GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
WHY AREN’T WE VOTING?
It’s hard to believe, but a large percentage of Christians don’t vote (estimated 32 million). We, who hold the truth of God’s Word, often remain silent when it comes to one of the most impactful ways we can influence our nation and our future. Every election, millions of believers choose not to exercise the right and responsibility that God has given us through the privilege of living in a free country. Romans 13:1 tells us that “there is no authority except that which God has established.” God has placed us in this nation for a reason, and with that comes the responsibility to be active participants in shaping its future. When we don’t vote, we’re essentially handing over the decision-making power to those who may not share our values or believe in the things we hold dear. As Christians, we are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16)—to influence the world around us for the glory of God. But how can we do that if we stay silent when it’s time to vote? By not voting, we are allowing others to make decisions that directly impact our families, our churches, and our nation’s future. This is why you must vote. The Bible speaks clearly about righteousness exalting a nation (Proverbs 14:34). Our voice at the polls is one of the most powerful tools we have to stand for God’s truth, protect biblical values, and ensure that our nation follows a path that honors Him. When we choose not to vote, we are allowing ungodly values to take root and spread throughout our society. Please, fellow believers, don’t sit this one out. If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference, this is it. Vote for leaders who will uphold justice, protect life, and defend religious freedom. Our nation needs believers who are willing to engage, to stand up for what’s right, and to take action. If we don’t vote, who will? If we don’t stand up for godly principles, who will? This election is an opportunity for the body of Christ to rise up and be heard. Don’t let this moment pass by. Let’s fulfill our calling and make sure that we, as Christians, are using our vote to reflect the values of our faith.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE GIFT OF GRACE
Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 paints a vivid picture of God’s grace.
After squandering his inheritance on reckless living, the prodigal son finds himself at rock bottom, hungry and destitute.
He decides to return to his father, expecting judgment and perhaps hoping to be accepted back as a servant.
Instead, his father, seeing him from afar, runs to embrace him.
No questions asked.
No condemnation.
The father welcomes him home, clothes him in fine garments, and throws a celebration.
This parable shows us that grace is not about what we deserve—it’s about God’s unconditional love and mercy.
Despite the son’s failures, his father’s grace was abundant and immediate.
This is the grace God extends to us—a lavish, unearned gift, no matter how far we’ve fallen.
God’s grace cannot be earned.
It’s a gift, freely given to us even when we least deserve it.
So often, we feel like we need to prove our worth or strive to earn God’s favor, but grace breaks through that mindset.
It’s not about what you can do; it’s about what Christ has already done.
No matter how far you’ve strayed or how unworthy you feel, God’s grace remains available.
His arms are always open, ready to embrace you just as the father embraced the prodigal.
Stop trying to earn what has already been freely given and rest in the assurance that God’s love and grace cover you.
Grace invites you to trust, rest, and live in freedom, knowing that you are fully accepted in Christ.
Grace is like a lavish feast prepared for you, even though you brought nothing to the table.
Imagine arriving at a grand banquet, but you have nothing to contribute.
Instead of turning you away, the host welcomes you with open arms, seats you at the table, and serves you the finest food.
This is God’s grace.
He doesn’t wait for you to clean up, earn your place, or bring anything of value.
He invites you to come as you are and receive the riches of His grace.
No matter what you lack, God’s grace is sufficient.
It fills the gaps, covers your shortcomings, and provides what you could never earn on your own.
Grace is not only the starting point of our salvation; it’s also what sustains us daily.
We often fall into the trap of believing that while grace got us into the kingdom, our efforts are what keep us there.
But grace is the foundation of the Christian life from start to finish.
We need grace every moment, not just for salvation but for our daily walk.
It’s grace that empowers us to overcome sin, grace that strengthens us in trials, and grace that keeps us growing in our faith.
Recognizing this frees us from the burden of performance.
We don’t have to live in constant fear of failing or not measuring up.
Instead, we can live in joy and gratitude, knowing that God’s grace will always meet us where we are.
PRAYER
“Lord, thank You for the gift of grace. I know I cannot earn it, but I receive it with a grateful heart. Help me to stop striving to prove myself and instead rest in Your love and acceptance. Let Your grace guide me each day and remind me that I am fully accepted in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
ASSIGNMENT
Take time to reflect on a moment in your life when you felt undeserving of God’s grace but received it nonetheless.
Consider how that experience changed your view of God’s love and mercy.
Spend time today thanking Him for the gift of grace.
Then, extend that grace to someone else—show kindness, forgiveness, or love to someone in your life who needs it.
Remember, just as you have freely received grace, you are called to freely give it to others.
FRIDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Danny Jarrard – SURGERY WENT WELL
David Newby
Amy Garner’s Mom
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Daniel Cooper’s Mother
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother in law
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
James Parker
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Matt Barron’s Mother
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sandra Graham’s Family
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher