Devotional - January 14, 2026

Scripture: Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

I know there are some out there who decided to read through their Bible this year.  If not, I know it is your intention.  I'm kidding..., but I hope that each of you has done so recently.  Reading it when you were young or many years in the past does not keep it fresh in your mind.  Whenever you do so, the first words you come across are the ones used for today's devotional.  One thing to bear in mind was how God began.  God works up a plan and purpose for creation in God's mind.  As we study science, we come to know the intricacies involved with creation, God's plan.  We learn how things fit and work together to maintain harmony throughout the creation, to the very ends of the cosmos.  Each part of creation, regardless of the size or effect, plays a part.  God creates this vision in God's mind and then begins to manifest it in physical form.  In the first creation narrative, God does so by speaking it through specific words.  We too speak things into creation.  Our words, and the intentions found therein, help create the world around us, for good or ill (Matthew 12:34).  They come from within, just like the amazing universe we live in is a manifestation, a reflection, of what is within God, minus the sin and violence (Romans 8: 20-23).  Unfortunately, that comes from us.  Yet, by allowing the Holy Spirit to continue to work in you, you can change things.  You can get this year off to a new start, a good start.  Just like turning a car, it takes effort and it occurs in degrees, but the turn gets made all the same.  The direction you are driving changes.  If you want this year to reflect some changes in your life, start turning.  Begin re-imagining those areas of your life using God's vision and support to do so.  And, enjoy!

Pray with me..., Holy God walk with us this year.  And when we start to walk away, bring us back.  Help us to understand the error of our ways.  Help us to be the blessing You call us to be.  Hear us as we pray for our loved ones.  We ask Your blessing upon them, as we ask Your blessing on our church.  Help us to be the people You call us to be in Jesus' name, Amen.     

God’s Peace,

Pastor Brian