Have you ever felt like giving up? Have you ever thought: “Well, I have been
doing my part, I’ve worked, I’ve sweated, I’ve wasted my time and energy, I’ve
gone way beyond what was expected and nothing seems to work.” Maybe
you’ve been let go from your job and the bills are piling up so high you couldn’t
pole vault over them. Maybe you’ve been sick for so long you can’t remember
what it feels like to be energetic and healthy. Possibly you’ve have some deep
hurts that just won’t go away, even though you’ve forgiven and forgotten.

Perhaps you’ve done your best to be “right with God.” You’ve been faithful in
reading your Bible and spending time with Him. You’ve searched your soul
for something that may have separated you from His presence. And you are
honestly and sincerely certain that there is no un-confessed sin before God.
What do you do then? Do you quit? Do you crawl in a hole and cry? Do you
start throwing things at the cat? What do you do when you’re crying out for an
answer and no one seems to be listening? (Wow . . . that’s a lot of questions
you’re asking!)

I want to tell you something that I believe with all of my heart. God is in control
and we can trust Him. God cares. I care. Your friends care. The Lord knows
right where you’re at. You have never left His gaze. Please don’t give up.
Please stay steady in tough times. Please don’t make major decisions in times
of crisis. Stay the course. And for heaven’s sake, get in a small group! That’s
where you will be known and loved and cared for and encouraged and built up!!

Yes, times are tough for many. Now is the time for us to shine! Now is the time
for us to let go of our pride a bit and let others come along side and help us out.
I know you’ll make it! Keep looking to Jesus. Sing with me these famous words
in your heart today:

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!

Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home

When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’d first begun

Love you Guys . . .
Steve