God's Way Through Christ Ministry

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” — Hebrews 13:16 (NIV). In this third and final part of the series on Gift Giving, Pastor Nate shares with us the good news of the most valuable gift ever given to man. Christmas is most notably a time of joy, happiness, and peace. It is when many tend to be more pleasant and agreeable, which are tenants of the Biblical definition of good. The main reason for this day is to acknowledge and accept the greatest and most sacrificial gift, the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Through this gift, we gain immeasurable hope, peace, comfort, joy, favor, and most of all, salvation which is our admittance to entering heaven and spending eternity in glory with God. Let us take heed of the teachings in this Christmas message on what it means to be a recipient and follower of the greatest gift ever, Jesus Christ.

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." — 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV). Continuing this series on gift giving, Pastor Nate shares with us truths about how each of us has been given spiritual gifts from God. Part 2 points out that these gifts we have been given that we did not earn are to be used to serve others, trusting in God as we exercise and manage our gifts with humility and grace. What we know for this as gifts are as unique as humans. We need not envy the gifts of another, as we were all created for a purpose. We gain insight and wisdom on fulfilling that purpose through our close and abiding relationship with God.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16 (NIV). In this holiday season, where much time is spent focused on and obsessing over giving and receiving gifts, the one true, eternal gift is often overlooked. In this multi-part message series, Pastor Nate shares insights and revelations about the type of gifts we should be giving. The light within us that leaves an indelible impact long after the lights have been packed away, and the holiday cheer fades back into the mundane routine of our daily bustle. Listen in as this simple yet profound message inspires us to look beyond the outer wrapper to the true meaning and gift that resides within.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, ” — Colossians 3:23 (NIV). We spend so much of our short lives laboring. Working to pay bills, pay for housing, education, medical expenses, and hopefully vacations. Sometimes, it is all we can do just to meet the bare minimum in necessities which, for some, that mean picking and choosing. Enter the glaring and sometimes painful reality that we are ignored, taken for granted, and even mistreated in our striving. Why, then, should we work for those who do not appreciate our talents and efforts. The answer is that we are not doing it for man. As believers and members of the Body of Christ, all we do is for God, or at least should be. This is how we reconcile the good and bad to have peace. To honor and praise Him and His goodness with our efforts, minds, bodies, and souls. In our walk, He has us venture into some scary places. But trust and know, you are there for a Rivne purpose and reason. In all you do, carry out what you have been assigned and purposed to do, but for God!

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9  (NIV). In a world having nearly eight billion humans, you would think it would be impossible to be alone. Physically perhaps, but what about those times we face overwhelming adversity? You find out who your true friends are when losing a job, experiencing financial challenges, or worse, losing a loved one. Sadly, during those times when having support means the most, the phone grows silent, leaving us to treat text messages and junk mail as if they really care. The loneliness and isolation during tough times can be void of hope. Thankfully, we can rest assured that God has not and will not abandon us. We can rely on Him to be there right in the mix of our problems, providing all of the love, support, and strength to endure that we will ever need. Regardless of eternal turmoil, we can enjoy peace and comfort at all times because He loves us and will never forsake us, even when we might ignore Him. We are assured we are never alone with God and the Holy Trinity

“So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. ” — 1 Corinthians 12:25  (NIV). As humankind, we were not meant to be divided or to work against each other. This is especially true for those who profess to be members of the Body of Christ. Sadly, this very act is something that runs rampant in our world today. Countless reasons and causes are used and hidden behind to justify division, meanness, disrespect, ill-treatment, divisiveness, and even hatred. Further, these behaviors act like cancer in the human body, destroying and even killing the host. Division is a rouge social disease that is spreading at an alarming rate. However, as a Christian and believer in God, there is no justification to rationalize or support such vile treatment of our fellow man. The Bible teaches the exact opposite. We are charged with loving one another, even if we despise their behavior. We are better served to show love and kindness while extending forgiveness to extinguish the destructive flames of division. We all have a choice and a voice in the matter. We will all be held accountable for how we respond or remain silent and allow the reign of terror to continue its path of destruction.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ” — Philippians 4:6  (NIV). We’ve all been there. Some are deep in the throws of dealing with life’s challenges at this very moment. Somehow, we mistakenly got the idea that worrying about a challenge, adversity, or situation is what we are supposed to do. In this message, Pastor Nate shares God’s instructions with us when we face challenges of any kind. Regardless of whatever adversity we find ourselves dealing with, we can have peace, even when it doesn’t make sense. When difficulty strikes, we are best served to keep our minds elevated and focused on the things of God. In doing so, we will find divine protection, assurance, comfort, and peace, despite any circumstance.

“Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” — Isaiah 43:19 (AMP). How often have we held ourselves back by dwelling on the past? It could be past hurts, experiences, trauma, or even mistakes we have made. When we get hung up on things in our past, it can cause us to procrastinate, become filled with self-doubt, and even smother our goals and dreams. Pastor Nate reminds us of God’s goodness and mercy in today’s message. Of how when we live a life that is in line with God’s purpose for us, not only does he overlook our past mistakes, God will make a way where there seems to be no way. If God can create rivers in the desert, He can most assuredly make a path for you to fulfill your God-given purpose for a fulfilling life.

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” — Romans 8:6 (NIV). As humans, we are led by the spirit. It can be good or evil. The flesh (human nature) is ripe with wicked desires. Perhaps you have heard of “lust of the flesh.” In this message, Pastor Nate teaches the principle and value of rejecting the influence of the carnal spirit and instead allowing our hearts and minds to be led by the Holy Spirit. As the key verse states, there is a one-way road leading to a dead-end when we give into fleshly desires. A road filled with turmoil, unrest, upset, and eventual death. Choosing to be led by Holy Spirit provides us with comfort in painful times, peace amid adversity, joy in place of tears, and most of all, a promise of eternal life with our Lord and Savior. We get to choose.

“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.” — Proverbs 13:22 (NIV). It would be wise to consider the sunset of our lives long before getting there. Ask ourselves what difference did I make during my time on this earth. In this message, Pastor Nate expands upon this important verse about the type of inheritance we should leave - our legacy. More important than leaving stuff to our loved ones is the character we instill in them, imparting knowledge that will enable them to live a life that produces good fruit and is pleasing in God’s sight. This is primarily done by emulating the behaviors sought, not just speaking to them. “Good” is not simply about who we are but about who lives in our hearts, guiding our actions, words, and behaviors toward others and ourselves.

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. ” — Psalm 73:26 (NIV). Envy is not a spirit of God. Envy is poisonous to us. Yes, we may have struggles while others appear to be on the easy street. Pastor Nate speaks about how it can be challenging to cope with seeing the wicked prosper when we are trying to live an upright and pleasing life in God’s sight. While at the same time, we see others living out their lives any way they please, caring little for others, taking advantage of many, all the while appearing to want or lack for nothing. Take heart. Do not be tempted to become filled with toxic envy. Material prosperity is temporal. Those who mock God and His commands will one day be swept away and suddenly meet with destruction. Don’t be caught up with them. Instead, guard your heart, keeping it filled with love. Envy will not only rob you of your peace but cause you to slip, fall, and stumble off the path God has intended for you to follow. Stay the course; as a follower of Christ, you enjoy the benefits of having God as your strength and portion forever.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” — Psalm 55:22 (NIV). We know from experience that this life brings many troubles. Too often, they can feel overwhelming, smother, and even cause us to become paralyzed with fear. But God is not the creator or source of carnal fear. Pastor Nate addresses how God expects us to throw and dispose of our care on Him in this message. To then let go and now that He will sustain us. The path of righteous living provides a safe haven from this otherwise dark and corrupt world. Let God fight your battles for a guaranteed win because He does not fail!

“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” — Isaiah 40:8 (NIV). Almost everything in this world is temporary. It will not withstand the test of time. In this message, Pastor Nate encourages us to be wise and prudent, aware of this fact, and refrain from attaching ourselves to temporal things. Instead, we should stand firm on the word of God alone, as it endures forever. What matters the most in this world and the next are the truths, teachings, instruction, and promises of our omnipotent, omnipresent God that comforts us in times of distress while shielding up from the trials of this world. God’s word stands apart from everything else in this world as a light to the path we should follow in leading a life of righteousness that is pleasing in God’s sight.

"Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us." — Romans 8:37 (AMP). During this season of so much in the way of loss, we need to hear an encouraging word. This message is about just that. God's love for us goes deeper, further, and broader than man can even begin to conceive. Additionally, to that end, there is nothing in existence, ever has been, or ever will be that can separate us from the love of God. Through that love, we are assured that God has a master plan; everything works in concert to fulfill His plan for those who love Him. Despite every obstacle, challenge, trial, or adversity, we know that we have complete triumph through God and will enjoy an overwhelming victory over it all. When we are confused, paralyzed with fear, or so tired and distraught, not knowing what to do or which way to turn, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf to ensure that the will of God will come to pass in and through us. We should take great comfort, peace, and even joy in knowing that there are no limits to the love of God through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

“I give you a new command. Love one another. You must love one another, just as I have loved you. ” — John 13:34 (NIV). This Easter message is focused on celebrating the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; we focus on one key aspect of the profound and incredible event. Pastor Nate draws our attention to the command Christ gave on love. There is far more to unpack in this account than can be covered in just one message. This is the reason for focusing on the type of love Christ is referring to. Jesus demonstrated divine love that can best be described as loyal, steadfast, and unshakable. Jesus prompts us to share this same type of love for our fellow man, allowing it to be our moral compass, dedicating it to the good of others. You will undoubtedly be moved by the revelation of the tenants of love Christ desires us to uphold and live.

“So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. ” — 1 Corinthians 3:7 (NIV). Pastor Nate shares with us what the Bible says about growth in this message. While we may feel we are responsible for our accomplishments all on our own, we would be remiss not to give the credit to God, the omnipotent Creator of the Heavens and the earth, the one - the only one - who can provide the increase. The role roots play in the life and health of a plant is vital to its survival and flourishing. Like the plant, we are cautioned to always be deeply rooted in the word of God for the nourishment and sustaining water we need to survive in this life and get to the promised eternal life. We can be encouraged to know that all we need to persevere through life and even prevent some problems can be found in the word of God. We need simply apply it to our lives liberally.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. ” — Proverbs 27:17 NIV. Based on this familiar verse, Pastor Nate shares this God-inspired, thought-provoking message about how we as individuals benefit by helping others. The central theme and emphasis are on personal integrity and how it behooves us to look after our fellow man, seeking to lift them up rather than trod on them. Selfishness has narrow limits, but a heart filled with generosity and goodwill serves us in many ways. Pastor Nate speaks about how we should always be willing to provide feedback, time, energy, and resources to others in the Body of Christ, singing their praises and offering them a hand to rise up. In doing so, we will naturally receive in-kind benefits in our lives. We should not seek to get but seek to give, and in return, we shall receive.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 NIV Kindness in today’s world that we live in has unfortunately become elusive and even rarely displayed or extended. It is happening; however, by appearance, it is overshadowed by man’s high level of evil, selfishness, and cruel behaviors. God expects us as Christians, who profess to have faith, the mind of Christ, and members of the Body of Christ to elevate the way we appear to others (on the inside), how we talk (with loving-kindness) and how we walk (with Christ). In this thought-provoking message, Pastor Nate takes us through the basic tenants, principles, and values of what it truly means to be a Christian. How we should seek to uphold a higher standard of behavior, humble and with God’s grace, aiming to be an example in a dark and fallen world, allowing God lift to illuminate and lift others in the struggles. In the most basic of terms, our charter is to be kind to others, as we would ourselves.

“You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You.“ - Isaiah 26:7 [AMP] There are times when peace may appear evasive to us, but it seldom is. In a message based on this passage referred to as Another Song of Praise, Pastor Nate shares with us how we can have that perfect peace that is available to us at all times, in all situations. Pastor Nate does not shy away from the truth that we will experience trials in this life. We may face pain, heartache, crisis, trauma, and even life and death. But in keeping our minds staying on God, trusting in Him with all our hearts, no matter the situation, God is more than willing to give us perfect peace. In return, we are to be ambassadors of peace in our walk, seeking to end conflict wherever possible, as that is clear evidence of being a Christian and a member of the Body of Christ.

“Although my father and my mother have forsaken me, yet the Lord will take me up [adopt me as His child]“ - Psalm 27:10 [AMP] This message is intended for all of those who feel rejected, dejected, abandoned, or alone. Pastor Nate shares this encouraging message based on God’s word that He will be there when everyone else has left us alone. Based on a passage written by David, who experienced great turmoil during his life. Some of David’s adversity was his own fault will others were not the fault of his own. Regardless, David painted his faith and conviction in God’s protection, provision, path, and purpose. God, in turn, never turned His back on David, always keeping His face to shine upon him. We should be encouraged to know that even though our earthly parents may be absent from our lives, for any number of reasons, we are never orphans as God has adopted us as one of His own children.

Most commonly known for its use during the benediction, the verses found in the book of Numbers, the 6th chapter are referred to as The Priestly Blessing. 24 “ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; 25 the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; 26 the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26. Pastor Nate delivers an extensive breakdown of these seemingly simple verses throughout this message. He teaches us that these three verses are representative of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. That we are blessed by God, pardoned by Christ’s sacrifice, and provided peace by the Holy Spirit. Pastor Nate addresses the commands and behaviors expected of us to fully benefit from these blessings and remain on the right path.

