Setting Holiday Boundaries

Posted on by pastordarryl68

The holidays can be a challenging time when it comes to family dynamics. Many people feel pressure to grant unlimited access to their time, their energy, and even their homes—all in the name of family. The expectation to be constantly available, to attend every gathering, and to cater to every family member’s wishes, which can often become overwhelming. However, the truth is, people should never have influence on or access to you, your marriage, or your children simply because they are family. Access to me and my children is based on character, not just on blood relations. Just because someone shares our DNA does not mean they automatically earn the right to our innermost spaces, especially if their behavior undermines our peace, values, or well-being.

We tolerate things from family that we would never tolerate from anyone else—and that should not be. Blood is not a fast pass for bad behavior. Too often, we justify the hurtful actions of family members simply because they are related to us, but that mindset can lead to ongoing emotional damage and perpetuate unhealthy patterns. Respect, consideration, and healthy boundaries are just as important in family relationships as they are in any other aspect of life. In fact, setting boundaries with family can be even more critical because of the deep emotional ties involved. By setting these boundaries, we communicate our worth and the importance of maintaining a respectful and loving environment.

Boundaries not only honor Yahweh and protect you, but they also serve as a tool He uses as a first step toward salvation for the other person. When we establish clear limits, we give others an opportunity to reflect on their actions and behaviors. By setting boundaries, we allow God to work in ways that can bring about transformation. Sometimes, people need to feel the natural consequences of their actions in order to change, and boundaries can be the means by which those lessons are learned. It is not about punishment, but rather about fostering growth and encouraging healthier interactions. When we can’t trace His hand, we have to trust His will. Even when it feels difficult or counterintuitive, trusting that God is using these boundaries for a greater purpose can provide the strength needed to maintain them.

Boundaries are often painful, and that’s a good thing. Pain can be a sign of growth and necessary change. Yahweh is not as concerned with our outer comfort as He is with our inner salvation. He often uses discomfort to rescue a person’s soul. The temporary pain of setting a boundary can lead to long-term healing and healthier relationships. It’s important to remember that discomfort does not mean something is wrong; it often means something is being refined. Learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries can be uncomfortable, especially when those boundaries are with family members, but that discomfort is part of the process God uses to draw us closer to Him. By leaning into that discomfort, we allow God to refine our character and deepen our reliance on Him.

Setting boundaries may lead to pushback or even estrangement, but that does not mean you are doing something wrong. Family members who are used to having unchecked access to your life may not understand or accept your boundaries initially. They may react with anger, guilt-tripping, or attempts to manipulate you into reverting to old patterns. It is during these times that it is crucial to stay grounded in your values and remember why the boundaries were necessary in the first place. It is not your responsibility to make everyone happy; your responsibility is to honor God, protect your well-being, and create a healthy environment for yourself and your loved ones. Remember, even Jesus had boundaries—He took time away from the crowds to pray, He chose His close circle of disciples carefully, and He did not always meet others’ expectations of Him.

This holiday season, let’s be intentional about the relationships we nurture and the boundaries we set. Let’s prioritize the well-being of our families—not based on guilt or social expectations, but based on character, love, and the guidance of Yahweh. In doing so, we not only protect our hearts but also create opportunities for genuine growth and transformation, both for ourselves and for those around us. When we set boundaries, we are choosing to foster relationships that are built on mutual respect, love, and understanding rather than obligation and resentment.

Let’s also be mindful that setting boundaries is not about building walls to keep people out, but rather about creating healthy guidelines that allow relationships to thrive. Boundaries create the space for relationships to flourish in a way that honors both parties. When we clearly communicate our needs and expectations, we give others the opportunity to meet those needs and to respect those expectations. This can lead to deeper, more authentic connections. It may take time, and it may require repeated conversations, but the result is worth the effort. Healthy boundaries are an expression of love—not only for ourselves but also for those we are in relationship with.

As we navigate family gatherings, let us also remember the importance of self-care. Setting boundaries is one aspect of caring for ourselves, but it also involves recognizing our limits, giving ourselves permission to rest, and seeking support when needed. The holiday season often brings a whirlwind of activities, and it is easy to become depleted if we are not careful. By prioritizing self-care, we ensure that we have the emotional and physical energy to engage meaningfully with others. This means sometimes saying “no” to an event or request, even if it disappoints someone else. It means recognizing that your worth is not tied to how much you can give or how much you can do for others, but rather in who you are as a beloved child of God.

