MARCH – Strong Families, Strong Faith – Building Homes By God’s Blueprint
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE CALL TO RECONCILIATION
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
This powerful verse reminds us that forgiveness is not just a suggestion, but a command from our Savior. It tells us that the act of forgiving others is directly linked to receiving God’s forgiveness for our own shortcomings. When we extend grace and mercy to those who have hurt us, we mirror the heart of God and open ourselves up to His healing love.
Consider the parable of the Prodigal Son. In this story, a young man strays from home, making choices that result in pain and broken relationships. Yet, when he returns, his father welcomes him with open arms—despite the past mistakes and the deep wounds they caused. This parable beautifully illustrates that no matter how far we may have fallen or how much we may have hurt one another, reconciliation is always possible when forgiveness is embraced. The father’s willingness to restore his relationship with his son shows us that God’s love is boundless and ready to mend even the most fractured relationships.
Reflect on your own life and consider any relationship—perhaps with a family member, friend, or even someone in your community—that feels strained or distant. Ask yourself what small steps you might take to begin the process of healing. This might be as simple as initiating a conversation, offering a sincere apology, or taking time to truly listen and understand the other person’s perspective. Remember, reconciliation starts with one small act of kindness or a heartfelt word of forgiveness.
Imagine two shores separated by a wide river. On either side, people live their lives, each full of hope and potential. Reconciliation is like building a bridge across that river. This bridge does more than just connect two sides—it strengthens them, creating a channel for a free flow of love, understanding, and mutual support. Just as a sturdy bridge withstands storms and heavy loads, so too can a relationship fortified by forgiveness and reconciliation endure life’s challenges.
Prayer: Let’s take time in prayer to seek God’s help in mending the bonds that may have frayed or broken.
“Father, I ask for Your guidance as I seek reconciliation in my relationships. Help me to be courageous in mending fences and to reflect Your love in every conversation I have.”
As you pray, invite the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and strength, so that you may be a vessel of God’s grace, extending forgiveness and fostering healing wherever there is hurt.
May this devotion encourage you to step forward in faith, knowing that with God’s help, reconciliation is not only possible—it is a path to a richer, more loving life.
WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Lee Cronan- Flu and Pneumonia
Kim’s Sister Ann Surgery Monday
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ann Stanley
Beth – A Friend Of Amy Garners
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gayle Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim McClain’s Sister
Lamar Knight’s Family in CA Fires
Lillianna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Mrs. Franklin
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Richard Blount – Back Surgery
Robbie Edwards
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scarlett – Marynell’s Granddaughter
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher