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Tag: Nehemiah

  • Leading Courageously (Part 2)

    Jason Hardy
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    Watch the full service online by clicking here.

    Scripture: Nehemiah 4:6

    Courageous faith does not always begin with certainty. Sometimes it begins when we allow God to show us what matters, remain open to where the Spirit is leading, and trust that we do not have to carry the work alone. Nehemiah’s story reminds us that God can take concern, prayer, and a willing heart and turn them into faithful action.

    The same is true for us. Following Christ draws our attention beyond ourselves and helps us see the people God has placed around us in a new way. We begin to notice neighbors, relationships, and opportunities that might otherwise be easy to overlook. Discipleship becomes more than what we believe. It becomes the way we listen, welcome, serve, and make room for others.

    God has already moved toward us in love through Jesus Christ. We respond to that grace by becoming people willing to move toward one another. As we pray, grow together, and listen for God’s direction, may the Spirit give us courage for the work before us and hearts ready to participate in what God is already doing.

    Take Time to Reflect

    • How is Christ inviting you to move toward someone in love this week?
    • What has God been bringing to your attention lately?
    • Where might prayer be preparing you to take a faithful next step?

  • Leading Courageously

    Jason Hardy
    Categories:
    YouTube player

    Watch the full service online by clicking here.

    Scripture: Psalm 46:1-11, Matthew 5 (Sermon on the Mount)

    Over the past several weeks, we have been exploring what it means to Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, and now, Lead Courageously. This final invitation reminds us that courageous leadership does not begin with confidence, influence, or having all the answers. It begins with a life rooted in God’s love. As we spend time in Scripture, prayer, worship, and spiritual practices that draw us closer to Christ, God shapes our hearts so that we are ready to respond when He calls us to lead.

    Jesus invites us to seek a different kind of righteousness, not one earned by following rules, but one that grows from hearts aligned with God’s own heart. When we hunger for justice, extend mercy, make peace, and love our neighbors, our lives begin to reflect Christ’s love in ways that quietly transform our homes, our church, and our community. Courageous leadership is not reserved for a few. It is the calling of ordinary disciples who trust God enough to take the next faithful step.

    Psalm 46 reminds us that even when the world feels uncertain, God remains our refuge and strength. Before we rush into action, we are invited to “be still and know” that God is with us. As Saint Matthew continues seeking God’s purpose in east Fort Worth, we are reminded that we do not lead alone. Christ goes before us, strengthens us when we grow weary, and calls each of us to participate in His work with faith, hope, and courage.

    Take Time to Reflect

    • How might God use your everyday acts of faithfulness to bring Christ’s love to someone else?n open hearts, open minds, and open doors. Wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here.
    • Where is God inviting you to take a courageous step of faith this week?
    • What spiritual practices help you remain rooted in God’s love and prepared for His calling?

  • When Joy is Hard to Find

    Jason Hardy
    Categories:

    Watch the full service online by clicking here.

    Life has seasons when joy comes easily—and seasons when it feels almost impossible to find. This week, Rev. Mary Teague reminded us that Christian joy isn’t dependent on our circumstances. It is rooted in God’s presence with us.

    Looking to Nehemiah’s encouragement that “the joy of the Lord is your strength” and Peter’s words to believers enduring hardship, we were reminded that God never promises an easy life. Instead, God promises to walk with us through every season, offering hope, strength, and a joy that cannot be taken away by life’s challenges.

    When we feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or weary, we are invited to turn back to God, who renews our hearts and reminds us that our hope is found not in what is happening around us, but in the One who is always with us.

    Take Time to Reflect

    Where have you been looking for joy lately? Has it depended on your circumstances, or have you allowed God’s presence to be your source of strength? This week, take a few quiet moments each day to thank God for one blessing and ask God to renew your joy, even in the middle of life’s difficult seasons.