Value is Not Easy

Life often feels like a constant struggle. Sometimes, we find ourselves in places where we feel out of place, like hitting a rock with a sledgehammer. Yet, in certain spaces, like here, the atmosphere is filled with a genuine desire for God. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, and I commend you for it.

As we gather today, I want to take a moment to share some updates from Venezuela, a place that has been on my heart for nearly two decades. We are on the brink of witnessing a transition that we’ve prayed for, yet the road has been filled with devastation. The infrastructure of the nation is in ruins, and the people are facing unimaginable struggles.

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When I visited recently, I witnessed the dire conditions firsthand. There were soldiers guarding lines where people were scavenging through trash to find food. This reality can be sobering, reminding us of the stability we often take for granted. We must be grateful for the leadership that fights for us, ensuring we don’t fall into such chaos.

Feeding the Hungry

In the midst of the despair, there is hope. We decided to provide food after Sunday services. Workers collected food to feed not just their families, but also their neighbors. It’s incredible to see the community come together, feeding 500 people when they thought they only had enough for 100. Desperate people find hope in Jesus, and through these acts of kindness, many are coming to know Him.

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It’s essential to pray for Venezuela and support them in any way we can. The currency is nearly worthless, and they are in desperate need of aid. We have an opportunity to make a difference, and I encourage you to contribute if you can.

Prayers for Bolivia

Another nation that needs our prayers is Bolivia. They are following in Venezuela’s footsteps, and the situation is dire. Poverty stacked upon poverty leads to devastating consequences. We must intercede for them, as well, as they are just a few years away from experiencing the same struggles Venezuela faces today.

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It’s heartwarming to see how you all welcomed our friend, Ogle, during her visit. In Latin culture, inviting one person often means inviting the whole family! Thank you for showing her hospitality. It’s a beautiful reflection of the love and community we share.

Understanding Our Value

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, we must understand the value of what we have. The news often highlights turmoil, but we, as believers, should remain hopeful. God is not panicking; He knows what’s happening. We are on the winning team, and our faith must reflect that certainty.

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Let’s turn to the book of Jude. In verse 3, we are reminded to earnestly contend for the faith. This isn’t just a suggestion; it is a military command. We need to take our faith seriously, understanding that it is a battle worth fighting.

In verse 5, Jude reminds us of the importance of remembering our past. We need to reflect on our journey and the faith that has brought us to this point. Sometimes we forget the struggles we’ve faced and the victories we’ve achieved. It’s crucial to have a record of our experiences to strengthen our faith.

The Hard Path to Value

As I reflect on the past year, I realized that anything of value is not easy to obtain. Gold mining, treasure hunting, and even our faith require hard work. We often look for the easy way out, but true value comes from perseverance and dedication. We have to chase after God with the same fervor.

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Our faith should not be limited to what we can see or understand. It should stretch beyond the temporal into the eternal. We must learn to trust God for the bigger picture, even when things are tough.

Faith That Transforms

Faith is not merely about believing in God; it’s about having a deep-rooted assurance that He will deliver on His promises. This kind of faith allows us to see beyond our current circumstances and trust in God’s plan. Just like the early saints, we must contend for a faith that endures trials and tribulations.

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When we look at the life of Abraham, we see someone who had faith that surpassed the temporal. He was looking for a city whose builder and maker is God. This is the kind of faith we are called to emulate. It’s about focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary struggles we face.

The Power of Surrender

Surrender is another crucial aspect of our faith journey. We live in a world that craves instant gratification, often forgetting that true fulfillment comes from laying down our desires at God’s feet. It’s about letting go of control and allowing God to lead us where He wants us to go.

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God desires our surrender so that He can use us in ways we never imagined. When we hold tightly to our plans, we miss out on the incredible things He has in store for us. It’s a challenge, but it’s a necessary step in our spiritual growth.

Divine Order and Judgment

As we navigate through life, we must recognize the systems at play. There are worldly systems that seek to distract us from God’s purpose. However, God has a divine order that we need to align with. His judgment isn’t meant for destruction but for redemption and alignment with His will.

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In our personal lives and in the church, we must evaluate whether we are operating under God’s system or the world’s. It’s vital to understand that if we want to see change, we must be willing to surrender to God’s ways.

Conclusion: The Call to Action

As we reflect on these truths, I encourage you to ask God what areas in your life need surrender. What is He calling you to let go of so that you can fully embrace His plan? We are at the brink of something great, and God is inviting us to step into it. Let’s commit to contending for our faith, surrendering our desires, and aligning with His divine order.

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May we carry this message forward, knowing that the value we seek is often found on the hard path, and that anything worth having requires effort. Let’s support each other as we pursue this journey together.