Word of Life

Faith isn't something we inherit; it's something we choose. God doesn't save us because our parents followed Him, and He doesn't reject us because they didn't. Each heart stands alone before Him. Pastor Richard will remind you today that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. That means your story with God is personal, not passed down from your ancestry. No matter your family history, His invitation is open.

Imagine if every promise we made came with a reflection of who we truly are. When we say we'll do something, God calls us to follow through, because our word reflects His character. Today, Pastor Richard will remind you that scripture says, “Let your ‘yes' be yes and your ‘no' be no.” In a world full of broken promises, being a person of integrity shines brightly. When you keep your word, you reflect the One who always keeps His.

In the world we live in today, it's easy to look at others and think we have a better standing with God because of what we believe or how we live. But in today's message, Pastor Richard reminds us that we're not to look down on anyone, especially on those who haven't yet believed. The truth is, we've been grafted into God's promises by His grace alone. And that's not a reason for pride, but a reason to be thankful and give glory to God.

When we first come to God, there's a sense of curiosity and wonder as we discover who He is. But answering His call to go out and make disciples can feel daunting. That's why, in today's message, Pastor Richard reminds us that Christians aren't just followers of Christ… we're called to be ministers to those around us. Ministers in our jobs, in our homes, in our marriages, in our relationships, as we live in the world, we are called to be the salt of the earth.

Sometimes when we get too comfortable, we start to take God's blessings for granted… and before we know it, we begin to drift. But God doesn't want that for us, just like He didn't want it for the Israelites. Time and time again, He sent prophets to call them back, to remind them of His faithfulness. And in today's message, Pastor Richard encourages you to remember God's promises and never take His goodness for granted

We all have those days when we forget to do something… like taking the food out of the freezer before mom gets home, or finishing that chore we promised our spouse weeks ago. But sometimes, in the busyness of life, we forget something even more important: God's promises. And that's why, in today's message, Pastor Richard reminds us that Christians worship God not only because He deserves praise, but because He's worth it.

When you think about your life and the people you're closest to, who comes to mind? Maybe it's your friends, a loved one, or your spouse. Those kinds of relationships are rare, and that's what makes them special. That's the kind of relationship God wants with you. The Creator of the universe loves you so much that He wants to know you personally. And today, Pastor Richard invites you to come to Jesus and begin that relationship with Him.

Sometimes in life, we treat our relationship with God like something simmering on the back burner while we focus on everything else. But God doesn't want to be a side course in your life… He wants to be the main meal, the center of it all. He loves you so deeply that He sent His only Son to pay the price for your sin, just to be in a relationship with you. So today, Pastor Richard encourages you to make God the priority of your life.

When people hear things like ‘Jesus will return,' they often think, ‘It's been two thousand years… will He ever come back?' But the truth is, He will. God loves us so much that He's giving every moment of every day for people to receive His grace and turn back to Him. And today, Pastor Richard invites you to become part of God's family - because one day, Jesus will return. There will be no warning, only the fulfillment of His promise.

When we first come to God, there's a sense of curiosity and wonder as we discover who He is. But answering His call to go out and make disciples can feel daunting. That's why, in today's message, Pastor Richard reminds us that Christians aren't just followers of Christ… we're called to be ministers to those around us. Ministers in our jobs, in our homes, in our marriages, in our relationships, as we live in the world, we are called to be the salt of the earth.

Sometimes, one of our biggest weaknesses as humans is pride. We want to do things on our own, and when we succeed, we feel unstoppable. But too often, we bring that same mindset into our faith, as if there's something we could do to earn salvation. The truth is, there's nothing we can do because Jesus already did it all. So today, Pastor Richard encourages you to seek Jesus, because when you look for Him, He'll meet you where you are.

For the last two thousand years, we've been given the task to share the Gospel with the world. But with that Gospel, there's a promise, and it's that Jesus will return. And this isn't empty words or just encouragement; it's a guarantee that Jesus will come back for His family, and that we will join Him. The question is, what do we do now? Today, Pastor Richard encourages you to hold on to God's Word and to share it with all who will listen.

Sometimes, when we look around the world and see the chaos ensuing, we can forget that there's someone who's in control. Someone who will use every bad situation for His glory and make something good and beautiful out of it. That's why in today's message, Pastor Richard reminds you that in the middle of all that hopelessness the world spreads, the real hope is coming soon, and His name is Jesus Christ.

