Since 1983 on the third Monday of each month we have paused to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a servant of God who exemplified courage, humility, hope, patience, self-control, gentleness, kindness, goodness, and faith in the face of adversity. As many of you know, Dr. King’s pursuit of justice and equality was deeply rooted in his belief in God’s call for righteousness and love. He lived out Micah 6:8, walking humbly, seeking justice, and loving mercy.

Dr. King reminded us that faith without action is incomplete. His life’s work echoes James 2:26, “Faith without works is dead.” He put his faith into motion by advocating for civil rights, challenging systemic injustice, and encouraging nonviolent resistance. He showed the world that darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.

Today, as we reflect on his legacy, let us also reflect on our own role in carrying forward his mission. Are we being agents of peace in our communities? Are we standing boldly for truth and justice, even when it’s uncomfortable? Are we loving our neighbors as Christ commanded, regardless of their background or differences? Amos 5:24 says, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”

My brothers and sisters, “Martin Luther King’s dream continues to be lived out in the hearts of those that embraced his clarion call to love and not hate, to accept and not reject, and to build and not destroy!”

Pray with me:

Father God, we thank You for the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We are inspired by his faith, courage, and love for others. Help us to follow his Jesus led example by seeking justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with You. Give us the strength to stand for what is right and the wisdom to do so in love and peace. May we be wiling vessels of Your light in a world that so desperately needs it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“The time is always right to do what is right.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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#MLK2025

Life often brings challenges that make us feel like giving up—on our dreams, our prayers, and sometimes even on God. We wonder if He hears us, if He sees our struggles, or if our faith is in vain. But Scripture reminds us that perseverance in the face of adversity leads to a harvest in due season.

Galatians 6:9 encourages us to, “Not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Here’s the deal, God’s timing is not our timing. When we are tempted to lose hope, we must remember His faithfulness. Throughout the Bible, we see stories of people who held on to God’s promises despite incredible obstacles. Abraham waited for decades for the child God promised. Joseph endured betrayal and imprisonment before God’s plan unfolded. Even Jesus persevered through the ultimate suffering, trusting in the Father’s plan for redemption.

My brothers and sisters, when we face delays or disappointments, it’s easy to grow weary. But God’s promises are true, and His purposes for our lives will prevail if we remain steadfast. He is working behind the scenes, orchestrating everything for our good and His glory.

Pray with me:
Father God, thank You for reminding me not to give up. I confess that I sometimes grow weary and discouraged. Help me to trust Your timing and hold onto Your promises. Strengthen me when I feel weak, and guide me as I press on in faith. I believe You are faithful, and I trust You to complete the good work You’ve started in my life. In Jesus’ name we pray, believe, and praise. Amen, Amen, and Amen!

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#DontLoseHope

God never sends you into a situation alone. He goes before you, stands beside you, and walks behind you. Whatever you’re facing right now, trust and be confident: God is with you. He will never leave you or forsake you.

There are many passages in Scripture that affirm how close God is to us—closer than a brother. Deuteronomy 31:8 captures this truth perfectly: ‘The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.’

While this promise is undeniably true, life often brings challenges that make us feel alone or uncertain. Whether it’s a difficult decision, a painful loss, or an unfamiliar path, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, as believers, we hold onto an unshakable truth: God’s presence surrounds us in every way—geographically, spiritually, emotionally, situationally, circumstantially, and relationally

Remarkably, God goes before us, preparing the way. He stands beside us, providing strength and companionship. And He walks behind us, protecting and guiding us when we falter. His presence gives us the assurance that we are never abandoned.

That being said, this truth reminds us that we don’t have to rely solely on our own strength or understanding. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). Instead of being consumed by worry or fear, we’re encouraged to take everything to God in prayer. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

My brothers and sisters, Whatever you’re facing today—be it an unexpected trial or a new opportunity—remember that God is already there. He sees the end from the beginning and the beginning from the end, yet He still promises to never leave nor forsake you. His presence surrounds you, offering peace, strength, and hope in every step you take.

