Thursday, October 1, 2020

The Second Mile

God is All Powerful

If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Matthew 5:41

The verse is based on an old tradition where Roman soldiers required locals to carry their load one mile. Jews would carry the bags two miles as a way to show Rome the power and goodness of God.

When at work or in any situation, why not go the second mile? Think of the impact it will have on those around you. Leadership like this may not be immediately rewarded, but knowing you are making a difference one day or one task at a time has its rewards. Draw your strength from God, who ultimately controls all things and rewards us accordingly.

i>Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. I Chronicles 29:12

Because God is all powerful, in Christ we can be extraordinary.

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

I’m Tired, Are You?

God is All Powerful

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

Anyone tired? …tired physically, mentally, tired of waiting for circumstances to change… When life is tough, we can become so worn out that we are immobilized. Where do you turn? Modern medicine offers solutions; bad habits can keep us propped up for only so long.

Look up and lean on our eternal God. This is where you can be re-energized and restored. Exchange your ways for God’s ways. God’s promise for everlasting life through his son Jesus Christ offers peace and hope. It isn’t in the what and when of our circumstances, but rather in the who. Who is the focus of your life?

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

Because God is all powerful, we can rely on the Lord’s strength.

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Out of Control

God is All Powerful

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

We are taught to be in control -- to take control of our lives and our circumstances. Covid, lockdowns, rioting, unrest, and uncertainty in our economy do not align with dreams of an abundant life…. But what an eye opener when we understand who really is in control – an all powerful God who has the whole world in His hands! And with this revelation comes hope and a sense of freedom. We don’t have to fix everything. We can trust God, who is good and who has a plan for us.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

Because God is all powerful, we can trust that He is in control of all the circumstances in our life.

Saturday, August 15, 2020

Once Upon A Time

God Is Wisdom

My son, do not forget my teaching but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.
Proverbs 3:1-2


Remember hearing childhood stories about princesses and super heroes?….Oh, what it is like to be a small child wrapped up in the arms of a loving parent while listening to fairly tales with happy endings! … We all wish for happy endings especially when it comes to our children. We do everything to protect them, to teach them, to warn them about poor choices, dangerous situations,...but we all know they don’t always listen.

Our relationship with our Heavenly Father is much the same….His word provides instruction to protect us, but we too sometimes don’t listen. No matter what we have done, however, His arms are always wide open for our return. He longs to comfort us, forgive us for our sins, and to give us the wisdom and strength to avoid future persuasion. And, it is in this context with Him that we can live …happily ever after!

For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. Luke 15:24

Because God is wisdom, through Christ we can live a victorious life.

Saturday, August 1, 2020

Everyday Struggles

God is Faithful

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

Everyday newspapers and talk shows are full of stories of conflict, political battles, and struggles for social equality. And personally, we battle health issues, finances, relationships, poor choices…..

Some struggles are so enormous that we can’t face them alone. The Bible tells us that God never forsakes us. He is always with us in our struggles, providing strength for the next week, day or hour, and providing comfort, guidance, and rest when we think we can’t go on. God gave David the confidence to face a giant with only five smooth stones and a sling shot...and God the Father gave Jesus the strength to die on the cross for us and through His resurrection, declare victory over this world. Yes, everyday brings strife, but in Christ, we are given the strength to endure and the confidence in the outcome no matter what we face. By having faith in Jesus, we too are victorious over things of this world.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Because God is faithful, in Christ we find hope for whatever challenges we face.

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Keeping It Clean

God is Merciful

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.
Matthew 23:25


Covid19 is having us focus hard on keeping things clean on the outside, but Jesus would say don’t lose sight on what is found on the inside. It is true that Old Testament laws focused on cleanliness protected God’s people from many unknowns of that day. God continues to protect us from harm, but through Jesus, His law has now been written on our hearts. Focusing on Jesus will allow us to examine our hearts honestly, repent, and produce an outflow of goodness and mercy.

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23

Because God is merciful, through repentance, the blood of Jesus washes our hearts clean from all sin.

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Is Work an Idol?

God is Sovereign

No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. Matthew 6:24


Unfortunately, society lures us to get wrapped up in our title, the power of our position, the size of our paycheck…. Not only do we let our work define who we are as individuals, but work often becomes the source of satisfaction in our lives.

Giving up an identity defined by work seems counter-intuitive to culture, but with Christ as the center of our affections, we are able to see a much grander vision. We end up with balance in our lives and the ability to love our neighbors when we’d otherwise be consumed by work. God does not define us by what we do or what we own, but rather by whose we are. We are God’s children -- the sons and daughters of a King! When we grasp that concept, work should no longer have a stronghold on us. We no longer are a slave to performance, but are free to think differently about the true purpose for our lives.

for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:13

Because God is sovereign, we can find our true identity in Him.

Monday, June 15, 2020

Removing Impurities

God Is Holy

He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; ... Malachi 3:3

Let’s face it - No one likes to change their ways or habits, no matter how destructive they may be or how necessary. While the status quo is always easiest, deep down, we all admit there are some things we’d like to change about ourselves. Maybe it’s having more patience with a co-worker, or having a higher level of integrity at work; maybe it’s being more of a team player, or being more charitable….

The bible tells us that God is constantly at work refining our character. Just like the silversmith that removes impurities in metal over a blazing fire, God places us in hot spots to perfect our character. Daily, we can find ourselves in situations that challenge us to move in a new direction, to extend grace, forgiveness, or a helping hand when we would not otherwise. We have two choices – to stay on the same path or to be like Jesus in our thoughts and actions. But how many of us choose the latter? If we trust God and obey His word at times of testing, we will find that just like silver, imperfections in our character are removed allowing His reflection in our life to become real and visible to those around us.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8

Because God is holy, He continues to perfect our character through difficult circumstances.

