that God’s power may reside in me” (II Corinthians 12:9).

Jesus said, “not My will but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

Each of these individuals demonstrate the proper response, even when God tells us “No.”

Too often we are tempted to display anger and act like children when we don’t get the answer we want.  Sometimes we say, “God didn’t hear my prayer” when the real answer is that God said “No.”

We pray for the recovery of loved ones who fall sick, we pray for the removal of obstacles before us, but sometimes the answer is “No.”

We always have a God who loves us, who showers us with grace, and who sacrificed His Son on our behalf.  May we develop the maturity to accept “No” to our prayers and may that answer not shake us from the foundation of our faith.                           

By Randy Shouse

Just a Member or Part of the Family?                                             July 20, 2025

The distinction between being a part of the church family and being just a member can be massive, especially at a church whose growing in many ways.  While both roles involve participation in worship and Bible studies, the depth of engagement and the sense of belonging can vary significantly.

Being part of the church family means more than just attending services; it involves a deep, committed relationship with the church and its members.  Family members are always there when they can be, participating and serving in every way possible.  This commitment reflects the Biblical principle of fellowship and mutual support seen in the New Testament.

Acts 2:42-47 provides a beautiful picture of the early church, where believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.  They shared everything they had, sold property and possessions to give to anyone in need, and met together daily.  Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, but encouraging one another.  These verses highlight the importance of regular, active participation in the church.

Family members engage with the sick, shut-ins, and other members, making every effort to attend and serve the Lord while also serving others.   This active involvement is a practical expression of the Biblical call to serve one another.  Galatians 5:13 says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free.  But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

I Peter 4:10 also emphasizes the importance of using one’s gifts to serve others: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”  Family members recognize their unique gifts and talents and use them to contribute to the church’s mission and vision.

On the other hand, being an occasional member typically involves attending worship services and Bible studies sporadically.  While this level of involvement can still be meaningful, it lacks the depth of connection and commitment seen in those who consider themselves part of the church family.  “Just a member” can miss out on the rich fellowship and support that comes from regular interaction with the family here at Owen Sound.  Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”  Regular engagement with the church family allows for spiritual growth and accountability, which can be harder to achieve when you’re simply here part time.

Being just a member can also mean showing up and doing the bare minimum, almost like checking a box.  The Bible warns us against this mind of lukewarm commitment.  Revelation 3:15-16 says, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot.  I wish you were either one or the other!  So, because you are lukewarm – neither hot nor cold – I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”  This verse is not just for churches, but for us too!  The elders see it, other saints know it, and God knows it too.

Being a part of the family that meets here in Owen Sound involves a deeper level of commitment, participation, and service compared to being just a member.  It reflects the Biblical principles of fellowship and active service while we as believers can experience the fullness of life with Jesus and with each other.

Are you just a member, or are you part of the family?                 Jared Boser (Adapted)

How Scripture Helps Us Persevere                               July 13, 2025

“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

When we are in need of wisdom and hope, we have the ability to turn to the stories God provides for us in the Bible.  Exodus 7-15 covers the ten plagues of Egypt and release of the Israelites.  We learn about their slavery starting with a Pharaoh rising up who did not know Joseph.

Through Moses in Exodus 9:16, God explains why He allowed this Pharaoh to rise up: “But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you My power and that My name night be proclaimed in all the earth.”

God’s display of His power, resulting in the deliverance of the Israelites, becomes a central story of endurance that the Israelites look back to for a renewed hope in God’s power.  Read Psalms 78, 105, 136; Deuteronomy 5:6; Joshua 24.  All of these passages mention the Exodus.  It is this event that God reminds His people of His presence.

We are forgetful people.  Like the Israelites, we need stories that ground us in God’s presence.

In the next verse of Romans 15, notice that perseverance is something that God “gives.”  It is not something we conjure up by our own strength.

“Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:5-6).

In Romans 14-15, Paul is imploring Christians to be patient with each other when they differ on matters of conscience (Romans 14:1-6).  When you bring diverse groups together like the Jews and Gentiles, there will certainly be differences.  Even today, we are all unique individuals in different stages of spiritual growth.  But God can give us the perseverance we need to be of the “same mind.”

