Faith

Joy: Where can I get that?

PASTOR’S CORNER, Elizabeth Morgan, First Church of the Nazarene, Liberal

Do you remember back in children's church when we would sing the song, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart?” Wow, talk about some good times! Well today we might find ourselves struggling to find joy in our lives due to loss, stress, and even depression. But why?

The question today is, “how often do we try to find “joy” in our life, but can’t seem to keep it once we get it?” I am a true believer that it is due to the fact that we are achieving the feeling of happiness and not obtaining true joy. Only God can give us joy through his word, and spending time with him daily in prayer.

Peace in the chaos

PASTOR’S CORNER, Elizabeth Morgan, First Church of the Nazarene, Liberal

Are you feeling stressed, busy, or like your world is in chaos? You are not alone! There are so many things going on at the same time. End of year quotas, Christmas shopping, students getting out for a few weeks, and the list goes on. So the question this week is, “How can we find “Peace” when the world around us is chaotic?”

John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV)

Hope and a future with Christ

PASTOR’S CORNER, Elizabeth Morgan, First Church of the Nazarene, Liberal

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you not to harm you, but give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

This verse is one of my most favorite verses in the Bible. In this Advent season, I am reminded that God is our only hope in every season.

Pause and express some gratitude this Thanksgiving Day

PASTOR’S CORNER, Pastor Phillip Dow, New Beginnings Church, Liberal

As the crisp autumn air settles across our our corner of the state, Thanksgiving invites us to pause and reflect. It’s a time for family gatherings, hearty meals, and football games, but most importantly, it’s an opportunity to cultivate gratitude. For believers, this season is not just about the blessings we enjoy, it’s about recognizing the Giver of all good gifts and embracing a heart of thankfulness rooted in faith.

Living a life of justice, mercy, and humility before God

PASTOR’S CORNER, Pastor Phillip Dow, New Beginnings Church, Liberal

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8, NIV)

Micah 6:8 is one of the clearest calls in Scripture to live out our faith in a way that reflects God’s character. It captures the heart of what God desires for His people: a life of justice, mercy, and humility in our relationship with Him and with others.