S.W.S.

It never ceases to amaze me how many people living outside of God’s Word want to give counsel. Maybe it’s a natural tendency we have to want to give advice but a lot of counsel given has no scriptural foundation.  We had an elder’s summit this last weekend and a friend of mine, Steve Altmeyer, suggested that we start implementing something he called “S.W.S.”

Oftentimes, as church leaders, we make decisions that affect our church family.  God’s Word teaches us that, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” Proverbs 15:22 (KJV)  We need to seek and consider good counsel when we are faced with decisions that will affect Christ’s body.  But we also need to ensure that the counsel we receive is from the Word of God and not the wisdom of men.  Steve’s challenge is for us to say, “S.W.S.” when we are given information to consider when making decisions.  What does S.W.S. stand for?  S.- Support, W.-with, S.-Scripture.  Our first core value is that God’s Word is our final authority and when we’re making decisions it’s important that we S.W.S. the decisions we make.

How about you?  Are the decisions you make Scripture based or are you relying on the wisdom of man?  My hope is that you too will start ‘supporting with Scripture’ the things you are saying and challenge others to S.W.S. the things they’re saying to you.

God Bless you,

Pastor Jim

Invitation Accepted

In the Book of Proverbs, Chapter 9 verses 4 and 16, we find the same words from two very different women, “‘Let all who are simple come in here!’ she says to those who lack judgment.”  Both wisdom and folly are personified by the writer as females.  One offers instruction that leads to life, wisdom and understanding; the other offers temporary pleasures that lead to death.  It amazes me how many people choose the latter.   We are invited by both to participate in what they have to offer and the choice seems simple but many get it wrong.

It’s your choice, you don’t have to choose folly and get it wrong.  Instead you can choose wisdom, leave your simple ways and walk in the way of understanding, accept rebuke and instruction from others, fear the Lord, learn more about Him and enjoy many days and the rewards that come from wisdom.  God’s Word is truth and brings life.  He is our Creator and His instruction is for our benefit.

Thanks for reading and God bless you,

Pastor Jim