If this message is for you, I personally invite you to meditate on Deuteronomy 31:8, Proverbs 3:5, and Philippians 4:6-7. As you reflect, identify one specific worry or situation you’re facing. Surrender it to God, trusting that He is in control and will guide you through it. Let His peace guard your heart and mind today in Christ Jesus.

Pray with me:
Jehovah Shammah, thank You for Your constant presence in my life. Thank You for going before me, standing beside me, and walking behind me. Help me to trust You more deeply in every situation I face. Replace my fears with confidence and my doubt/worry with faith, knowing You are always with me. In Jesus’ name, I pray, believe, and praise, Amen and Amen and Amen!

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#YWHIsThere

Have you ever faced a moment when circumstances felt overwhelming, and it seemed like no solution was in sight? In times like these, Luke 1:37 offers hope. This verse comes from the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary about the miraculous birth of Jesus. He reminds her—and us—that God’s promises are never empty. If He has spoken, it will come to pass.

It’s critically important to remember that while God made us in His image (Genesis 1:27), He is not like us. Numbers 23:19 reminds us, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” Unlike humans, who may falter or fail to keep their word, God is completely trustworthy. His promises are not dependent on circumstances, emotions, or human limitations.

Undoubtedly, God’s Word is alive and active, sustaining us even when life feels uncertain. Consider Abraham, who waited decades for the promise of a son (Genesis 21:1-2), or the Israelites, who wandered for years before stepping into the Promised Land (Joshua 21:45). In both situations, God’s Word remained true. It wasn’t dependent on circumstances, timing, or human understanding.

My brothers and sisters, I pray this word of encouragement (“woe”) blesses someone today. If that’s you, I want you to hold on to this truth: God’s promises are ratified by His character. He is faithful, unchanging, and all-powerful. As Isaiah 55:11 declares, “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” You can always fully, boldly, completely, and competently trust God to fulfill what He has spoken over your life.

Pray with me:
Abba Father, thank You for Your Word, which never fails. Help me to always remember that You are faithful, trustworthy, dependable, and unchanging. In moments of doubt, strengthen my heart and remind me that Your promises are steadfast and true. Teach me to trust in Your perfect timing and to align my life with Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we faithfully pray, praise, and believe, Amen and Amen, and Amen!

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#WOE

Y’all know the epic story! If you don’t, I invite you to read 1 Samuel 17. When David faced Goliath with nothing but a sling and a stone, he stood firm (1 Corinthians 15:58) because he chose to fully, confidently, and completely believe in God’s power to deliver him. As David said to the nearly 10-foot giant in 1 Samuel 17:47, “The battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.”

Like David, when we fully, boldly, confidently, and completely trust God, we realize that the size of the challenge doesn’t matter—it’s the size of our faith that counts, even if it’s as small as a mustard seed.

I assure you, you can bet the farm that a rock in the hands of someone who fully, boldly, confidently, and completely trusts God can accomplish far more than a pagan Philistine giant wielding a 140-pound (5,600 shekels) sword ever could. I can only imagine how David’s trust in God transformed any initial fear that haunted him into courage, weakness into strength, and, ultimately, the impossible into a victory story

My brothers and sisters, don’t let the odds discourage you. Step onto the battlefield with confidence, knowing that when God is with you, you already have everything you need to overcome. It’s not about what’s in your hands; it’s about who’s in your heart. Take your “rock,” step forward, and let God handle the rest. Let this message serve as a reminder that no matter how unqualified or unprepared you feel, God equips those who trust in Him. All you need to do is take that first step of faith.

Pray with me:
Heavenly, loving, and Gracious Father God, when the challenges before me seem overwhelming, remind me that the battle is not mine, but Yours. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your power, not my abilities. Give me courage to step forward, even when my resources seem small, knowing You will use them for victory. Help me walk boldly in Your promise that You will fight for me and lead me to triumph. In Jesus’ name we pray, praise, and believe, Amen and Amen and Amen!

