BRINGING LIGHT INTO THE DARKNESS

August 27     Bringing Light Into the Darkness   Isaiah 41:10

***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.”  Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***

Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

There are so many opportunities to “Fear,” yet, God tells us, “Not to Fear!”  Yesterday, I overheard a conversation between two mothers, and they were expressing the “Fear” for the safety of their children, as they experience the “In-Person” learning at their local school.  Both, of these ladies, were genuinely concerned about the COVID-19 virus and its threat to their children and their families.  As I think about the implications of this virus and the seriousness of its effects and the lives lost and the issues that are evolving, I can only imagine what some are feeling, that are not followers of Jesus.  “Fear” is a debilitating factor, even for the Believer!  Sadly, many professing Believers are spending so much time, walking in the darkness and the shadows that exist, in this world.  Please, turn the “Light” of God on!  Light chases away the Darkness and we must be “People of the Light!”  Keep in mind, “fear” is a normal part of life, however, we are not to be consumed and controlled be the “Fear!”  God promises that He will, “Single-handedly,” take care of us… “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  COVID-19 is real, and the effects are real, and the deaths are real and the need to be aware and the need to be prudent in our behaviors is real and the recognition of our need to be diligent in our service and attitude is real!  Folks, just yesterday, several people that are close to me, have been quarantined because of this virus (plague) that exists.  PLEASE DO NOT FEAR; BUT RECOGNIZE THAT GOD HAS PROVIDED THE COMMON SENSE TO BE AWARE OF THE DANGERS OF THIS WORLD AND HAS PROVIDED THE OPPORTUNITY AND THE ABILITY TO AVOID THE CHALLENGE AND TO BE PRACTICAL IN OUR LIVING!  I had an experience, many years ago, with a group of “Believers” that practiced “Taking Up The Serpent,” as evidence of their faith.  Amazingly, there were many pictures of individuals, that were hanging on the walls and the question was asked, “Who are these People?”  The answer was shocking and, sadly, revealing!  “These are pictures of those who ‘Took Up The Serpent’ and then, lost their faith!”  Don’t tempt God…Use the Common Sense that He has Blessed You with! I do not fear the virus, nor am I going to succumb to Satan’s manipulation of this issue, in order, to challenge my witness for my Christ!  Recognize the dangers of Life; Avoid the pitfalls of the challenges, exercise your Faith in God, and claim the promises of God, and “DO NOT FEAR!” Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!