Sometimes troubles just happen and there was nothing you could do about it. But isn’t it true that sometimes we make our own trouble? Instead of being guided by God’s Word, we go our own way. And, surprise! our way doesn’t work as well as God’s way. In Psalm 84:5 we read, “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.” The pilgrimage that the Psalmist speaks of could be translated “course of action.” The point of the verse is that when we trust in God, find our strength in him, and put our faith into action by follow his course of action, we will be blessed. (Blessed also means “to be happy.”)

Jesus Christ set us free from sin’s deadly curse by taking the punishment of our sins away on the cross. He also set us free from sin’s deadly influence. We are raised to new life in Christ. As his holy people, we will still face troubles, but we will find happiness in him and his ways. God's ways may not always be easy and they may not be popular, but they are always right. Don’t ignore God’s will for your own ways. Ignoring him leads to trouble. Instead, find the joy of hearing God’s Word and putting it into practice in your homes and everywhere you go!

Pastor Aufdemberge

Pastor Kneser

Pastor Wempner

Pastor Zarling