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#ALittleRockOfFaith

Undoubtedly, God’s way is always higher than our own. Trusting in His plan, even when we don’t understand, brings peace and purpose. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.

Secondly, God’s way is always better because it is rooted in His infinite wisdom, love, and sovereignty. While we often rely on our limited understanding, God sees the bigger picture and leads us toward what is truly best for us. His ways may not always make sense to us in the moment, but they are always good and purposeful.

My brothers and sisters, When we choose to surrender to His will, we experience His peace, even in uncertainty. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” God’s ways are not only better but are also the safest, most fulfilling paths we can walk.

At the end of the day-top of the morning, surrendering to God’s will truly opens the door that ushers in His peace, clarity, and strength, even when life feels odd, peculiar, and uncertain. Fully trusting in God’s way transforms our perspective, reminding us that His plans are far greater than we could ever imagine.

Pray with me:

Father God, we come before You, acknowledging that Your ways are far greater than ours. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, even when we don’t understand the path ahead. Grant us peace and patience as we lean into Your will, knowing that You work all things for our good and Your glory.

Holy Spirit, teach and help us to surrender our own desires and follow the way God has set before us. Strengthen our faith and guide our steps, Father God, so that we may walk in uncompromised obedience and unwavering confidence, trusting fully in Your wisdom (aka Your Way or YWH). In Jesus’ name, Amen, Amen, and Amen!

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#GodsWayIsBetter

No matter what challenges or trials we face, God’s love is constant and unconditional. His love doesn’t depend on who we are or what we’ve done—it flows freely because of who He is. The Bible reminds us in Romans 8:38-39 that nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. This means His love is with us in the highs and lows, in joy and sorrow, in certainty and fear.

When life feels overwhelming, and the weight of uncertainty presses down, His love is the anchor that keeps us steady. It is His light that shines the brightest in the darkest places, reminding us that we are never alone. Even in moments when we can’t see the way forward, His love is feverishly and fervently working behind the scenes—bringing hope, healing, reconciliation, recognition, and restoration.

So, no matter what you’re going through—whether it’s walking through a health journey, facing personal, judicial, vocational, relational, or financial struggles, or supporting others in need—know that God’s love surrounds you. It’s in every prayer lifted up, every tear cried, every comforting word spoken, and every small step forward.

You are loved, my brothers and sisters! Your family is loved. And God’s love will never fail. Always cling to that truth, and may it give you strength for today and hope for tomorrow.

Pray with me:

Father God, we come before You in awe of Your boundless love. Thank You for loving us so deeply and unconditionally, even when we fall short. Your love is greater than anything we could ever comprehend—steadfast, patient, and never failing.

Holy Spirit, remind us daily that nothing can separate us from Your love. Help us to feel the warmth of Your love in moments of doubt and difficulty, to trust that Your love will strengthen us when we feel weak, and to reflect Your love through our words and actions toward others.

Fill our hearts with Your Spirit so we may walk in love as You have called us to, sharing kindness, grace, mercy, and compassion. Let Your love overflow in us, changing us and those around us for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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#GodLovesYou

Every single person who has walked or is presently walking through the pages of life has fallen short of God’s perfect standard. Yes, we’ve all experienced the burden and weight of our failures. Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” No one is exempt. Yet, God, in His infinite love, doesn’t leave us burdened by the stain of our sins, iniquities, or transgressions. Whether these indiscretions are acts of commission or omission, He invites us to bring our sins and mistakes to Him, assuring us in 1 John 1:9 that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

The Bible reminds Our mistakes and failures are part of the human condition, but they do not have to define us. Through Jesus, God has made a way for redemption. His love and grace are far greater than our sins. When we confess our shortcomings, He is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us, washing away the stain of sin and restoring us to Himself.

