There probably won’t be a lot of these posts, but there have been a bunch of subtle changes to the site recently. But before we get into that:
I wish to thank all of you who have contributed to the content of the website so far!
Now, onto the changes:
The “Photo Gallery” page and the “2025 Renovation” page have been overhauled. I hope you like the new layout.
There have been several additions to the History section of the “Community Links” page. Most of these additions are church directories.
Pastor Harry’s Biweekly Devotionals continue being added to the blog.
The weekly items, Scripture, Upcoming Events and such, also continue to be updated.
Now, I have a request: If you have any of the church directories or anything else that you would like to see on the website, please let me know. randy@newrichmondumc.com
As always, any input is appreciated. You can use the “Pray Request, Contact Card” form, email, or just see me in person.
James 3:17
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
Living Out Divine Wisdom and Love
Imagine the transformation our world would experience if everyone embraced and embodied the wisdom found in James 3:17. If we truly followed the guidance of scripture—allowing God's pure love to lead us to be peace-loving, considerate, merciful, impartial, and sincere—our relationships and communities would reflect divine grace and compassion. This vision is God's dream for creation, beautifully demonstrated in the life and teachings of Jesus.
While we recognize that perfection is unattainable in a fallen world, those who profess Christ as Lord are called to be living examples of love toward our neighbors. When we choose to celebrate or condone actions that do not align with these ideals, we distort the image of a loving and grace-filled God that we claim to follow in Jesus' name. Therefore, we must continually strive to reflect love for both God and neighbor—not only through our actions but also in all that we endorse and support.
Deuteronomy 31:6 (ESV)
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.
Placing Our Faith and Trust in God
We often hear that self-reliance is a virtue and that we should depend on our own strength. Many are familiar with the saying, “God helps those who help themselves.” However, this notion is not found in scripture. In fact, the Bible teaches the opposite: while we each have a role to play, our primary source of strength and guidance should be God. True faith is not about relying solely on ourselves but about looking to God for direction and support.
It is essential to remember that God is always present, especially in times of need. Our faith must remain rooted in God, particularly during moments of stress and challenge. Rather than depending solely on our own abilities, we are called to lean into God’s presence and trust that He will care for us. The ways in which God provides help may be unexpected, and it is important to be open to the forms that assistance may take. For example, consider the story of the man who refused rescue three times during a flood, insisting that God would save him. After his death, he asked God why he was not saved, and God replied, “I sent boats and a helicopter.” This reminds us that God’s help can come in many ways, but we must be willing to reach out and accept it.