When we look at God, it's easy to forget that He doesn't owe us anything. He created us in this world that we have messed up, and yet we often expect so much from Him. But that's what's amazing about God. He doesn't look at us the same way we look at Him. He looks at us with longing and a desire to be with us; that's why He sent His Son to save us. Today, Pastor Richard reminds us that Jesus will return for us and restore His creation.

There comes a point in every life when we have to make a choice: will we accept what Christ has given us, or keep living our own way? The temptation to see ourselves as good people is real. We say things like, ‘I've never killed anyone,' or ‘I serve my community.' But Scripture says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” That's why people need Jesus. And today, Pastor Richard invites you to make the choice that leads to life.

In our walk with God, it can be frustrating when we ask for something and His answer is no. In those moments, it's easy to look for distractions or fall back into old habits to ease the pain. But in today's message, Pastor Richard urges you to stand firm in the face of hardship because going back to sin is like a dog returning to its vomit. It only makes you sicker. And as you walk with Christ, remember that sin is never the answer; faith and obedience are.

Sometimes, one of our biggest weaknesses as humans is pride. We want to do things on our own, and when we succeed, we feel unstoppable. But too often, we bring that same mindset into our faith, as if there's something we could do to earn salvation. The truth is, there's nothing we can do because Jesus already did it all. So today, Pastor Richard encourages you to seek Jesus, because when you look for Him, He'll meet you where you are.

When you look at the world and see the evil around you, does it ever leave you feeling worried? At times, it's hard not to feel anxious about the state of things. But just because sin runs rampant doesn't mean good is absent. Time and again, God has restored good from evil. Even back in the Garden of Eden, He promised a Redeemer. And in Jesus, that promise was fulfilled. Today, Pastor Richard encourages you: place your faith in Christ.

Sometimes the ground has to crumble out from under us before we realize how bad things are. We can just be cruising along, thinking that everything's sunshine and rainbows, when it really isn't. Sometimes, the only thing able to get our attention is a devastating storm. Pastor Richard warns you in today's message not to wait until everything's falling apart to hear God's Word. God wants to speak to you, so that you might know Him and escape His wrath.

There are some people who, when they behave poorly, no one is surprised. Then there are certain people who, it shocks the whole world when their sins become known. In today's message, Pastor Richard shares with you about how Ezekiel was called to tell God's Chosen people that their sins were about to be judged. Can you imagine being there for that? Can you think of what the response might be from those who thought that they had a free pass with God?

A lot of the time, we go through life looking for opportunities that will suit our own interests. The career we choose, the spouse we marry, the neighborhood we live in… These are all good things that we should choose carefully, but isn't there more to life than just pleasing ourselves? In today's message, Pastor Richard urges you, as a Christian, not to think of your life as not being your own, but belonging to Christ. After all, He paid for it with His life.

 Have you ever felt out of place? Maybe you were somewhere that was a little uncomfortable. But do you truly think that anything happens without a reason? There's always a reason and a purpose for the places you might find yourself in. In today's teaching, Pastor Richard wants you to consider the places you find yourself and the people you encounter as an opportunity to share the love of Jesus; To be a light.

If you've ever traveled to a foreign country, then you might know what it's like to deal with a language barrier. It can be difficult to try and communicate with people who don't speak the same language as you. But what is truly frustrating is when someone who does understand your language isn't getting it. In his message today, Pastor Richard encourages you to stand strong in your witness of Jesus, even when no one seems to be listening.

When you look at the world and see the evil around you, does it ever leave you feeling worried? At times, it's hard not to feel anxious about the state of things. But just because sin runs rampant doesn't mean good is absent. Time and again, God has restored good from evil. Even back in the Garden of Eden, He promised a Redeemer. And in Jesus, that promise was fulfilled. Today, Pastor Richard encourages you: place your faith in Christ.

If someone asked you what the most popular Bible verse is, what would you say? Most people would say John 3:16. But there's something in this verse that many overlook: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Today, Pastor Richard reminds you of this truth: God's promise is not for a few, not just for those already chosen, but for all who believe in Him will have eternal life.

We all have to admit that life can get a little rocky at times. Things don't always go as planned, and no, it doesn't always get better. Sometimes life is just plain rough, but does that mean there's no hope? Pastor Richard wants you to remember today that God is still seated on the throne of heaven. God hasn't gone anywhere. He still promises you eternal life through faith in His Son, Jesus. Isn't that the greatest hope ever?