So how does God give us this perseverance?  He gives us the example of Jesus: “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.  For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, ‘The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me” (Romans 15:2-3).

The “same mind” we are supposed to have is the mind of Jesus.  A mind that “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).  A mind that did not come to do His own will, but the will of the Father who sent Him (John 6:40).  May we all allow God to grant us this mind as we look back to the cross.

By the Hawks

Steadfast in the Faith July, 7 2025 

Surprisingly, many Christians do not understand the concept of “steadfastness.” The word “steadfast” means to be firmly fixed in place, immovable and not subject to change. In a religious sense, it means to remain firm in belief and doctrine. The bible encourages Christians to be steadfast in their faith and service to the Lord, not wavering, not wishy-washy, or lukewarm. Believers are not to be moved about by the latest religious trend. (Eph. 4:14) Christians must be steadfast and consistent in their worship and benevolence. The Christian must stand firm against the devil and his world, much like a man standing in hurricane-force winds. If the man is not anchored steadfastly the wind will carry him away. Christians must have their faith anchored in the hope which is in Christ lest they be swept away. (Heb. 2:1; 3:12; 6:19)

Are you steadfast in the faith? 

• We Must Possess a Steadfast Heart (Ps. 57:7) 
• We are Partakers with Christ if We Hold Steadfast (Heb. 3:14) 
• We Must Continue Steadfastly in Prayer (Rom. 12:12) 
• Continue Steadfastly in the Apostle’s Teaching (Acts 2:42) 
• We Must Resist the Devil, Steadfast in the Faith (1 Pet. 5:8-9) 
• Beware Lest We Fall from Our Steadfastness (2 Pet. 3:7) 
• Stand Grounded and Steadfast in the Hope of the Gospel (Col. 1:23)

Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. 
(1 Corinthians 15:58) 

Jay Launius – 2025 
Maud Church of Christ 
Maud, Texas

How To Stay Faithful                                         June 29, 2025

One of the great things I have been allowed to do the last several months is to teach our middle school and high school students on Sunday mornings.  Once the PEARLS exam was finished, I now work with the High School students.  Both groups are awesome, encouraging, and inspiring because of who they are.

We are going back and digging a little deeper in each lesson of the workbook we used to prepare for the PEARLS exam because of the richness of each lesson.  Last Sunday morning, we talked about the Serpent’s lie in Genesis 3 along with the many names and identifiers of Satan found throughout Scripture.

In that conversation, we talked about what we are up against in Satan and the world’s challenges.  I shared with them that my goal is to give them something they can leave with after each class and get them over the mountains they are facing.  That’s my goal now.  Having a strong foundation in Christ and a growing faith will not allow us to just coast through each and every day, but seeking to follow Jesus will allow our path to be bearable!

What are some ways to stay faithful?

1. Seek God’s Kingdom (Matthew 6:25-34).  We might say “pursue” all that God would have us to through our daily walk.  In doing so, we can understand the righteousness of our Lord.

2. Strive to remain sanctified (holy) (I Thessalonians 4:3).  Satan is seeking to drag us down in the ugliness and filth the world has to offer.

3. Give thanks! (I Thessalonians 5:16-18).  If we can have an attitude of gratitude, we will be too busy to complain.  May we maintain the perspective of remembering all the blessings we have in Christ.

4. We know that knowledge is “power” (Colossians 1:9-12).  God’s Word equips us with power to battle Satan and fill our mind with Christ!

5. Embrace security (Ephesians 5:15-21).  Understanding the Will of the Lord shields us from the whims of Satan.  May we use our time wisely!

No doubt that many of us are tired of being pursued by Satan (I Peter 5:8) and fighting through the “winds” of each day.  If we will seek to look to Christ for rest, we will find it.  Matthew 11:28-30 directs us to the words of Jesus.  We may feel weighted down, but Jesus says, “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

No matter where you find yourself today, God is calling you to remain faithful through Scriptures and obey the Good News.  Building our faith is not about perfection, but perseverance.  II Thessalonians 3:3 teaches us that having a strong relationship with our Lord will allow us to be not only protected from the storms of life, but a promise to keep us safe from evil to get us home one day.  This passage says, But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.”  Let’s stay faithful!             

By Allen Jones (Adapted)