In conclusion, setting boundaries during the holidays is an act of love, courage, and faith. It is about creating an environment where you, your marriage, and your children can flourish. It is about honoring Yahweh by valuing the gifts He has given you—your time, your energy, and your relationships. It is about trusting that even when it is hard, God is using these moments to bring about something greater, both in your life and in the lives of those around you. This holiday season, let us walk in faith, setting boundaries that reflect our values and trusting that God will use them for His glory and our good.

Faith in Action: Is Voting a Christian Responsibility?

Posted on by pastordarryl68

“As a citizen of the Kingdom of God, I worship a King and Savior who actively reigns from His throne of heaven. He is sovereign and is in constant care for and has absolute rule over all HIS creation, for HIS glory and the good of HIS people. As a citizen of a constitutional republic whose government is of the people, by the people, and for the people, I MUST vote. I can not/will not vote for one of the candidates whose platform is being built on everything that God hates. I do not want to vote for the other candidate – one whose personality and behaviors exemplify everything that God hates. It seriously pains me to do so. Both are broken people for whom I pray every time I hear their names mentioned. I am only one, but I will not throw my vote away for a third party or write-in that has no chance of even entering the race with the other two. For more than 12 years, I have expressed my grief that in a country of 340 million people, these are our only options. I will vote for the policies that can best stem the tide of evil in our nation. That is a clear and straightforward choice. Not an easy one. My faith is not in the one for whom I cast a vote, but a vote I must cast. We the people are the authority that God has established in this nation and I must render unto God the things that are God’s. My faith is in the God of the Universe, the promises and precepts of His Word, and the expression of my trust is to live in obedience to and uphold His commands.” – Darryl Jones

Faith and Voting: A Reflection on Christian Civic Engagement

These words encapsulate the profound tension that many believers experience when engaging in the electoral process: How do we reconcile our ultimate loyalty to the Kingdom of God with our responsibilities as citizens of an earthly nation? How do we cast a vote when the options before us fall so far short of the ideals we hold as followers of Christ?

The dual citizenship that Christians hold—as members of God’s eternal Kingdom and as citizens of a constitutional republic—presents a unique and ongoing challenge. This tension is not new; it has confronted believers across history. While our primary allegiance is to our King who reigns from heaven, we are simultaneously called to engage meaningfully with the world around us. We are tasked with being salt and light of the Earth, and this includes participating in civic duties such as voting, advocating for justice, and contributing to the common good.

Distinguishing Personal Faith from Political Action

A crucial aspect of Christian civic engagement is understanding the distinction between personal faith and political action. While our spiritual beliefs form the foundation of our identity and worldview, political action is the means by which we apply those beliefs within the broader social and civic context. Personal faith is an intimate relationship with God that shapes our morals, values, and daily decisions. Political action, on the other hand, is the broader expression of those values within society.

It is essential to recognize that political engagement is not synonymous with spiritual faithfulness. Rather, it is one of the many ways we live out the principles of our faith. Spiritual beliefs guide our decisions regarding which policies to support and which candidates align most closely with biblical values of justice, compassion, and righteousness. Yet political outcomes can not and should not be the ultimate measure of our faith. Our loyalty is to God, whose sovereignty transcends all earthly systems. We are called to be faithful witnesses, trusting in God’s providence while taking responsibility for the influence we wield in the political realm.

Navigating a Flawed Political Landscape

One of the most challenging truths we must accept is that no political party or candidate can perfectly embody the values of the Kingdom of God. Human governance, by nature, is deeply flawed and marked by imperfection. The doctrine of human depravity reminds us that all individuals are inherently broken, including those who seek public office. This reality makes voting a process of choosing between imperfect options, requiring discernment about which policies align most closely with biblical principles.

Politics inevitably involves compromise. When we approach the voting booth, we are not choosing between an ideal good and a clear evil but making complex decisions in a fallen world. This process necessitates humility, wisdom, and a clear understanding of our priorities as followers of Christ. We must evaluate candidates and platforms based on their policies and their alignment with the teachings of Scripture, recognizing that none will fully measure up to our ideals.

