Over the past month, the Lord has given our church a remarkable season of encouragement. We’ve watched individuals step forward in baptism, publicly declaring what Christ has done in their hearts (Romans 6:3–4). We affirmed our first deacon and alternate, added 45 more chairs that has continue to fill, and welcomed new guests, some hearing the gospel clearly for the first time
However, after serving in vocational ministry for almost a decade, one pattern seems to show up again and again: spiritual highs are almost always accompanied by spiritual lows. Individuals face it. Families face it. Ministries and churches face it. Yet, Scripture prepares us for this reality. In Acts, every major advance of the gospel is met with resistance.
• When the church grew in Jerusalem, persecution immediately followed (Acts 4:1–3; 5:17–18).
• When Stephen preached boldly, opposition rose violently (Acts 6:8–10; 7:57–58).
• When Paul and Barnabas saw revival in Antioch, hostility was stirred up against them (Acts 13:48–50).
• When the gospel took root in Philippi, Paul and Silas were beaten and jailed (Acts 16:19–24).
This pattern echoes Jesus’ words: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
First, guard your heart, remembering Paul’s instruction to “do everything without grumbling and arguing” (Philippians 2:14); in context, he teaches that a complaining spirit discourages our witness, so protect the unity Christ purchased.
Second, be alert in your home, taking seriously Peter’s warning to “be sober-minded, be alert” because the enemy seeks to exploit moments of spiritual movement (1 Peter 5:8); this means staying prayerful and watchful in our closest relationships.
Third, lean into one another, obeying Hebrews 3:13 to “encourage each other daily” so that none of us is slowly hardened by sin’s deception; we guard one another best through consistent fellowship and intentional care.
Finally, pursue personal growth, heeding Paul’s call to Timothy to “train yourself in godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7), knowing that the church is strengthened as each member grows in Christ.
As we continue forward together, may we steward this season with humility, trusting that the Lord will complete the good work He has begun among us. (Phil 1.6)
Pastor Jordan