Finding Strength in Trusting God

FLOYD ROGERS

When life becomes confusing or overwhelming, it’s natural to wonder if God really sees what you’re going through. But the truth is, He cares. He is fully aware of every detail of your situation. Even if you don’t understand why something is happening, God invites you to trust Him through it. Choosing to put your life in His hands doesn’t mean you’ll have all the answers. It means you believe He is able to handle what you can’t.

In difficult times, God may be offering you a chance to experience His strength. This could also be a time for personal growth, a chance to come to know God more closely and understand His ways more deeply. Surrendering your questions and fears can become a step towards a stronger faith.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5

The Call to Encourage Others

AMY TURNER

Every day we may meet someone carrying hidden pain. It can be easy to pass by without noticing, but often their hurt is clear if we take the time to look. A simple question such as, “Can I help you?” or “Are you doing alright?” can open the door for comfort.

God equips His people with spiritual gifts, and one of those is encouragement. Even a short word of reassurance can lift a heavy burden. Offering kindness does not require long speeches, but it does require a willing heart.

When we use the gifts God has given us, we reflect His care for others.

Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you also are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Understanding Christ’s True Mission for the Church

JEFF TURNER

Some believers today debate the meaning of Christ’s final instructions to His followers before His ascension. Some interpret these words as a call to engage in community service projects, while others view them as encouragement for political involvement. But, a careful examination of the biblical text reveals a different purpose entirely.

Consider Matthew 28:19-20. I believe this provides clear direction about the church’s primary responsibility. The command centres on creating followers of Christ among people from every nation. This instruction does not include directives for charitable activities or social programs. Instead, it focuses specifically on spiritual transformation.

The method for fulfilling this commission involves two distinct steps. First, new believers must undergo baptism. This is their public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. This ceremonial act symbolizes their union with Christ’s death and resurrection, marking their entry into the Christian faith.

Second, these new disciples require ongoing instruction in Christian living. This teaching process helps believers understand and apply Christ’s teachings to their daily lives. The focus remains on spiritual growth and character development rather than addressing physical or social needs.
The promise accompanying this mission assures believers of God’s constant presence in their efforts. This partnership with God happens specifically when the work follows the prescribed pattern of gospel proclamation and discipleship training.

This does not mean Christians should ignore those facing hardship or poverty. Rather, it clarifies that the church’s fundamental calling involves transforming souls through the message of salvation. The emphasis lies on spiritual rescue and subsequent growth in faith.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Romans 1:16

Mark Jacoby to Step Away from Justified Quartet After 15 Years

TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

After 15 remarkable years of music and ministry, Mark Jacoby will be stepping away from his role as baritone and co-owner of Justified Quartet at the end of 2025.

A founding member of the group, Mark has been part of Justified Quartet since its beginning in Akron, Michigan. Over the years, his strong voice, steady faith, and leadership have helped shape the group’s sound and purpose.

Justified Quartet is known for its classic Southern Gospel style, blending rich harmonies with messages of hope and faith. Their music reflects a deep commitment to “sharing the Word of Christ through song,” combining professional excellence with heartfelt sincerity. The group’s songs include both traditional hymns and original compositions that celebrate faith, redemption, and service.

In July 2024, Justified Quartet introduced a refreshed lineup, welcoming Anthony Patton (lead) and Tony Goforth (tenor) alongside founding members Caldwell and Jacoby.

Their albums, I Love To Tell (2013), Take A Stand (2019), and How Great the Debt (2022,) are just part of the group’s successes through the years. Each release has been praised by Southern Gospel reviewers for its craftsmanship and spiritual depth.

Mark’s faith, dedication, and friendship have left a lasting mark on Justified Quartet. As he and his wife Deana prepare for the next chapter of their journey, fans and friends are encouraged to pray for them and for the future of Justified Quartet as the group continues its mission in song.

Finding Strength Through Prayer and Faith

FLOYD ROGERS

When challenges arise in life, it is important to remember where you stand. If you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your saviour, you have become a child of God. This means you now have access to His power and His promises. That is your position—your spiritual standing—based not on what you’ve done, but on your relationship with Christ.

In every situation, you have the right to turn to God. You can speak to Him, knowing that He listens and responds. The Bible encourages us in Matthew 7:7: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” God is not distant. He is willing to act on our behalf.

Prayer is not just a ritual. It is a privilege. God pays attention, and He responds because of the relationship we have through Jesus. Holding onto that truth gives us confidence, no matter the difficulty we face.

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name,

John 1:12