Consider Peter, who after walking with Jesus for 3 1/2 years denied Him three times in His moment of greatest need. By human standards, Peter’s failure might seem unforgivable. Yet, Jesus forgave Peter and entrusted him with building His church. This shows us that God does not see us through the lens of our failures but through the lens of His matchless, limitless, and undeserving grace.

My brothers and sisters in Christ, let me remind each of you: we are not defined by what we’ve done wrong but by what He has done right. His love, grace, and mercy transcend all, transforming our mistakes into opportunities for growth and testimony, reminding us of His faithfulness.

Pray with me:
Father God, I thank You that Your grace is greater than my sin. I confess all of my sins, iniquities, and transgressions to You, trusting that You are faithful to forgive and cleanse me. Help me never to abuse Your matchless, limitless, and undeserving grace. Today, I choose to live in the freedom of Your love, defined not by my mistakes but by Your mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen, Amen, and Amen!

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#GraceLens

Our lives are often filled with challenges, confusion, and pain, making it easy to feel overwhelmed by darkness. Fear, anger, despair, and doubt can creep in, threatening to consume our hearts, spirits, and minds. But as followers of Christ, we are called to reject the darkness and embrace the light of Jesus. His light brings hope, peace, and clarity, shining brightly in the midst of adversity, heartache, and turmoil.

Jesus declares in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” This powerful truth reminds us that when we choose to walk with Him, His light becomes our guide, dispelling darkness and illuminating the path forward.

When the darkness feels heavy, turn to the Jehovah Ori (The Lord My Light), who is the source of all light. Pray, worship, and meditate on His Word. Let His presence fill the empty and hurting spaces in your life. As Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Through His Word, we find encouragement, wisdom, and the assurance that we are not alone.

Furthermore, not only does Jesus fill us with His light, but He also calls us to reflect that light to others. In Matthew 5:14-16, He says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

My brothers and sisters, as the new year approaches, don’t let the darkness of this world consume you. Instead, let the light of Jesus fill you today, so that His love, grace, mercy, and truth can shine through you, drawing others out of the shadows and into His marvelous light.”

Pray with me:
Jehovah Ori (The Lord My Light), in a world filled with darkness, help me to turn my eyes toward You, the true Light of the world. Fill my heart with Your presence, and guide my steps with Your truth. Holy Spirit, help me to reflect Your light to those around me, so they may see Your goodness and be drawn closer to You. Thank You for being the lamp to my feet and a light to my path. In Jesus’ light filling and fulfilling name, Amen and Amen and Amen!

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#LightofChrist

There are times when life feels overwhelming, and the path ahead seems uncertain. In these moments, it’s easy to doubt if we’re making progress or if the work God has started in us will ever be fulfilled. But the truth of Scripture reminds us that God never starts something He doesn’t intend to finish.

Paul Crystalized and cemented this truth in Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

God’s work in us isn’t dependent on our strength, our timing, or even our understanding. It is His work, and He is faithful even when we are faithless or feel useless. When we submit to His will, He uses every circumstance—the good, the hard, the difficult, and even the mundane—to shape us into the person He has called us to be, even before the foundations of creation.

My brothers and sisters, perhaps you feel like you’re in a season of waiting or wondering if you’ve missed your calling. But be strong and take heart: God’s timing is perfect. He is using every step of your journey to prepare you to accomplish the purpose He has set before you. Trust that His plans are for your good and His glory.

Today, reflect on the truth that God is not finished with you yet. Rest in the assurance that He is actively working in your life to accomplish something beautiful and meaningful. Even when you don’t see it, He is faithful to complete what He has begun.

Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, creator of heaven, earth, and all things visible and invisible, I know You will complete in me the work you have purposed to accomplish through me! I trust that You will carry it to completion in Your perfect timing. Help me to stay strong, firm, faithful, courageous, and patient, knowing that You are always at work, even when I don’t see it. Help me to understand that nothing in my life is wasted. Also, give me the strength to surrender my plans to Yours and to walk boldly, humbly, and confidently in the path You’ve set before me. In Jesus name, amen, amen, and amen!

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#InHimIWill