The conviction that we must vote, even when neither candidate fully embodies Christian values, reflects a nuanced understanding of both our civic duty and spiritual responsibility. Scripture instructs us to pray for our leaders and seek the welfare of the place where we live (Jeremiah 29:7; 1 Timothy 2:1-2). Voting, though fraught with compromise, is one way in which we contribute to the welfare of our community. It provides an opportunity to influence societal direction in alignment with God’s justice, even if the choices are far from ideal.

The Role of Intercessory Prayer in Civic Life

Prayer is foundational to Christian civic engagement. We should pray for candidates whenever we hear their names. This practice serves as a reminder that our hope does not rest in human leaders or political outcomes but in the sovereign God who reigns over all. Intercessory prayer helps reorient our perspective, reminding us that God is in control, even when political circumstances are uncertain or disheartening. By praying for those in authority, we acknowledge that they, like us, are in need of God’s wisdom, guidance, and grace.

Prayer also allows us to approach the voting process with humility and trust. It guards us against cynicism and despair, helping us maintain our focus on God’s ultimate authority. In an era of deep political polarization, prayer enables us to engage with others—both those we agree with and those we do not—in a manner that reflects Christ’s love and grace. Prayer transforms our civic engagement from a purely political exercise into an act of worship, one in which we entrust our decisions and their outcomes to God.

Moreover, prayer reminds us that our identity is not defined by political affiliations or national loyalties but by our citizenship in God’s Kingdom. It is easy to become embittered or disillusioned by the political climate, but prayer calls us back to the truth that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ. Our engagement in politics must flow from this allegiance, grounded in the hope and assurance that God’s purposes will ultimately prevail.

Voting as an Expression of Stewardship

Casting a vote for policies that help stem the tide of evil underscores an important aspect of Christian involvement in politics: stewardship. As citizens of a constitutional republic, we have the privilege of participating in governance. To abstain from voting or cast a vote without practical impact can be seen as neglecting this responsibility. Stewardship in this context means using our influence to advance policies that protect the vulnerable, promote justice, and uphold moral values that reflect God’s character.

Christian civic engagement is not about endorsing a candidate as a savior; it is about exercising the influence we have in a fallen world. Voting is an act of stewardship—a recognition that while we cannot achieve perfection in our political choices, we can work toward a more just and righteous society. This perspective encourages us to remain engaged, even when the process is filled with compromise and complexity.

Stewardship extends beyond voting itself. It involves an ongoing commitment to advocate for justice, serve our communities, and hold our leaders accountable. Voting is just one aspect of our broader responsibility to be agents of change. It is an opportunity to contribute to the common good, but it must be paired with a willingness to act in other ways that embody the love and justice of Christ.

Specific Examples of Faith and Civic Engagement

Consider the example of William Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Wilberforce was a committed Christian who used his political career as a platform for advancing God’s justice. He dedicated his life to the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, driven by the conviction that his faith compelled him to fight against such a grave violation of human dignity. Wilberforce’s advocacy was rooted in his understanding that all people are made in the image of God, and his political work was an expression of his personal faith. Despite his flaws, which included a tendency towards self-doubt and an ongoing struggle with poor health, William Wilberforce’s persistence and dedication led to the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire, demonstrating how personal faith can drive meaningful political change. Wilberforce’s moral campaigns sometimes came across as imposing his views on others rather than embodying grace, which garnered criticism. Additionally, his gradual approach to emancipation could be critiqued as lacking the urgency that true Christian compassion might demand, reflecting the complexities and imperfections in his advocacy. His challenges remind us that even those who are deeply committed to their faith can struggle personally, yet still make significant contributions to society.

Similarly, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States offers a powerful example of faith informing civic action. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a Baptist minister, drew deeply from his Christian faith in his pursuit of racial justice. King was known to struggle with periods of depression, and he faced significant ethical scrutiny over allegations of infidelity. Additionally, his association with socialist ideas brought further criticism from those who viewed his stance as controversial or outside mainstream American values. Despite his imperfections, King’s leadership in nonviolent protests, grounded in the teachings of Jesus, played a pivotal role in challenging and transforming unjust laws and practices. His life exemplifies how spiritual convictions can and should inform civic engagement, particularly in the face of systemic injustice.

