Dear Family,
Our relationships, families, and finances are influenced by the economy, war, weather, and decisions made by other people. It would seem we are at the mercy of things beyond our control and to some extent we are. During the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, the great plains were plagued with a devastating drought. The crisis led to the rise of men who claimed to be able to bring rain—for a fee of course. They were called Rainmakers. Most of the time they were con artists who sought to exploit people by offering false hope. But some were sincere and really believed they had a gift that would help people. I don’t know if they did or not, but I do know that each of us has been given gifts that can make a difference and cause the Holy Spirit to "rain down."
When God established his covenant with Adam, He promised him dominion and blessing. When He established his covenant with Noah, He promised him protection and bountiful harvests. When He established his covenant with Abraham, He promised him prosperity and a bright future. When God made His covenant with Israel, He said that if they remained faithful He would fight their wars, bless their crops, and protect them from sickness and disease.
Our Heavenly Father offers us all this and more. Through faith in Jesus Christ God has given us an even better covenant. Jesus taught that we shouldn’t be anxious about money, fearful of our enemies, or worried about our lives or future. Through Christ we know that no matter what is happening in the world around us, He is always faithful to us. He has promised that He would never leave or forsake us—and that He will always hear our prayers. He knows our material needs and if we make His Kingdom our priority, God will supply our needs in abundance. But there's more! He forgave our sins. He'll give us wisdom if we ask. He will help us answer our critics. He will give us the fruit of the Spirit—love joy, peace, patience, kindness, and long suffering in every increasing measure that defies logic or reason.
These are difficult times in America. But we are not without hope—nor are we without power. Don’t let the winds of change discourage or stop you. Don't be a victim of the news—change the news through faith in God. Become God's "Rain Maker."
Blessings,
Pastor Reece
