Tom Mathew

It is critical for us to recognize the importance of living in community and relationship with others. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” As you develop new friendships and build on existing ones, you counter the new norm and bridge the gap of disconnectedness in our culture. You never know who God has waiting in your path to encourage you or be encouraged by you.

Posted on 2/26/18

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” The holiday season is in full swing and Christmas is right around the corner. Bright colors of red and green are on display, the weather is growing colder, and all your favorite Christmas tunes are playing everywhere you go. There’s no question Christmas is the most fun time of the year!  However, according to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people report increased stress levels during this season.  With all the hustle and bustle that comes with Christmas, it’s so easy for the festivities to overshadow what is truly important. However, there are a few ways to counteract this and intentionally focus on what matters most this Christmas.

Posted on 12/14/17

Convictions are not just mere opinions, but they are firm beliefs that define who we are. They help determine parameters that in turn charts a course for our lives. When it comes to convictions, the old saying is true – if you don’t stand for anything, then you will fall for everything. Therefore, it is critical that we give careful attention to what is truly important to us and solidify our non-negotiable values.

Posted on 10/10/17

Pride takes root in all of us in different ways. For some, it’s overconfidence in talents or abilities, for others self-supremacy over peers, or the need to always be right. Regardless of its form, pride is a deadly sin that can easily go undetected in our lives. A simple pat on our back or a “good job” can slowly evolve into so much more. Pride is an elusive enemy. It will always remain no matter how hard we try to kill it. That makes it incredibly important to be putting up our defense constantly.

Posted on 7/27/17

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it” (Joshua 1:8a NIV). Joshua was just installed as the leader of the Israelites. There were multiple things he needed to know – how to lead an army, how to settle the land, how to govern the people, but the most important thing he needed to know as the leader, was Scripture. Why? “Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do” (Joshua 1:8b NIV). When Joshua meditated on the Word, when his mind was continually fixed on it – it unleashed God’s favor on his life, and the people he was leading, in a supernatural way.

Posted on 6/01/17

The writer of Hebrews had this plea for us in Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” This writer understood thousands of years ago, what is still true today, relationships are integral for humanity to thrive. It serves as an avenue to give and receive encouragement.

Posted on 1/27/17

With the New Year approaching rapidly, statistics say that about half of American’s will make a New Year’s resolution. If you have decided you want to read your Bible more this year, and I hope that you have, then it’s best to start with a plan. For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of Bible reading plans for you to choose from.

Posted on 12/29/16

According to one survey, almost four in five motorists admits to driving over the speed limit regularly. In fact, if you are between the ages of 18-39, you are over 70% more likely to speed. Another study shows that speeding doesn’t save much time. For instance, if you’re traveling a distance of 15 miles and drive 10 miles over the speed limit, you might arrive only 3-4 minutes faster based on traffic signals. With these numbers, a speeding ticket isn’t’ worth the time saved! Why do we feel the need for speed, and can rushing from one thing to the next result in missing opportunities?

Posted on 11/18/16