The Village Church at Buchtel

06/25/2026

James compares the doubting person to a wave tossed by the wind.

A wave has no anchor. It simply responds to whatever force is pushing it at the moment.
Many people live this way spiritually. Their confidence rises and falls with circumstances. Good news strengthens them; bad news discourages them.
They are constantly reacting because they are not rooted.

Faith does not mean we never have questions. It means we choose to trust God's character even when we do not understand His plan.

When storms come, the goal is not to avoid the waves. The goal is to be anchored to Christ.

The stronger the storm, the more valuable the anchor becomes.

06/24/2026

When difficulties come, our first instinct is often to figure everything out ourselves.

But James points us in a different direction: ask God.
Wisdom is more than information. It is the ability to see life from God's perspective and respond in a way that honors Him.

The good news is that God is generous. He does not shame us for asking. He does not roll His eyes at our weakness. He welcomes dependent children who seek His guidance.

When you don't know what to do next, don't panic. Pray.

God may not always give immediate answers, but He promises to give wisdom to those who seek Him.

06/23/2026

James does not tell us to enjoy our trials. He tells us to count them as joy.

Why? Because God is doing something through them.
A blacksmith places metal into the fire not to destroy it but to strengthen it. The heat reveals weaknesses and impurities so they can be removed. Without the fire, the metal remains fragile.

In the same way, God often uses trials to refine our faith. What feels like a setback may actually be spiritual formation. What feels like pressure may be producing perseverance.

The trial you are facing today is not meaningless. God is still at work in the fire.

06/22/2026

James could have introduced himself as the brother of Jesus. He could have pointed to his influence in the early church. Instead, he chose a different title: servant.

In a world obsessed with status, titles, and recognition, James reminds us that our greatest identity is not what we accomplish but who we belong to.

The word servant was not a term of weakness. It was a badge of honor. It meant complete devotion, complete surrender, and complete allegiance to God.

The kingdom of God works differently than the kingdoms of this world. The world says, “Rise higher.” Jesus says, “Go lower.” The world says, “Make a name for yourself.” Jesus says, “Follow Me.”

Today, ask yourself: Am I more concerned with my position or my posture before God?

06/21/2026

06/21/2026

Book of James

This week, we are starting a new series on the Book of James.
If you want to know what it looks like to be a christian, this series is for you.

06/20/2026

This week, we are starting a new series on the Book of James.

If you want to know what it looks like to be a christian, this series is for you.

If you come coffee and donuts on me. Hope to see you at 9am.

06/16/2026

Keep Helen Addis and her family in your prayers as they mourn the passing of her brother John.

John M. Campbell, age 85, of Murray City, Ohio, passed away June 14, 2026 at his residence.

06/14/2026

06/14/2026

Near Death Experience

06/13/2026

A good opportunity to gather with other believers.

Nelsonville Holiness Camp address: 13674 Ten Spot Road, Nelsonville, OH 45764

https://share.google/PqpdRDnm0AqRmUPlu

06/12/2026

Many people spend their lives trying to carry every burden alone. They carry responsibilities, fears, disappointments, financial pressures, family concerns, and countless worries. Over time, the load becomes exhausting.

Yet God never intended His children to carry life by themselves.

Peter gives a simple but powerful command: "Give all your worries and cares to God." The word "give" carries the idea of throwing or casting something onto another. God invites us to transfer the weight from our shoulders to His.

This is not because He needs our burdens. It is because He loves us.

The verse reminds us that God cares personally for His children. He is not distant or indifferent. He is concerned about everything that concerns us.

Today, consider what you have been trying to manage on your own. The strongest thing you may do is admit your need for God's help and place that burden in His hands.