“3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV  In this pointed and direct message, Pastor Nate addresses the matter of one of the primary reasons for God’s gifts to us. He presents us with the truths of God’s expectation and command of us to share the gifts He has given us with others. God’s gift of comfort, favor, provision, mercy, and grace, is given to us in abundance so that we have plenty to share with others, and we should, accordingly.

“Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires and secret petitions of your heart.” - Psalm 37:4. This sermon is focused on matters of the heart. Namely, aligning our heart with God and protecting it as our hearts are the source from which everything flows. Often the above verse is misunderstood as some type of wishing well. The main point of this sermon is to draw attention to the principle that a heart after God will only contain and want for what God wants for us, which then naturally He will grant the desires that he placed there.

“My dear brothers and sisters, pay attention to what I say. Everyone should be quick to listen. But they should be slow to speak. They should be slow to get angry.” - James 1:19-27 NIrV In this sermon, Pastor Nate addresses the importance of not just reading God’s word and learning from it, but also living according to His word. As believers in the Body of Christ, we have a requirement to live our lives avoiding anger and wrath, being forgiving, patient, and kind. In short, to only read the word and not live it is a fruitless vain effort. We are empires, blessed, and receive God’s favor when we allow His word to lead and direct how we live our lives.

In a compelling sermon, based on the book of Philippians, the 2nd chapter, Pastor Nate shares God’s wisdom and insights around protecting our minds. Philippians 6:5 says: “You should think in the same way Christ Jesus does.” (NIrV). The teachings in this message compel us to be mindful of our thoughts and how they impact our behaviors. It goes on to address being unified in our minds with Christ and living like Christ. The risks are significant, but the rewards of righteous living, despite sacrifices made, are far more important and eternal.

This message is based on Luke, 6:43 that reads: “A good tree doesn’t bear bad fruit. And a bad tree doesn’t bear good fruit.” In it, Pastor Nate talks about how what is in our hearts will eventually surface, be it good or bad. Our actions, behaviors, and efforts all stem from who we are on the inside. In other words, our outward self is a derivative of our inner self. We may be able to fool people, but we in no way fool God - ever! He knows what dwells in our hearts. Pastor Nate encourages us to follow the example of Christ, allowing God to lead our every step that we may bear good fruit for the body of Christ and God’s Kingdom.

From the Book of Psalm 94, this message expresses the terror, frustration, and torment the psalmist who wrote it experienced when being oppressed by wicked leaders. He calls upon God for help in the key verse Psalm 94:19, “I was very worried. But your comfort brought joy to my heart.” (NIrV). Pastor Nate extolls the virtues of leadership in this message by emphasizing the importance of being a God-led leader, a servant leader. Because to do otherwise not only causes affliction to God’s people, it also invites God’s wrath of retribution - wages earned in the way of punishment for leadership wickedness. We are all leaders by our own rights. We would be best served to bear the load of responsibility, executing that function with unwavering and consistent righteousness, the way God intended.

This message is based on the text from the book of 2 Timothy, which is Paul’s letter to Timothy. The critical verse is, “God didn’t give us a spirit that makes us weak and fearful. He gave us a spirit that gives us power and love. It helps us control ourselves.” - 2 Timothy 1:7. Pastor Nate speaks to the truth that God created us in His own image, thereby equipping us with everything we need to live a holy life. He explains how Paul, facing threats to his life, remained steadfast and committed to his faith so that others, through his example, might be led to Christ and also be saved.

The book of Joshua 1:9 states, “Here is what I am commanding you to do. Be strong and brave. Do not be terrified. Do not lose hope. I am the Lord your God. I will be with you everywhere you go.” In this compelling message, Pastor Nate encourages us to look to God’s word for directions, discernment, and wisdom in times of trouble. There we will assuredly find the answer to all that we seek and need with the reassurance that our God will never leave or forsake us. We are not only expected but commanded to trust God for everything, and in doing so, we will not be disappointed!

This message is based on text from the book of Matthew, verse 9:37: “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “The harvest is huge. But there are only a few workers.”” Here, Pastor Nate addresses the need for us to be fervent workers in the body of Christ to help with the plentiful harvest of souls to be won for Christ. Through our actions, behaviors, and temperament, each of us has ample opportunities to lead others to Christ and to a life that is rewarding, fulfilling, and pleasing in God’s sight while here on earth.

