Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers and father figures in our congregation. Today, we honor the vital role fathers play in shaping their children’s lives through unwavering faith and guidance. Let’s remember the legacy of faith passed down through generations, inspiring us to live with integrity and devotion. This enduring faith guides us daily and shapes our values. Just as fathers lead their families, Christ leads us to victory. Even in the face of profound tragedy, steadfast faith and trust in God’s plan encourage us to find peace in trusting Him.
Today is not about criticizing dads or highlighting their shortcomings; it’s a day to encourage fathers and help them find ways to mend past mistakes so everyone can heal and move forward. For some, celebrating Father’s Day is easy because they had wonderful dads, while for others, it’s painful due to difficult relationships or absent fathers. Regardless of where you fall, remember that you don’t have to suffer because of someone else’s failures; you can be a victor because of grace. Fathers have a profound influence on their children, serving as their first role model, and the Bible provides numerous examples of fatherhood, both good and bad. The greatest gifts a father can give are living a life of integrity, being emotionally available, prioritizing family and spiritual leadership, encouraging potential, and demonstrating unconditional love. By applying these biblical principles and practical steps, fathers can build stronger, healthier relationships with their children, creating a legacy of love and faithfulness that will endure for generations.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to the Men’s Choir Sing.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
In Colossians 2:19, we read, “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.”
This verse underscores the importance of staying connected to Christ, our Head, who is the source of spiritual nourishment and growth.
When we fail to hold fast to Christ, making Him our primary point of reference, our Christian life falters.
His work within us—our growth, sanctification, and transformation into His likeness—comes to a halt.
Without this connection, we find ourselves relying on our own understanding, feelings, and external circumstances rather than on Christ.
Biblical illustrations abound that highlight the necessity of holding fast to Christ.
For instance, in John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”
This vivid image emphasizes our dependence on Christ for spiritual vitality and fruitfulness.
Similarly, in Matthew 14:29-31, Peter walks on water toward Jesus but begins to sink when he looks at the wind and waves instead of keeping his eyes on Christ.
This story illustrates the consequences of shifting our focus away from Jesus.
Practically speaking, holding fast to Christ means making Him our point of reference in all aspects of life.
When facing challenges, we should turn to Him in prayer, seeking His guidance and strength rather than relying solely on our own reasoning or succumbing to feelings of discouragement.
For example, when tempted to sin, we can recall Hebrews 4:15-16, which tells us that Jesus understands our weaknesses and invites us to approach God’s throne of grace for help in our time of need.
Moreover, maintaining fellowship with Christ involves regular engagement with His Word.
Psalm 119:105 declares, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we allow Christ to shape our thoughts and actions, ensuring that He remains our guiding light.
Christ formed in us does not imply that we are perfect or finished products.
It means that we consistently turn to Him as our primary point of reference, giving Him first place in everything.
Acknowledging our limitations and Christ’s sufficiency allows us to handle sin, our reactions, and our circumstances with His wisdom and strength.
By keeping Christ at the center, we stay in fellowship with Him, enabling His transformative work in our lives to continue.
In summary, holding fast to Christ means continually making Him our reference point, relying on His strength and guidance rather than our own.
By doing so, we remain nourished and grow in our Christian walk, reflecting His image more and more each day.
Until Tomorrow
With A Shepherd’s Love,
Pastor Jackson
WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Sarah Parker – ICU Newton
Kathryn Raines
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
John McClain’s Mother
Amy Garner’s Mom & Dad
Coly/Connor – Allison’s G’sons
Dan Haines
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
George & Linda Alexander
James Burnette
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
Joe Shelnutt
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scott Lanier
Tom Witcher