Bulletin Thought

January 1, 2017

A Thought from Pastor Bryson,

But the just shall live by his faith.

(Habakkuk 2:4)

By the grace and mercy of God we have been blessed to see the beginning of a brand New Year. What this year will bring God only knows. But I do know that we are to continue the journey through life living and walking by faith. Our faith is not to be in man, government, or money – but in the living God who is all-knowing, all-wise, and, and present every day.

A new President takes office this year and many are fearful of what might happen under his administration given his views on certain issues and his temperament. Political unrest is prevalent in certain parts of the world, violent acts still dominates the headlines, and many are still struggling financially. Such is the state of this world we live in but the problems just mentioned are nothing new.

When the prophet Habakkuk wrote his book, uncertainty and violence was in abundance. God responded to his concerns by reminding him that the just shall by faith. As matter of fact, God basically told the the prophet that things would get worse before they got better (Habakkuk 2:5-11), but let us not forget that in spite of that, God told him, the just shall live by faith.

So it is to be with us as we enter 2017. We are to live by our faith in God and His Word. This means then that we must be students of Scripture for the Scriptures teach us about God and His amazing abilities and love for us. We must be a people of prayer for prayer keeps us in contact with God who is able. Living by faith in God and His Word will keep us focused and always filled with hope. Remember, Jesus said in this world we will have tribulations but be of good cheer, He has overcome the world (John 16:33). Also remember He is our living Savior who conquered sin, satan, and death and He is coming back.

Yes, we’ve entered a brand New Year and there is unchartered territory before us. Habakkuk listened to God and as a result of his walking by faith in the midst of a lot of uncertainties, he was able to live victoriously. If we in 2017 will adopt Habakkuk’s mindset, we too shall live victoriously in spite of.

Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls – Yet, I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength… (Habakkuk 3:17-19 NKV)

Let us live and walk by faith in 2017 and show the world how wonderful it is to trust in the living God.