Dear friends, “And the beast was seized, and with him the false prophet who performed the signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image; these two were thrown alive into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone.” Rev. 19:20 What is the mark of the beast referred to several times in the book of Revelation? Many…
Dear friends, What’s your brand? Do you prefer Pete’s coffee over Starbucks? When people think about you, do they immediately think of certain qualities that make you distinctive? Do family members and friends know what they can count on from you? Does your reputation extend beyond those who know you personally? About 6 weeks ago…
Dearly beloved, Who are you hanging out with? Does it really matter? If you are a parent, are you at all concerned about your children’s friends? Years ago, I memorized this verse: “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” Proverbs 13:20 Wisdom in the Old…
Do you like a good mystery? Maybe you would prefer a nice romance novel instead? Mystery: Something not understood or beyond understanding A piece of fiction dealing usually with the solution of a mysterious crime A religious truth that one can know only by revelation like the Trinity Something profound, inexplicable, or secretive quality or character Romance:…
Dear Church family, This morning I reminded everyone that February 7th is the “First Tuesday” of the month and is a special day the elders and pastors of Valley Church set aside for fasting and prayer. We’re asking God to do a work of revival and renewal both IN us and THROUGH US. We invite…
Dearly beloved, When is the last time you cashed in on a “money-back guarantee?” It’s a great thing! You buy a product, but something goes wrong with it within the time of the guarantee. You take it back to the store and they either give you your money back, or replace the product with one…
Dearly beloved, “Surrender to Love” is a title of a book that I just picked up from my desk! It is written by David Benner and deals with, “Discovering the Heart of Christian Spirituality.” The book was a gift from someone who loves me! Professor Gary Oliver says: “The tragic reality is that most people…
Dearly beloved, “Surrender to Love” is a title of a book that I just picked up from my desk! It is written by David Benner and deals with, “Discovering the Heart of Christian Spirituality.” The book was a gift from someone who loves me! Professor Gary Oliver says: “The tragic reality is that most people…
Dearly beloved, “What do you know for sure?” My grandpa used to ask me that question sometimes! It was kind of a greeting like, “what’s happening” or “what’s up!” What do you know for sure? What are you absolutely certain of? Our new series in Philippians is, “The Disciple’s Path to Glory.” Are you convinced…
Dear Travelers, I just got back from a quick trip to LA and back, and I can tell you driving in So Cal is different than Nor Cal. In my experience, people are just plain crazy down there! Add to that way too many cars, driving way too fast, with WAY too much rain coming…