Pastor Ben Smith

10/21/2026

Redemption has a cost, and Jesus Christ has paid it for His people. Listen to “Redeemed” from Ruth 4:1–12 to see how Boaz’s decision at the city gate points us to the assurance found in Christ’s finished work.

In Ruth 4:1–12, Boaz willingly accepts the cost of redeeming Ruth and her family’s property. This sermon explains how his actions point to Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice fully accomplishes the redemption of His people.

10/14/2026

Waiting can be hard when nothing appears to have changed. Ruth 3 teaches us how to have hope-filled patience while you wait on the Lord.

This expository sermon on Ruth 3 explores preparation, humility, submission, and hope-filled waiting. Ben Smith shows how Boaz points to Christ, the true Redeemer, and why believers can live by God’s faithful promise even when circumstances have not yet changed.

10/10/2026

A text is great, but a handwritten note of encouragement is something a pastor or planter can keep on their desk and re-read on the hard days. ✍️

Here are 4 ideas of what to write:
➡️ “I want to let you know how much your message on [Topic/Scripture] challenged me. Because of your faithful preaching, I am trusting God with...”
➡️ “Thank you for the quiet, unseen ways you shepherd our church family, from early morning prayers to late-night counseling. Your faithfulness doesn’t go unnoticed.”
➡️ “I deeply appreciate your integrity, humility, and genuine love for our community. Thank you (and your family) for the sacrifices you make to lead us.”
➡️ “I am praying for you and your family specifically this week. Asking God to give you [prayer request].”

Save this post, pick up a card, and drop a note of gratitude to your pastor or local church planter this ! 🙏

10/09/2026

I have offered my share of coaching advice from the sidelines at our children’s games. The players usually carried on as though they had not heard me. Their disregard for sideline instructions demonstrates an important principle: the spectators were not in charge of the team. The church faces plenty of voices telling us what to believe, what to say, and what to leave unsaid. But the loudest voice does not have the greatest authority. In my latest Ponderings article, “Play for the Coach, Not the Crowd,” I reflect on 1 Thessalonians 2:4 and our calling to please God, love people, and remain faithful to the gospel. Whose approval is shaping our faithfulness? Read the article:

What does it mean to please God rather than people? Through a soccer sideline illustration and 1 Thessalonians 2:4, Ben Smith, Sr., reflects on resisting cultural pressure, holding fast to biblical truth, and loving others without compromising the gospel.

10/07/2026

God often works through quiet acts of service. Listen to “A Servant’s Heart” from Ruth 2:17–23 to hear how Ruth’s care for Naomi became an occasion for God’s provision and grace.

In this expository sermon on Ruth 2:17–23, Ben Smith examines Ruth’s servant heart. Discover how Christian service puts others first, requires sacrifice, honors God-given authority, and becomes an instrument of grace in God’s redemptive work.

10/05/2026

Friends in Berrien, Lanier, Cook, and the surrounding counties: I’ll be preaching tomorrow (10/5) evening at FBC Ray City for their revival service. The service begins at 7:00 p.m. If you’re nearby, I’d love to see you there!

09/30/2026

Ruth went to the field looking for food, but God was providing for more than she could see. Listen now to “God Provides,” a sermon from Ruth 2:1–16, and consider how God's grace calls us to trust and obey Him in times of need.

This expository sermon on Ruth 2:1–16 explores God’s provision through Ruth’s gleaning and Boaz’s kindness. Ben Smith explains how God provides enough, teaches dependence, honors obedience, and prepares for His people’s needs according to grace and His eternal purpose.

09/25/2026

Pierce and Ware County friends, I will be preaching again this Lord’s Day at Briarwood Baptist Church. Service starts at 11:00 am. If you are in the area, I would love for you to join us.

09/23/2026

What you do when suffering leaves you unable to understand God’s plan? In “Where You Go, I Go,” an expository sermon from Ruth 1, we learn to turn toward the Lord, trust His sovereignty, and remain faithful in every circumstance. Listen now at:

In this expository sermon from Ruth 1, Pastor Ben Smith explains how Ruth and Naomi’s story teaches us to trust God’s sovereignty, turn toward Him in suffering, and remain faithful when His plan is not yet clear.

09/18/2026

Pierce and Ware County friends, I will be preaching at Briarwood Baptist Church this Lord's Day. Service starts at 11:00 am. If you are in the area, I would love for you to join us.