Take a second and picture what angels might look like… Maybe they look just like you and me, except wearing a white robe, sitting on a cloud, and playing a harp…. Or maybe they're cute, chubby little babies with wings… Do you think that's right? If so, then why did the Biblical prophets always associate angels with fear? Today, Pastor Richard wants you to know that heaven is a real place filled with awesome creatures surrounding the throne of God!

There are some people who just seem happy and chipper all the time. It seems like those types of folks could be going through the toughest day and nothing phases them. Are these people even human? Pastor Richard lets you know in today's message that, despite appearances, everyone could use a little encouragement from time to time. When you feel down, take that as a reminder that you need to draw your strength from God.

The days we live in are full of different echo chambers to suit any belief we want to reinforce. It's so easy to bury our heads in the sand when someone comes along disrupting our own personal worldviews. Pastor Richard shares with you in today's message that either you can believe the lie, or you can accept the truth - even if it's uncomfortable. Which would you rather do? I think it's better to face the truth now than to wait until it's too late.

You know those spikes that you sometimes have to drive over when entering a parking lot? Those are there to keep people from going out the wrong way. Once you get over them, there's no going back. In his message today, Pastor Richard wants you to realize that when this life is over, there are no second chances. Now is the time to repent and get your life right with God. Turn to God and experience His love and forgiveness today.

If someone asked you what the most popular Bible verse is, what would you say? Most people would say John 3:16. But there's something in this verse that many overlook: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Today, Pastor Richard reminds you of this truth: God's promise is not for a few, not just for those already chosen, but for all who believe in Him will have eternal life.

Have you ever had one of those days when nothing seems to go right? It feels like everything that could go wrong actually does. And in the middle of a storm like that, you wonder, “Will it ever end?” When the road ahead is unclear, life can feel very dark. But today, Pastor Richard reminds you of this truth: you are a child of God. And when you invite Him into your life, Jesus will be with you through every difficult moment and see you through the other side.

When looking at the Biblical prophets, we most often want to relate to Moses, who was a great deliverer, or Elijah, who never tasted death. But how many of us dream of being like Jeremiah, the weeping prophet? How many of us would like to go through all that God had called him to? In today's message, Pastor Richard invites you to join the prophet Jeremiah in weeping for those things he saw that break the heart of God.

Imagine being uprooted, living as a stranger in a foreign land, your home and safe haven gone. Today, Pastor Richard reflects on the exile of God's people. They were captives, their nation conquered, their worship disrupted. Yet, even in that despair, God's promises held firm. You might feel like you're in your own exile, wondering if hope remains. God's promises endure, even when everything familiar crumbles. You're still His, held by His word.

Ever feel like life's hardships are a sign of God's anger? Pastor Richard explores today how God's discipline isn't about destruction. It's not about judgment or condemnation, especially for those in Christ. The cross already settled that score; Jesus' blood paid it all. Yet God may chasten you, not to harm but to shape you for good works. Nobody enjoys discipline, especially when it stings, but it's a pathway to something better.

Ever wonder how God can work through imperfect people? Pastor Richard shares a powerful insight today, drawing from the Babylonians. They were used by God to fulfill His purposes, yet their ungodly actions weren't excused. It's a reminder that God can use anyone, even in their flaws, to accomplish His plans. You might be a vessel for His work, but being used by God doesn't give a free pass to live without righteousness.

Have you ever wondered why God's people face scattering or hardship across the world? As Pastor Richard reveals today, Scripture shows Israel's dispersion, yet God promises to bring them back in the latter days. You see His plans unfold for all peoples, unstoppably woven into prophecy. God's purposes for the earth and its nations are certain. Are you trusting God's unstoppable plans for the world and your place in them?

Have you ever had one of those days when nothing seems to go right? It feels like everything that could go wrong actually does. And in the middle of a storm like that, you wonder, “Will it ever end?” When the road ahead is unclear, life can feel very dark. But today, Pastor Richard reminds you of this truth: you are a child of God. And when you invite Him into your life, Jesus will be with you through every difficult moment and see you through the other side.