Maintaining Our Focus on God’s Sovereignty

In a political climate that often leaves us disillusioned, it is crucial to remember that our faith is not in any candidate or party. Our hope rests in the God of the universe, whose sovereignty transcends all human systems. We do not vote because we believe any candidate can fully embody the righteousness of God’s Kingdom; rather, we vote because we trust that God can work through even flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes.

As citizens of both the Kingdom of God and this earthly nation, we must engage in the political process without losing sight of our ultimate allegiance. Our calling is to live in obedience to God’s commands, to love our neighbors, and to seek His justice and righteousness in every aspect of life—including our role as voters. Our engagement in politics should be marked by humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the values of God’s Kingdom.

It is also important to recognize that our political engagement is ultimately an act of faith. We are called to trust that God is at work, even in the midst of imperfect systems and broken leaders. This trust does not absolve us of the responsibility to act, but it does remind us that the outcomes are in God’s hands. Our role is to be faithful, to do what we can with what we have been given, and to trust God with the rest.

Final Reflections on Faithful Civic Engagement

The act of voting is inherently complex, particularly when it feels as though we are choosing between two deeply flawed candidates. Yet it is a choice we are called to make. Our participation in the political process is an expression of our faithfulness—not in human leaders, but in God’s overarching sovereignty. As we navigate these decisions, let us be guided by our allegiance to the King of Kings. May our votes be cast with discernment, humility, and a deep trust in God’s providence.

Ultimately, Christian civic engagement is about embodying the values of the Kingdom of God in every sphere of life. While our choices may be imperfect, our responsibility is clear: to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). As we cast our votes, let us do so with a heart of prayer, a spirit of stewardship, and a firm reliance on the God who reigns over all.

Our engagement does not end at the ballot box.

Embodying the Christian Ethos: Love God, Love Others, Make Disciples

Posted on by pastordarryl68

Love Yahweh—with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Love others—including, but not limited to, your family. Make disciples—including, but not limited to, your family.

This foundational triad forms the core of the Christian ethos, encapsulating the essence of discipleship and faithful living. Though seemingly straightforward, the challenge lies in the consistent enactment of these principles. These directives are at the heart of our faith, defining what it means to genuinely follow Christ. However, in the busyness of modern life, the simplicity of these profound mandates is often overshadowed, and our commitment to them frequently falters.

Love Yahweh: At its core, this command speaks to an all-encompassing devotion to God. It is not merely about emotional affection but about an integrated commitment involving heart, soul, mind, and strength. This type of love necessitates prioritizing God above all else, making Him the focal point of our lives. Yet, despite its importance, our devotion can easily become secondary amid the relentless demands of daily life. Our love for God calls us to rise above the distractions and obligations of daily life, making Him the center of everything we do.

Love Others: Flowing directly from our love for God is the imperative to love others. This is not a passive or selective love—it is active, encompassing all individuals, regardless of convenience or personal comfort. Jesus makes it explicit that true love for others extends beyond our immediate circles; it requires kindness, grace, and the pursuit of others’ well-being, even when inconvenient. Genuine love must manifest not only in words but also in concrete actions. This love calls us to rise above convenience, extending kindness and grace to all—even those whom we find difficult or unfamiliar. By loving others as Christ loves us, we embody the active, inclusive love that Jesus demonstrated.

Make Disciples: The task of making disciples is not confined to clergy or those with formal theological training. It is an essential component of every believer’s journey. Discipleship involves guiding others in their spiritual growth, nurturing their relationship with God, and embodying Christ’s teachings. This mandate is both inward and outward—it encompasses our families and extends to our communities, colleagues, and even strangers. However, many shy away from this responsibility, whether out of fear of judgment, discomfort, or simply the distractions of personal pursuits. Authentic discipleship requires intentionality and courage—qualities that are sometimes eclipsed by our own insecurities or complacency.

These three commands—loving God, loving others, and making disciples—though elegantly simple, are deeply transformative when practiced with consistency. The difficulty lies not in understanding these directives, but in integrating them into the fabric of our everyday lives. True discipleship requires us to make these values the core of our identity and our actions.

Concluding Reflection

The call to love God, love others, and make disciples is deceptively simple, yet it demands intentionality, consistency, and a deep commitment. These are not tasks to be performed in isolation but are integral elements of a faithful Christian life. Let us endeavor to embody this calling each day, recognizing that it is through these seemingly simple acts of love and discipleship that we truly reflect the heart of God to the world around us. In doing so, we participate in a transformative process—both for ourselves and for those we encounter—anchoring our lives in God’s love and sharing that love with others.

