Message from Pastor Leo

September 15, 2009

The Apostle Peter wrote, “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2, NKJV). The Apostle Paul commended Christians at Thessalonica, “Your faith grows exceedingly” (2 Thessalonians 1:3, NKJV). Is this your experience? Are you full of joy because you are filled with Christ? Salvation is certainly not something to be endured—it is something to be enjoyed! And you will enjoy it only as you discover God’s will—His purpose and plan for your life by faith and prayer.

It’s like trying to tune into a station on the radio and receiving only static, sometimes our efforts to commune with God fail to bring about a satisfying connection. Perhaps weeks or months can pass by where the Christian just doesn't feel like much progress is being made toward a greater understanding of God; or does not experience a deepening of a spirit of willingness to respond to God's leading. Every Christian struggles with these plateaus in their faith and there are time-tested disciplines that will ensure continued growth.

To grow in one's faith means to develop a closer, more intimate relationship with God. The Christian journey can be exciting and deeply satisfying. There are times, however, when the Christian's faith may stagnate and a sense of separation from God causes restlessness, doubt and apprehension! That’s why we must do the two things that are mentioned here in the Scriptures:

1. Desire a thirst for the Word of God. Why? Because without faith it is impossible to please God and the only way to increase faith is by the Word of God.

2. Prayer! Talking with God as Christ taught us in the Word of God. Prayer is the bedrock of a Christian's relationship with God. It is through prayer that one communicates with God on a personal level. Successful prayer does not depend on a particular tone of voice, elaborate phrasing, physical posture or setting. Rather, it is achieved simply through humble, honest sharing of thoughts and feelings with God. Daily prayer is an essential part of advancing a relationship with God. It is not at all uncommon for Christians to experience periods of drought in their prayer life, where words refuse to form and even if they do, there's no sense of depth to them, no feeling of connection. These are normal growing pains for the Christian and it is not something over which we need to get discouraged. The key is to continue to have quiet time set aside for prayer, even if it's used simply to sit still and quietly listen. Don't give up! Soon the dry spell will pass and prayer will once again become rich and rewarding.

Never forget: Someday all the problems and conflicts that rip our world apart will be over. For the Christian there is hope—because of Christ and His return. No matter what we face, no matter what sorrows or heartaches come our way, someday they will all be over because Christ will reign. Let the truth of Christ’s return fill you with joy, peace, thankfulness and hope every day. Whether we meet Him in death or when He comes again, all will be well because of His victory over sin and death and hell and Satan.

So, stay focused on The Word of God and Prayer and watch God do great and mighty things in your life.

May The Lord Jesus Christ Be Magnified!

Pastor Leo A. Giovinetti