As we walk through life with Jesus, we can sometimes forget the blessings we already have while chasing after what we want. When we become so focused on our own desires and needs, we may overlook the many gifts God has given us. That's why, in today's message, Pastor Richard encourages us to stay rooted in the Word of God and always remember that, although God doesn't grant us everything we ask for, He will always provide what we truly need.

God's work in your life can be like a gentle nudge to stir you from stillness. Today, Pastor Richard describes how the visual of tipping jars in Scripture shows God shaking things up. You might settle into comfort, risking a stagnant or unfruitful life. He might send moments or people to push you forward. This keeps you from growing slothful or sour. His actions aren't random; they're purposeful for your spiritual growth.

Have you ever felt that someone was being patient with you despite your missteps? Pastor Richard reveals today how God's mercy towards you isn't approval of disobedience. You might think He overlooks your thoughts or actions because He doesn't care. But His patience, despite your sin, reflects His deep love for you. He can guide you to repentance, offering forgiveness to set your heart right. You're not meant to stay in sin but to receive His grace. 

Sin's impact is like a wildfire, spreading ruin through every part of your life. Today, Pastor Richard unveils how sin's destructive consequences go further than just being God's judgment. You see it wreck relationships, harm physical health, and tear families apart. The lifestyle of sin and selfishness breeds corruption, hurting those God loves, including you. It's not just punishment; it's the chaos sin naturally creates. 

Have you ever had one of those moments when you knew you were doing something wrong? Sometimes, as we navigate through life with Jesus, we are tempted to do something we know we have no business doing, and at times, we even try to justify it. But today, Pastor Richard urges you to stay strong in your walk with Christ. Stay strong in the Word of God and allow Jesus to help guide you through every situation.

Sometimes, when we've been walking in our sin for too long, we forget that we don't have to wear these shackles. And when we give our lives to Christ, we still willingly put them back on and hope for the best, even though our breaker of chains is right in front of us. That's why in today's message, Pastor Richard urges you to come to Jesus and allow Him to free you of any bondage that holds you back. Don't stay in your chains; Let Jesus break you free.

As we walk through life with Jesus, we can sometimes forget the blessings we already have while chasing after what we want. When we become so focused on our own desires and needs, we may overlook the many gifts God has given us. That's why, in today's message, Pastor Richard encourages us to stay rooted in the Word of God and always remember that, although God doesn't grant us everything we ask for, He will always provide what we truly need.

Our weaknesses can expose the fault lines of self-reliance, reminding us how quickly confidence crumbles under pressure. And in today's message, Pastor Richard will help you discover that those very cracks become conduits for Christ's strength. As you confess sin, His grace fortifies resolve and endurance far beyond natural capacity. Your failures can transform into testimonies, proving that God's power shines brightest through surrender to His perfect plan.

When we turn on the news and see the destruction and global chaos that is happening, we sometimes forget that God is working. While political leaders play chicken with one another, Jesus is making His presence known to people who need a savior. That's why, in today's message, Pastor Richard doesn't want you to be discouraged by the state of the world, but rather to be encouraged by the number of people coming to know Jesus Christ.

Have you ever turned on the TV and thought, “Wow… I can't believe they allow this.” This world lets hate speech and corruption run freely… and many even agree with it. But this isn't new. The Bible foretold a time when hearts would grow so wicked that people could no longer see the truth already given to them. Today, Pastor Richard warns you: this world will only grow harder for believers… now is the time to stand strong in the Word of God.

Sometimes, in our walk with God, we can get caught up in the world. At times, we may find ourselves living with one foot in the world and the other with Jesus. And when we do pick up the Word of God, it's often only to find things that we approve of. This should not be how we walk with God. Today, Pastor Richard encourages you to change your desires… to walk fully with Christ and allow His will to transform your life.

Do you remember when Jesus told the rich man to sell all his possessions and follow Him? That story leaves many people confused, and it even saddened the man Jesus was speaking to… but it shows exactly what Jesus is after. He doesn't care about your land, your money, or your possessions. He cares about your heart and what it truly desires. Today, Pastor Richard reminds you that nothing in your heart should be cherished more than Jesus.

One of the first things people notice in the Bible is God's promises… promises to bless and protect us and keep us from harm. But too often, people cling to prosperity preaching and forget that God doesn't call us to live however we please. That's why today, Pastor Richard reminds us: God gave us His Word to guide our steps. It keeps us from what pulls us away from God and assures us that He will always be there to lead us.