In case you haven’t noticed, we are living in very turbulent times. It seems no matter where you go someone is discussing, debating, and even down about the times we live in. The world we live in is filled with challenges, conflicts, devastation, and war. Jesus spoke about the beginning of the end of time in Matthew 24:7-8 when he said: “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.” No matter what your personal theology is there is no doubt that what Jesus described parallels the times we are living in today!
It is during times of uncertainty that many feel apprehensive, aggressive, and awful. It is during times like now that we truly find out more about ourselves than we often would like to know. How can we be certain in a culture and world of uncertainty? How can we have peace in a world that seems to be filled with so much conflict? For some, they will operate simply by a political basis for hope. For others, they will look for hope in religion. Many may look for support in groups of commonality to find comfort. I suppose the real question may be where will you look for stability in times of uncertainty? I personally look to God and His word.
For the next three weeks at South Side we are going to talk about three things that win no matter what the circumstances we are given. We will unpack a new sermon series entitled “FHL” which stands for faith, hope, and love. I believe with all my heart the answer for peace in these times begins with “faith.” In 1 Corinthians 13:13 the Apostle Paul revealed, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” In this context of what matters, and what remains Paul lets us know where we should place out focus. He begins with the word “faith.” Faith comes from the Greek word “pistis” which is always a gift from God, and never something that can be produced alone by people. In short, biblical faith for any believer is “God’s divine persuasion” – and therefore distinct from just a human belief (confidence), yet involving it.
In these times of uncertainty we need something that is certain. We need to begin with “faith.” We must divinely be persuaded that God is still on the throne, and that God is in control in spite of how “out of control” things may appear. Faith makes us a “thermostat” instead of a “thermometer.” We impact the conditions of this world instead of the conditions of this world impacting us! We change our environment instead of our environment changing us. Do you have supernatural faith? Do you want it? If so, ask God who generously gives without finding fault. Put your confidence in Him no matter what is happening in you, around you, or even to you! This Sunday at South Side we will further unpack what it means to have biblical “faith.” Be sure to come out for our 8:30 worship time, or our 10:45 worship time that is offered for your choosing. Also, be sure to come early and enjoy a snack and coffee at Café Connect. Classes are offered for all ages of children, and we hope to see you Sunday! For more information on what we offer be sure to check out our new website at: www.southsidewch.com. God bless and have a “faith” filled day!
In Christ,
Barry Pettit
Lead Pastor
South Side Church of Christ
www.southsidewch.com