The Centrality of Jesus in Our Conversations

Posted on by pastordarryl68

I wonder if the watching world is as shocked as I am that Jesus is such an insignificant subject in many professing Christians’ conversations about themselves—their thoughts, actions, behaviors, and the details of their lives (myself included). It’s unsettling to consider how often we go about our days without mentioning the One who should be at the center of everything. How often do we miss opportunities to bring Him into our discussions, even in the mundane parts of life? Whether it’s at work, with family, or among friends, Jesus often seems absent from the dialogue.

Now, that’s not to say that we don’t often hear the Bible and God referenced when Christians discuss their opinions and judgments about the actions and behaviors of others. Or that some don’t wax eloquent with their interpretations of various biblical scenarios and theological matters. But how often is Jesus truly at the center of our everyday conversations—our hourly thoughts and actions? It seems that for many of us, Jesus is brought up when it’s convenient, when it suits our arguments, or when we want to make a point about morality. But what about in our day-to-day, when we’re just sharing life with others? Are we talking about Him then? Are we reflecting His love in our words and attitudes, even when we aren’t explicitly mentioning His name?

He is the One to whom we have committed everything, the One to whom we owe our allegiance and loyalty. He is the One who sacrificed His life so that we might know Him, the One who created us with intentionality and purpose. His grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness are what make a restored and reconciled relationship with Him possible. Shouldn’t He, then, be the core of our words, the foundation of our daily reflections, and the center of every decision we make? If Jesus is truly our Savior and Lord, then His influence should permeate every aspect of our lives. Our conversations should reflect our relationship with Him, not in a forced or overly religious way, but naturally and authentically, flowing from a heart that is captivated by His love.

This is no easy task, but it is one worth striving for. We need to reflect on how we can make Jesus central to our daily conversations—not as an afterthought or merely a reference point for others, but as the true foundation of our own lives. This requires intentionality. It means making time to dwell on His Word, to talk to Him in prayer throughout the day, and to look for ways to bring Him into the conversations we have with others. It means letting go of the fear of what others might think and instead being bold in sharing how Jesus is working in our lives. When He becomes our priority, He naturally becomes a part of our conversations, whether we’re talking about our struggles, our successes, or the ordinary moments of our day.

Reflective Questions:

  • How often does Jesus come up in your everyday conversations? Are these mentions intentional or just occasional references?
  • Is He the focal point of your thoughts, or do other topics and worries take precedence over Him? What steps can you take to ensure He stays at the center?
  • How can you intentionally bring Jesus back to the center of your words, actions, and relationships? Are there specific moments in your day where you can consciously bring Him into focus?

Final Thought

Jesus is not just a figure to be discussed on Sundays or referenced when convenient. He is the One who gave everything for us, and He deserves to be central in our daily lives. Let’s strive to make Him the subject of our thoughts and the heart of our conversations, so that the watching world sees that He truly matters to us. Let’s make it our goal to ensure that our faith is not compartmentalized but rather integrated into every part of our lives. When Jesus is truly central, our words and actions will reflect His love, grace, and truth, allowing others to see Him clearly through us. The world is watching, and our lives can be a powerful testimony to the One who has given us everything.

Avoiding Burnout: Are You Serving God or Yourself?

Posted on by pastordarryl68

“I wonder if it’s a hard pill for our Creator to swallow when we tell Him that serving Him has worn us out, stressed us out, or even burned us out. Imagine standing before God and saying, “I’m doing too much for You.” It’s a sobering thought—one that I’ve wrestled with myself more times than I’d like to admit.

Every time I’ve reached the edge of burnout, or gone beyond it, I discovered a difficult truth: I wasn’t really serving God. I was serving myself. Even as a pastor, I could try to convince myself and others that I was sacrificing for God’s people. It might have sounded righteous to my ears, and maybe even fooled others, but when I lay down at night, I had to face the truth. I was wearing myself out, not for His glory, but for the idol of my own ego and the approval of others.” – Darryl Jones

Who Are We Really Living For?

It’s easy to say we’re living for God, but let’s take an honest look at how we spend our day. When I add up the time I spend scrolling through social media, binge-watching shows, or focusing on myself—whether that’s worrying about what others think, stressing, or trying to get ahead—it becomes clear that much of my day isn’t really for Him.