Monday, June 1, 2020

The Greatest Gift

God is All Knowing

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. Psalm 139: 1-5

God knows us completely – this makes Him omniscient or “all-knowing”. He knows every word and deed – good and bad – and yet he loves us and invites us into a relationship with Him. He does not condemn; he does not judge; he accepts us unconditionally. He guides us through every trial. He knows and loves us completely. Isn’t it amazing to know God knows it all – from the biggest issues in our life down to even the smallest of details? And, that He yearns for us to know Him.

What are you waiting for? Why not let God come into your life? Why not accept the greatest gift ever given? - a relationship with God Himself!

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15

Because God is all knowing, through Jesus He gives us the gift to know Him personally.

Friday, May 15, 2020

Hope Found

God is Faithful

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28


With the sudden onslaught of Covid 19 and the continued fallout, one could begin to doubt that there is a God who is good when faced with these dire circumstances.

There are some things that we just can’t comprehend, but we have to trust that God is in control and that in all things God works for the good. For it is in times like these that we are given a chance to show love and compassion to total strangers. This is how hope is restored -- when we lend a helping hand to someone in need. God commanded us to love one another – to help, to care, to support and to provide for those who cannot for themselves. This is how God works – through us-- in the midst of chaos and calamity. He does not send the chaos, but He restores hope when chaos strikes.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, Hebrews 10:23-24

Because God is faithful, we can trust God is at work in the midst of calamity.

Friday, May 1, 2020

Out of Control

God is All Powerful

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

We are taught to be in control -- to take control of our lives and our circumstances. The fear and suffering generated by Covid 19, demands from sheltering in place, and the uncertainty about our economy and future was sudden, unexpected and at times is overwhelming …. What an eye opener to understanding who really is in control – an all powerful God who has the whole world in His hands! And with this revelation comes hope and a sense of peace if we trust God, believing He is good and has a plan for each of us.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:3

Because God is all powerful, we can trust that He is in control of all the circumstances in our life.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Nothing Is Impossible

God is Faithful

“If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" Mark 9:23-24

Feeling uncertain and overwhelmed? Gripped with fear and no longer in control as the pandemic sweeps over the nation and globe? Don’t lose hope. Jesus’ words suggest it requires much more than our own efforts to obtain results, that it requires faith. Jesus demonstrates what is possible if we place our trust in Christ -- because nothing is too difficult for God. As we face challenges and trials, trust Christ to strengthen you and give you peace for what lays ahead. With Jesus as the source of our strength and hope, we can believe and trust in our Heavenly Father to provide all that we need.

I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Because God is faithful, through Christ we can trust that all our needs will be met.

If you would like for the HIM Leadership team to pray for you or someone you know in need, please reply to this email or contact us at admin@himevents.org for confidential prayer support. No prayer request is too great or too small.

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Fear Not

God is Faithful

Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?  Matthew 6:27

Many of us are worried.  Worried about the economy, our jobs, our bills, our children, our parents, our health…the list goes on.  God never intended for us to worry.  Genuine concern for a matter moves you to action but worry has ill effects.  Do not let your heart and mind be consumed by fear.  Learn to focus on what God has called important and trust him to provide.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:33-34

Because God is faithful, with Christ we need not worry.

Sunday, March 15, 2020

Lost and Found

God is Gracious

“Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:8-10

When something of value is lost, we search. And when we get lost, thankfully we have GPS to get us back on track. But what happens when we find ourselves spiritually lost, when circumstances in which we have no control leave us without hope? How do we find our way back?

Since creation, God has declared that we are His people and He is our God. And while humanity struggles with this bold proclamation, the truth is we are lost without God. The good news is that God continues to draw His people to Himself so we find peace through any storm. Today, if you find yourself lost, will you take one step closer to knowing God’s very own Son who gave His life to save you?

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10

He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Acts 16:30-31

Because God is gracious, through Jesus we find hope for eternity.

Sunday, March 1, 2020

Did It Again

God is All Powerful

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. Romans 7:15

How many of us are still adhering to our New Year’s resolutions? Although well intended, it does not take too long before the enthusiasm behind those pledges fades and our old habits are back. Why is change so hard?

The Bible tells us the battle to do right is beyond our control; that not only does our sinful nature provoke us but Satan himself lures us to sin. We however, have been given the power to be victorious. Yes, freedom can be found, but it is not in our own strength. We must rely on God’s power through Christ who is at work in us. Are you willing to admit you are powerless to change and place your trust in Him?

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. Galatians 5:16-17

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:10-12

Because God is all-powerful, we can change anything with Jesus working in our lives.

Saturday, February 15, 2020

Building Castles

God is Eternal

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. Matthew 7:25

Many of us have spent extended time on the beach building elaborate castles in the sand, only to find them destroyed at a moment’s notice. Life can challenge us in the same way. Things we work hard for and think we control can all disappear in an instant.

When trials come, God’s desire is that we place our hope in Him and not in what we are able to achieve in our own strength. He lovingly invites us to focus on His Kingdom and trust in His plan. God has already built the perfect resting place for us in the here and now and for eternity through Jesus. Yes, the work is done. But to experience such heavenly peace, we must choose to live by faith and not simply by what we see.

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Because God is eternal, with Jesus, our future is certain.