In Sunday’s sermon I shared some counsel for what to do when you’re afraid. I told you all then that I’d put it on my blog if you wanted the references. Here you go! 1. Realize the source of your fear. “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love … Continue reading What to Do When You’re Afraid
Author: Jacob Riggs
I'm a Pastor in Royal Oak, MI.
Dear Central Oaks (Part 10)
Today is the official beginning of a new season of life for many of us. I’m not sure when fall starts, but new routines begin on the Tuesday after Labor Day because that’s when everyone is back in school. Keep the Fortune’s, Walker’s, Riggs’, Wells’, Cox’s, Tehya, and Rose in your prayers as those individuals … Continue reading Dear Central Oaks (Part 10)
If You Get Vaccinated, Does That Mean You’re Living in Fear?
I know there is so much noise right now about the vaccines for COVID. I hope my blog today doesn’t add to the noise, but bring clarity for some. The reason I’m attempting to address this topic is because of conversations I’ve had with some of you about it. Writing about it provides me with … Continue reading If You Get Vaccinated, Does That Mean You’re Living in Fear?
What God is Doing When He Takes Things Away
Good day to you, fellow Central Oakie, and friends “listening” in. Before I share my thought for this week, let me thank you all for praying for me. More and more I’m seeing how much I need your prayers. These past few weeks, spiritual opposition has been stronger than I normally notice. Whenever I’ve reached … Continue reading What God is Doing When He Takes Things Away
Four Reasons I Think We Should Hire An Associate Pastor
Hey church family, I’m happy to be back in my study at the church building because the Lord has called us here and has sustained us every step of the way. Many of you have been a big part of that. But it’s not about me and my family—the Lord is the center of the … Continue reading Four Reasons I Think We Should Hire An Associate Pastor
Reflections on Younger People Sticking
Church family, today I want to share some reflections I have about younger people being part of Central Oaks and then give some practical suggestions. Before I begin, let me clarify that my post today is about younger people who are actually seeking God and a church, not the many who are wandering from God … Continue reading Reflections on Younger People Sticking
Dear Central Oaks (Part 9)
The last time I wrote a “Dear Central Oaks” letter was all the way back on May 5. My hope for you is unshaken. I am confident that the one who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. Vacation Bible School is … Continue reading Dear Central Oaks (Part 9)
Just What Is a Church Anyway?
Recently I overheard a conversation between two Christians about their church involvement since COVID. One mentioned how they hadn’t physically been to a church building since COVID but had been watching online. Another was talking about how they had changed churches. Evidently, at one time they really enjoyed being in the services of their previous … Continue reading Just What Is a Church Anyway?
Why Did Jesus Tell People Not to Tell About His Miracles?
Jesus often told people not to tell about His miracles. If you’d like an example, consider Mark 7:31-37, my text for Sunday. Sometimes people apparently obeyed him, and other times they obviously did not. The question is why? Today I offer a suggestion and an encouragement. A Suggestion I suspect the answer is multi-layered, but … Continue reading Why Did Jesus Tell People Not to Tell About His Miracles?
“The Reason They Did That Was . . .”
I want to encourage us to remove the words in the title of this blog post from our vocabulary. Instead, let’s replace it with, “I’m sure they meant the best from this.” We say things like the title of this post when we’ve been assuming the motives of others. For me, my flesh draws me … Continue reading “The Reason They Did That Was . . .”
