Slideshow image

Hey Vineyard Fam, Happy Wednesday!

First, I want to say thank you and Happy Veterans Day to all of our veterans and the families that served as their veteran served. Thank you! I hope you enjoy some free stuff of gratitude today!

Now on to our blog! On Sunday, James directed our attention toward Jesus’ return. This is our blessed hope: we await Jesus himself and the completion of his redeeming work. The One we are waiting for shapes the people we are becoming.

That hope meets us in ordinary places of uncertainty. We wonder about someone we love, a relationship, our health, or a decision ahead. Our minds rehearse possibilities as though thinking hard enough could secure the future.

Christian hope gives us somewhere to bring those concerns. Jesus is faithful, and our future belongs to him. We can ask for what we need while learning to follow him without knowing how everything will unfold.

This week, try making five quiet minutes available to God.

Begin by reading James 5:7–11 slowly. Notice James’s invitation to patience and his reminder of the Lord’s compassion and mercy. Sit comfortably and allow your breathing to settle. There is no particular feeling you need to produce.

Name one concern before God: “Lord, I am afraid of…” Resist the urge to explain every possible outcome. He knows the people involved, the circumstances, and your heart.

Then pray slowly: “Jesus, you are faithful. I entrust this to you.” Allow some silence. When your attention returns to the concern, gently return to the prayer. Each return can become a small act of trust.

You can still ask honestly for healing, reconciliation, protection, or direction. Then add, “Help me receive your care and follow your will here.” Entrusting something to God may need to happen many times. You have not failed because the concern returns or because you do not feel calmer.

Before you finish, ask: “What is mine to do faithfully today?” Perhaps there is a conversation to have, help to receive, or a responsibility to fulfill. Let that one step be enough for now.

Jesus, our coming King, you know what I cannot see and what I cannot secure. Receive my fears. Keep me attentive to your presence and willing to follow your direction. Teach me to love faithfully today as I entrust tomorrow to you. Amen.

This Sunday, Psalm 27 will help us continue that prayer. It gives us words for both confidence and fear, for seeking God’s face and waiting with courage. Bring your unanswered questions with you. We are learning to seek him together.

Grateful to walk with you,

Adam Greenwell