February 27, 2022 • Pastor Paul Horstmeyer • Genesis 16:1–10
Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar are a family who breaks each other's hearts. But even in the midst of pain and betrayal, God is giving them a new start. How can God give us a new start even when we struggle and suffer with a broken heart?
Relational Repair Manual
February 20, 2022 • Pastor Paul Horstmeyer • Joshua 24:15
Because every human relationship is between two sinners, offenses will happen. Adam and Eve sinned against God, but also against each other – especially when Adam blames Eve for feeding him some forbidden fruit. Yet, Adam and Eve stayed together. How do we stay together when we hurt or are hurt by each other? The answer lies in how God stays with us – through forgiveness.
Extending Your Warranty
February 13, 2022 • Pastor Paul Horstmeyer • Philippians 2:1–11
What is the secret that people in long-term relationships know? It is simply this: always humbly put the other person first. The first century world was patriarchal. The man was expected to be first and be treated as first. But Priscilla and Aquilla provide a counter-cultural example. While Aquilla, the husband, is at first named first, primacy is quickly given to Priscilla. Being willing to take a secondary role instead of jockeying for position ascribes value to another person and is the secret the relationships that go the distance.
Some Assembly Required
February 6, 2022 • Pastor Paul Horstmeyer • Ruth 1:1–16
There can be certain aspects of relationships that just “happen” to you. For example, a child does not choose their father or mother. But for a relationship to thrive, assembly is required. You must not just feel love, but choose to be committed to another person. The story of Ruth and Naomi is a beautiful example of this intentional choice.
