Finding Peace Through Trust in God

FLOYD ROGERS

Life often brings situations we find hard to understand. Sometimes, painful or disappointing moments make us wonder why God didn’t stop them. It’s natural to feel that way, but we must remember that God has a purpose and a plan for each person’s life. Even when events seem difficult or unfair, God allows them for reasons we may not see right now.

He knows everything — past, present, and future — and His love never fails, no matter what we face. The challenge for many people is letting go of control. It can be tempting to try and manage every part of life on our own. But true peace comes when we trust God’s wisdom, love, and perfect timing.

Instead of forcing our own plans, we are called to surrender and allow God to lead. His way brings lasting hope and guidance. God is always right on time, and His care for us never wavers.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

The Power of Forgiveness: Healing Your Heart

FLOYD ROGERS

When someone harms you, it causes deep pain. But holding onto anger or refusing to forgive causes even more harm to yourself. Forgiveness is not about how you feel in the moment. It is a choice you make, no matter how hurt you are.

You might think, “But I’m still in pain. How can I forgive?” The truth is, forgiving does not mean you will suddenly feel love or joy toward the person who hurt you. It also does not mean you will forget what happened. The key is deciding not to hold their actions against them any longer.

Even if your heart aches and the memories remain, you can still say, “I forgive them. I won’t carry this anger anymore.” This choice brings peace to your spirit and prevents further damage to your own heart. It frees you from the heavy burden of bitterness.

For if you forgive other people for their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

Matthew 6:14

Acting on Compassion: True Love in Action

AMY TURNER

When someone is cold or hungry, kind words alone won’t help them. James 2:16 reminds us that saying “stay warm and well fed” means nothing if we don’t do something to help. It’s easy to offer thoughts and prayers, and while those show we care, they don’t fill stomachs or warm homes. Real love takes real steps.

God gave us the perfect example. He didn’t just feel sorry for our struggles—He came down to us. He taught, He healed, and ultimately, He gave His life. That’s what the gospel is all about: love that acts. We are forever thankful that God didn’t just say He loved us—He proved it.

Look around your life. Is there someone who needs more than just your sympathy? Someone who will one day be grateful you chose to act and not just speak? Let your compassion move your hands and feet.

Little children, let’s not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.

1 John 3:18

Promised Land Quartet Announces Disbandment After 25 Years

JEFF TURNER

After a remarkable 25-year journey in southern gospel music, the Promised Land Quartet has announced they will be concluding their ministry as a traveling and performing group. Founded in January 2000, the group has become a beloved fixture in the gospel community, known for their harmonies, performances, and message of hope.

Gene Hamman, owner and lead singer, shared insight into the decision, reflecting on the group’s legacy and the factors that led to this turning point. “The Promised Land was founded in January of 2000. It’s been a wonderful 25 years. After a lot of prayer and soul searching, we felt the season for Promised Land was coming to an end and we decided to announce that we’re coming off the road. Our last date will be August 31st,” Hamman stated.

Throughout their career, Promised Land Quartet-comprised of Gene Hamman (lead), Joey Wilson (tenor), Aaron Swain (baritone), and Steve Barnett (bass)-toured extensively spreading their message of faith through songs like “Brand New Heart,” “I Love That Music,” and “When the Son Arrives”. Their energetic performances and unique arrangements have left a lasting mark on southern gospel music, earning them radio and chart success, as well as recognition such as a Dove Award consideration in 2008 for their album “Carved in Stone”.

Reflecting on the group’s journey, Hamman expressed gratitude for the unexpected opportunities and blessings that came their way. “God has blessed us with so many wonderful opportunities all over the United States and other countries. When we started 25 years ago, we never dreamed that those opportunities would present themselves and be bestowed upon us. And we’re humbled and grateful,” he said.

Hamman acknowledged the increasing challenges of managing the group alongside his successful secular career. “I have to be honest. For me, I still love to sing. I want to sing. I feel like at 60, I’m singing the best I’ve ever sang in my life. I feel the best I’ve felt but keeping a group on the road and being the owner of the group and you know, I have a secular career. That is thanks to God very successful, it’s just gotten to the point where as I grow older it’s a lot harder for me to keep up with everything,” Hamman explained. “I have great guys that are very helpful and they do as much as they can but still as the owner, there’s so much work behind the scenes that it takes to keep things going. And for me, I’ve just realized that I no longer have the stamina or the tenacity to continue doing that. That’s the 98% reason of why I’ve decided that it’s time to conclude this chapter in my life. And I have no regrets.”

Promised Land Quartet’s final performance is scheduled for August 31.

Understanding Jesus’ Spiritual Presence in Our Lives

FLOYD ROGERS

If someone asked you today where Jesus Christ is, according to the Bible, what would you say? Scripture teaches that Jesus is in heaven, seated at the right hand of God the Father. That is His position now. But where does that leave those who believe in Him? Physically, we remain on earth, living our daily lives. However, there’s a deeper spiritual truth to remember.

The Bible makes it clear that for those who follow Christ, He lives within them, and they are also in Him. This means that wherever Jesus is, believers are united with Him in spirit. Though we walk on earth, our spiritual position is in heaven alongside Christ. Ephesians 2:6 supports this by saying, “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.”

Our identity is not limited to what we see around us. Spiritually, we share in Christ’s heavenly place, and His presence is with us wherever we go.