For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Ephesians 3:14-19

February, often associated with expressions of love due to Valentine’s Day is the perfect month to explore the inescapable love of God. Last month, we journeyed through a gospel message series inspired by Ephesians 3:14-19, uncovering the profound reasons why nothing can separate us from the love of God. At the core of our faith lies the immeasurable love of God. It is a great and incomparable love that reflecting upon it becomes not just a choice but a necessity. Without it, there’s a chance of losing sight of the finished work of Christ. Ephesians 3:14-19 encourages us to pause and absorb God’s love surrounding us. God’s love knows no boundaries of demographics or social status. It transcends cultural, racial, and economic divides. Hallelujah!

In exploring the breadth of God’s love, we recognize that His heart is for all people. It’s a
love that unites us as one, reminding us that in the eyes of God, we are all cherished and valued. The length of God’s love is displayed in His faithfulness. Despite our unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His people. This symbolic marriage between God and His often-unfaithful bride mirrors His enduring love, reminding us that His commitment goes beyond our shortcomings. The depth of God’s love is not distant; it descends into the pits of life where we may find ourselves. It goes beyond surface-level affection, reaching into the depths of our hearts and souls. In times of struggle, God’s love is a constant presence, ready to lift us from the depths and provide restoration. The height of God’s love elevates us above life’s challenges, offering a perspective rooted in hope. As we fix our gaze upon our risen Savior, Jesus Christ, we find strength to face the present and the future. This elevated divine perspective allows us to confidently navigate life’s complexities in the redeeming power of God’s love. As we advance forward and upward in March, may we have the same passion for Christ as he did for us; reflecting on Ephesians 3:14-19, we allow the inescapable love of God to shape our understanding of His character.

May we be grounded in the immeasurable, boundless, enduring, and uplifting love
that defines our new relationship with the Creator.

Because He lives,

Pastor Reggie Sheppard

He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.

1 Thessalonians 5:24

Late blog post warning. As we launch headfirst into the new year, the pace of life has quickened, leaving many of us breathless and struggling to keep up. Amid this whirlwind, we must pause, reflect, and consider how to set the stage for a victorious year ahead. Reflecting upon 1 Thessalonians 5:24, I’ve realized that sometimes, the greatest obstacle to our success can be our own selves. In this blog post, let’s explore some keys to starting right and maintaining a victorious momentum throughout the year.

First, it is essential to remember that regardless of how spiritually mature we may consider ourselves, approaching God with childlike faith is a profound simplicity. The innocence, trust, and belief that characterize a child’s prayer can be a powerful reminder of the humility and sincerity with which we should approach our Creator. In the hustle and bustle of life, taking a moment to reconnect with this childlike faith can help us find clarity, peace, and strength.

Second, in our busy lives, it’s easy to lose a sense of the rhythm that aligns with God’s heartbeat. Establishing a routine that prioritizes prayer, reflection on the word of God, and intentional time with God allows us to synchronize our lives with His divine plan. This intentional alignment sets the foundation for a year marked by purpose, fulfillment, and a deep connection with the One who orchestrates it all.

Additionally, the Holy Spirit is a dynamic force that empowers us to overcome obstacles and live a life of victory. To maintain momentum, we must be attuned to the promptings and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Seeking His wisdom in decision-making, relying on His strength in times of weakness, and allowing His life-changing power to work in our lives will propel us forward, even in the face of challenges.

Lastly, life is unpredictable, and storms will inevitably come our way. However, our response to these challenges defines our journey. Remaining resilient and flexible, anchored in our identity in Christ, enables us to navigate the storms without compromising our faith. In the face of adversity, we can stand firm, knowing that our foundation is secure in Him. As we navigate the fast-paced start of the year, let’s intentionally cultivate an atmosphere of victorious momentum. Embracing childlike faith, syncing our rhythm of life with God’s heartbeat, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, and staying resilient in Christ will position us to start the year right and finish well. May this be a year marked by spiritual growth, anchored in faith, and the victorious momentum that comes from walking hand in hand with our great God.

Because He lives,

Pastor Reggie Sheppard