08/30/2026
At the end of service this morning, I realized that we had not recorded the message. I sincerely hate that we missed the opportunity to share it, because Pastor Mark Tolson preached such a powerful and timely sermon. If you were unable to attend, you truly missed a wonderful message.
Pastor Mark reminded us of how faithfully God cared for the children of Israel during their 40 years in the wilderness. The Lord fed them with manna from Heaven, their clothes did not wear out, their feet did not swell, and even their shoes lasted throughout the journey. He protected them, provided for them, and never abandoned them.
As they prepared to enter the Promised Land—a land filled with plenty—God gave them an important warning: When you have eaten and are satisfied, when you have built beautiful homes, and when everything you possess has increased, be careful that your heart does not become proud and cause you to forget the Lord. Never begin to think that your own strength or abilities produced your blessings. Always remember that it is the Lord who gives us the ability, strength, and opportunity to prosper.
That same warning applies to us today. When life is difficult, we are often quick to call upon the Lord. But when life is good, our schedules are full, our needs are met, and everything seems to be going our way, it can become so easy to forget the One who made it all possible. Prayer becomes less important. Attending church is no longer a priority. Praise and gratitude are replaced by busyness, and we begin taking God’s blessings for granted.
The truth is, we could accomplish nothing and possess nothing without our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Every good thing in our lives comes from Him. The blessings we sometimes take for granted can change in a matter of seconds, so we must never wait until trouble comes to remember the Lord.
Some of the happiest and most peaceful people you will ever meet are not necessarily those who have the most—they are those who possess a genuinely thankful heart. Gratitude changes the way we see our lives. It helps us recognize God’s goodness in both the mountaintops and the valleys.
May we always remain faithful, humble, and grateful. Let us never become so comfortable with God’s blessings that we forget the God who provided them. Remember where the Lord brought you from, thank Him for where you are today, and trust Him with where He is leading you tomorrow.
Thank you, Pastor Mark, for reminding us that we must never forget the Lord or take His goodness for granted.