Reflections from the Sacred Desk
This past week, our church family gathered for a powerful evening service that cut straight to the heart of what it means to live a life that honors God. The sanctuary was filled with the spirit of old-fashioned worship, starting with the beautiful truths of “He is So Precious to Me” and “I’d Rather Have Jesus.”
Taking his text from 1 Timothy 6, Pastor Arville Duncan delivered a message that was both a challenge and a comfort. He reminded us that in a world obsessed with “more,” the greatest profit a person can find isn’t in their bank account, but in a heart right with the Lord.
1. The Definition of True Gain
The heart of the message focused on 1 Timothy 6:6: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” Brother Duncan pointed out that many people are discontented today because they lack godliness. He reminded us that if you are saved, you have God living inside of you, and that presence should change your entire outlook.
- It’s Not About Outward Appearances: Dressing right or even tithing doesn’t make one godly. While we ought to dress modestly and give faithfully, true godliness starts on the inside.
- The Fruit of Your Doings: Referencing Isaiah 3:10, Brother Duncan told the righteous, “it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings.” What you do for God—how you handle your money, your time, and your family—creates the “fruit” you live on.
2. The Countenance of a Changed Life
One of the most moving parts of the message was Brother Duncan’s reflection on how salvation changes a person’s very “countenance.”
“The whole countenance of your being changes into a different person and projects God… You take on the expression of Christ.“
He shared memories of witnessing to men at the Ford plant and seeing the literal light of Christ on their faces after they surrendered to the Lord. He challenged us: Can others see Jesus in you?
3. Stewardship and Sacrifice
Brother Duncan looked back on the “sweat and blood” poured into our church—from the early days in a rented, moldy block building to the beautiful 24-acre campground we enjoy today.
- Doing What You Can: We are called to do what we can with what we have.
- Putting Jesus First: Using a personal example, he spoke about the importance of putting God before even family visits. As Jesus said, if we love anything more than Him, we are not worthy to be His disciple.
- The Circle of Giving: God gives to us so we can give back to Him, and the cycle continues. “He gives you to give to him to give back to you… it goes on and on and on.”
4. No Fear of the Future
In a world of “perilous times” and talk of wars, Brother Duncan offered a stirring reminder of the believer’s security.
“Why should you be afraid of anything with God in you? I’m not one bit afraid of the devil… I’ve got Christ in me.”
Because we are the Bride of Christ, we can live in ease and trust that God has everything under control.
Closing Thought: A Sacrifice for the Lord
Brother Duncan challenged us to make small sacrifices daily—perhaps reading ten chapters of the Bible and praying before that first cup of coffee. When we feed the spiritual man before the physical man, we show the Lord He is truly number one.