How much of our time is actually spent for God’s glory? Are we genuinely seeking His will, or are we more focused on making ourselves look good, feel good, or gaining other’s approval?

“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” — Galatians 1:10 (ESV)

A Gradual but Dangerous Shift

The shift from serving God to serving ourselves can start in small ways, but it’s dangerous. We start out wanting to glorify God, but somewhere along the way, our own desires creep in. We begin to measure our worth by what others think of us, the praise we receive, or the sacrifices we make. Suddenly, we’re no longer serving for God’s sake; we’re doing it because it makes us feel important or valued.

Burnout is often the warning sign that we’ve gotten off track. It’s the signal that, rather than relying on God’s strength, we’ve tried to do it all ourselves. Instead of resting in His sufficiency, we start striving in our own power.

Where Are Our Priorities?

Matthew 6:33 gives us a clear directive: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” But if we’re honest, how often do we seek first our comfort, our success, or our reputation?

Think about how much time we spend:

  • Scrolling and consuming—looking for distraction or validation.
  • Worrying and stressing—trying to control things that are beyond our grasp.
  • Investing in relationships—sometimes not for God’s glory, but so that others will like us or validate us.
  • Pursuing achievements—finding our identity and worth in what we do, rather than who we are in Christ.

It’s not that any of these activities are inherently wrong, but when they become the focus—when they overshadow our true purpose—they turn into idols.

Redirecting Our Focus

If we want to avoid burnout and truly live for God, we have to redirect our focus. We need to ask ourselves daily, “Am I doing this for God’s glory or for my own?” It’s not always easy to be honest with ourselves, but it’s necessary.

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)

Living for God means more than just doing things for Him—it means having a heart that’s oriented toward Him. It means choosing to seek His approval rather than the praise of others. It means learning to rest in Him, rather than striving in our own strength.

Final Thought

When we serve with a heart genuinely focused on God, there is peace, purpose, and joy—even in hard work. Let’s take the time to examine our hearts, our motives, and how we’re spending our days. Are we serving God, or are we serving ourselves? The answer may be a hard pill to swallow, but it’s the key to finding true fulfillment and avoiding burnout.

The Unbreakable Bond of Salvation in Christ

Posted on by pastordarryl68

You have probably heard people say, “I used to be a Christian.” They speak as though being a follower of Christ is something that can be undone. It’s a phrase that raises questions. It also offers an opportunity to clarify an important truth. When someone is genuinely transformed by the Holy Spirit, that transformation is permanent.

There’s no such thing as a “former Christian.” If you have truly been saved by Jesus and the Holy Spirit has entered your heart, there is no going back. It’s not just an emotional decision or a fleeting commitment. It’s a lifelong journey of transformation that begins the moment we accept Christ. This journey continues throughout our lives.

Jesus Himself assures us of this in John 10:27-28: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”

This passage speaks to the security we have in Christ. Once you’re in His hands, you belong to Him forever. It’s not something that depends on our strength or ability to stay faithful—it’s grounded in Christ’s power to keep us.

It’s easy to get confused when we see people who once appeared committed to the faith suddenly drift away or declare they are no longer Christians. Does this mean salvation can be lost? Not at all. 1 John 2:19 explains it clearly: “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.”

True salvation bears lasting fruit. While some may have experiences with the church or outward signs of faith, those who truly know Christ remain rooted in Him, even through difficult seasons.

One of the most powerful assurances we have as believers comes from Ephesians 4:30:
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”

The Holy Spirit’s work in our hearts is not temporary. When we are saved, we are sealed for eternity. This means that the transformation that takes place when we give our lives to Christ is something no one—not even ourselves—can undo.

Of course, the Christian walk is not without challenges. There will be times of doubt, struggle, and even moments where we may feel distant from God. But instead of these moments pushing us away from our faith, they often become opportunities for God to draw us closer to Him. Through trials and hardships, we grow, learn, and depend on Christ even more.

As Romans 8:38-39 beautifully reminds us: “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

There is no undoing the work of salvation once it has taken root in your heart. If you’ve been saved by Jesus, you are His forever. Let’s be encouraged by the truth that our salvation is secure in Christ, and no matter what, the Holy Spirit continues to work in us to bring us closer to the likeness of Christ.