Based upon the scripture from the Book of Romans 12, Pastor Nate addresses how we should live for God in our walk with Christ. The critical verse is taken from Romans 12:12 - “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” This message offers a straightforward explanation with examples of how we as Christians should live, both in actions and thoughts, to be pleasing in God’s sight.

In a stirring message about God’s grace, Pastor Nate takes this week’s text from the book of Isaiah, chapter 55:11 “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” (NIV). The main point of this message is to compel us to accept the Lord’s invitation to come to Him, that we may have rest, provisions, peace, nourishment, and a promise of eternal life with our Savior.

This week’s message is based on text taken from Matthew 12:31, “Therefore I say to you, any sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven.” Pastor Nate addresses the matter of sin, our sinful nature as humans, blasphemy, and forgiveness. As we see in God’s word, we are encouraged to read that all one but type of sin is forgiven and that forgiveness is ours just for the asking.

In a message about how God’s wants us to give and pray, Pastor Nate shares with us, from the book of Matthew 6:1 - “Be careful not to do ‘good works’ in front of others. Don’t do them to be seen by others. If you do, your Father in heaven will not reward you”. This message expresses the importance of Glorifying God and refraining from hypocrisy, seeking praise and other worldly temptations that occur when we give and pray.

This message is based on the parable of The Vine and the Branches. Its focus is on the passage from John 15:7 “If you remain joined to me and my words remain in you, ask for anything you wish. And it will be given to you.” Pastor Nate shares God’s word around the importance of being securely attached to the vine to produce the best fruit. The central premise is God’s command to love each other and bear fruit, depending on Him to provide all of our needs and Godly wants.

In a message about faith, Pastor Nate takes this week’s passage from Psalm 27:14, where David wrote, “Wait for the Lord. Be strong and don’t lose hope. Wait for the Lord.” - Psalm 27:14. The theme of this message is that we will face many trials in our walk with Christ. We, however, have a shield of protection and assurance of everlasting life with God, regardless of what we face here on earth, and should have courage, fear no one or any circumstance, and be encouraged as Yahweh God provides our refuge and strongholds.

In a message based on 2 Corinthians 9:8 which states, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work”. (NIV), Pastor Nate teaches on the value and benefit of planting good seeds in other’s lives that will reap a bountiful harvest.

In this message, based on the scripture text coming from Philippians 1:6, which states: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Pastor Nate addresses the topic of never quitting. Through God's word and promises, we hear and gain confidence in knowing that God will undoubtedly finish whatever assignment, purpose, or plan he has for our lives in due time if we believe and do not quit.

In this message, Pastor Nate addresses the subject of fear, based on scripture text from the book of John, verse 27, "I leave my peace with you. I give my peace to you. I do not give it to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be troubled. And do not be afraid." Pastor Nate encourages us to look beyond our trials and challenges, having faith in the God we serve that He is our refuge in times of trouble and provides us the strength we need to make it through any and every challenge we face!

In this message, Pastor Nate cautions us against the spirit of worry, with the text taken from Matthew 6:25 - “I tell you, do not worry. Don’t worry about your life and what you will eat or drink. And don’t worry about your body and what you will wear. Isn’t there more to life than eating? Aren’t there more important things for the body than clothes?”

Worry does not serve us but does harm us. We should trust God to meet all our needs.

In this message, Pastor Nate speaks about how we are to be like Christ to serve others. The text for this message is taken from Matthew 20:28, stating: "Be like the Son of Man. He did not come to be served. Instead, he came to serve others. He came to give his life as the price for setting many people free."

Is this sermon, Pastor Nate expands on the passage found in 1 John 2:15 that says: "Do not love the world or anything in it. If you love the world, love for the Father is not in you."  God compels us to be separate ourselves and our affection from the entanglements of this world, reserving our love for that which is ordained by God.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10 NIV  

In this message, Pastor Nate shares insights from God's word about the gift(s) every believer has been given and the importance of sharing those gifts with others.

In this message, Pastor Nate shares God's word based on the scriptures found in James 2:1-5.  This passage in James addresses how we should treat everyone the same, refusing to judge, criticize, or show favoritism simply because we believe someone is rich or poor.

The key verse comes from James 2:5: (NIrV) - "I have chosen the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of My kingdom."

In this message, Pastor Nate shares the word of God taken from the passages of Philippians 2:1-5. The theme of this message is the not-so-secret pathway to peace and unity when we walk with and think like Christ