September 23, 2018
with Pastor Terrell
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” ~ James 1:2-4 (ESV) ~ As I began writing this today — Wednesday — I became aware that today is national “Talk Like a Pirate Day.” I am always fascinated at the number of weird things that get their own day! So, in honor of this special day: What did the pirate say on his eightieth birthday? Answer: “Aye, Matey!” I know, it’s a lame joke. But I am reminded of pirates today.
PASTORAL STAFF
In James 1:2 we find James using a particular word. The word “trials” that he uses is the Greek word: “peirasmos” — from we which we also get our English word: “pirate.” I find it interesting that pirates and trials have a lot in common when we encounter them. For example…
Terrell Eldreth, Senior Pastor Scott Terry, Worship Pastor
1. Pirates don’t Announce their Arrival Ahead of Time Life would sure be easier if they would just make an appointment before they show up. But no, pirates and trials just arrive — most of the time, at the most inopportune moments. They show up when your schedule is already full — when your checking account is already depleted — when you are already feeling drained physically, emotionally or spiritually. Yet here they are at your doorstep. You just suddenly encounter them. James says you “meet” them. That Greek word means to encounter an unwelcome and unanticipated experience.
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2. Pirates Attack Back to that word “pirate.” It means “attacker.” That definition alone seems to be the majority of their job description. I have never faced a trial that did not in some way attack me, my family or my church.
• • Bible Study
9:00 A.M. • • Morning Worship Service
10:30 A.M. • • Evening Worship Service
6:00 P.M.
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