The True Calling of a Pastor: Beyond Numbers

Posted on by pastordarryl68

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for church leaders to focus on numbers—how many attend services, how much engagement programs receive, or how popular a ministry appears. However, the true calling of pastors goes far beyond these metrics. We aren’t tasked with adapting to the trends of culture or tailoring our message to reach those who aren’t yet converted.

As John MacArthur reminds us: “We are called to serve the redeemed people of God as an agent of sanctification and protection.” The mission of spiritual leadership is to nurture and guide the congregation—the body of believers—so they can grow in their relationship with Christ. A pastor’s effectiveness isn’t based on crowd size but on the Christlike character being cultivated within the church.

The critical question becomes: Are we leading people into deeper holiness, truth, and love? Are we helping them embody the heart of Christ in their daily walk? While society may place value on outward success, God looks at the transformation happening within His people.

Pastors act as shepherds of spiritual growth, fostering sanctification in the lives of believers. This involves equipping them with the wisdom, faith, and resilience to navigate life’s challenges, standing firm in their identity in Christ.

“He gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” — Ephesians 4:11-13 (ESV)

Ultimately, the strength of a church is measured by the spiritual depth and fitness of its members, not by attendance figures. Our priority should always be to develop disciples who reflect Christ in all aspects of their lives, whether at home, work, or in their communities.

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” — 2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” — 2 Timothy 4:2 (ESV)

Let us commit to raising a congregation that lives out their faith boldly, growing more like Christ each day.

Self Entitlement

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Self-entitlement: when someone deems themselves entitled to treatment, privileges, rights, etc. not extended to others; when someone believes they are the exception to established procedures, rules, guidelines, etc. that provide for order within a community; when someone takes advantage of the kindness or generosity of others for their own advancement.

There are few things that fire me up more than when people profess to be followers of Jesus but behave with self-entitlement. That’s how the Pharisees behaved.

If following Jesus isn’t changing me daily, then I’m not following Jesus.

Luke 9:23 And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Don’t Surrender Your Children

Posted on by pastordarryl68

I’m so grateful for the godly men and women who teach and administrate in our public institutions, funded by our taxes. It is the greatest and most difficult mission field in the Western Hemisphere today. I pray the power of the Lord our God, KING of the Universe, Creator of our souls over each of them as they return to face a world of darkness, confusion, chaos, and deception in the agenda of the public education system.

Public education is one of the biggest gambling institutions in the US today. Children’s programming on media platforms is a close 2nd.

You’ve got a better chance of winning a million dollars at the slots today than you do of your children NOT being groomed for slavery to the enemy by the curriculum, teachers, actors, animations, and gaming to which parents enable and expose them.

PARENTS: I know homeschooling is not possible for everyone and this is not a condemnation of those who choose to utilize the public education system. BUT…whether you utilize the services of the public education system OR even a private, “christian” school — DO NOT SURRENDER YOUR CHILDREN to their schools and teachers. DO NOT SIT THEM UNATTENDED in front of any form of media.

God entrusts children to parents for a reason: parenting is a RESPONSIBILITY. Nurture, educate, instruct, model, correct, encourage, support, build up, hold them accountable, hold them responsible, advocate for them, stand up for them, protect them. This is all spelled out in scripture as the responsibility of the PARENT.

This was NEVER intended to be the responsibility of a teacher, administrator, actor, illustrator, or writer. Do not put that responsibility on already overwhelmed teachers and don’t enable the wolves that desire the hearts and minds of your children.

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. ~ Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Don’t Leave So Soon

Posted on by pastordarryl68

Am I really THAT strange? Don’t answer that too quickly!

When I’m in good company with people that I love (not talking about a crowd), like with my family, my church family or with good friends, I never wanna leave.

I often observe people that just can’t seem to wait to leave whatever environment they happen to find themselves. They seem to impatiently, always be ready to move on to the next environment and never find contentment and joy in just “being” in the current environment.

I’m not talking about making someone late for their next appt. I’m talking about the person who seems annoyed that their phone scrolling on the couch is delayed by a good conversation they’re not a part of. It’s annoying to have a good conversation interrupted by another who just can’t wait to leave.

Or maybe they just don’t find the company as enjoyable or lovable as I do. Or maybe it’s me that’s not enjoyable or lovable.

Live in harmony with one another. ~ Romans 12:16a