God’s Gift
© Avril van der Merwe

Eternity rang
As God delivered His gift
From heaven’s splendor
To earth’s clay:
Demons trembled
Angels sang
A mother smiled
A baby cried out.

Eternity quaked
As God delivered His gift
From heaven’s mercy
To earth’s cross:
Angels trembled
Demons smiled
The Father turned away
A mother cried out.

Eternity thundered
As God delivered His gift
From earth’s tomb
To heaven’s victory:
A mother trembled
The Father smiled
Angels sang
Demons cried out.

Eternity resounded
As God delivered His gift
From earth’s mortality
To heaven’s glory:
Demons trembled
Angels sang
The Son smiled
Man cried out.

God delivered man
Delivered
His gift.

A Comforting Love Letter from Daddy God
Monica Oliver

One of my all-time favorite reminders in the Bible is God’s love letter, found in Psalm 139.  This chapter takes me on a personal journey of the intricate love and tenderness my Abba Father, Daddy God expresses towards me.  Hold on to your seat and enjoy the ride as we travel together.
__________________________________
Psalm 139 (Read slowly)

1Lord, you know everything there is to know about me.
2You perceive every movement of my heart and soul,
and you understand my every thought before it even enters my mind.
3-4You are so intimately aware of me, Lord.
You read my heart like an open book
and you know all the words I’m about to speak
before I even start a sentence!
You know every step I will take before my journey even begins.
5You’ve gone into my future to prepare the way,
and in kindness, you follow behind me
to spare me from the harm of my past.
You have laid your hand on me!
6 This is just too wonderful, deep, and incomprehensible!
Your understanding of me brings me wonder and strength.
7 Where could I go from your Spirit?
Where could I run and hide from your face?
8 If I go up to heaven, you’re there!
If I go down to the realm of the dead, you’re there too!
9 If I fly with wings into the shining dawn, you’re there!
If I fly into the radiant sunset,  you’re there waiting!
10Wherever I go, your hand will guide me;
your strength will empower me.
11 It’s impossible to disappear from you
or to ask the darkness to hide me,
for your presence is everywhere, bringing light into my night.
12 There is no such thing as darkness with you.
The night, to you, is as bright as the day;
there’s no difference between the two.
13 You formed my innermost being, shaping my delicate inside
and my intricate outside,
and wove them all together in my mother’s womb.
14 I thank you, God, for making me so mysteriously complex!
Everything you do is marvelously breathtaking.
It simply amazes me to think about it!
How thoroughly you know me, Lord!
15 You even formed every bone in my body
when you created me in the secret place;
carefully, skillfully you shaped me from nothing to something.
16 You saw who you created me to be before I became me!
Before I’d ever seen the light of day,
the number of days you planned for me
were already recorded in your book.
17-18 Every single moment you are thinking of me!
How precious and wonderful to consider
that you cherish me constantly in your every thought!
O God, your desires toward me are more
than the grains of sand on every shore!
When I awake each morning, you’re still with me.
19 O God, come and slay these bloodthirsty, murderous men!
For I cry out, “Depart from me, you wicked ones!”
20 See how they blaspheme your sacred name
and lift up themselves against you, but all in vain!
21Lord, can’t you see how I despise those who despise you?
For I grieve when I see them rise up against you.
22 I have nothing but complete hatred and disgust for them.
Your enemies shall be my enemies!
23 God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart.
Examine me through and through;
find out everything that may be hidden within me.
Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.
24 See if there is any path of pain I’m walking on,
and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting way—
the path that brings me back to you. TPT Version

_____________________________

As I read this love letter, I envision resting comfortably on God’s lap and hearing His gentle, tender whisper,” Monica, the apple of My eye, my child, my friend, I indeed know every detail of your life.  I’m aware of every moment.  I fully understand your weighty, anxious thoughts even before they enter your mind. I created the book of Monica, word by word, line by line, paragraph by paragraph, page by page, and chapter by chapter.  “Monica, you realize  I’m better than New York’s Bestselling author!!  I wrote your beautiful story with the best plot in mind.  Wait til you read the end!”  Spoiler alert: You win! (“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Revelation 12:11)

“In the meantime,  let me tell you some nuggets of truth about yourself. As my hand was laid upon Joseph during his many years of imprisonment, so you are safe and secure under the shadow of my wings. (Psalm 91).   Monica, I love numbers. I’ve numbered your days and even the hairs on your head. I think about you all the time.  The next time you go to Golden Garden Beach,  grasp a handful of sand and count each grain one at a time.  According to science, there are 10,000 grains per handful.  Guess what?  I equate my thoughts towards you (yes, you too, precious child reading this blog) as the grains of sand.”

“Let's chat about the darkness  - the times you're not too fond of a complete pitch-black bedroom.  Guess what, in My eyes, dark and light are the same.  I see you and protect you.  Do not invite fear in your bedroom or anywhere else for I AM LOVE and in LOVE there is no fear - I CAST IT AWAY.”

“There is no fear in Love because perfect Love expels all fear.” John 4:18

“Replace my name with “love”.”  “There is no fear in Jesus because perfect Jesus expels all fear.”

“Monica, even if you’ve considered running away, where could you go from My Spirit? Where could you run and hide from My face?
If you go up to heaven, I’m there!
If you go down to the realm of the dead, I’m there too!
If you fly with wings into the shining dawn, I’m there!
If you fly into the radiant sunset,  I’m there waiting!
“Wherever you go, My hand will guide you; My strength will empower You.”
“My dear child,  It’s utterly impossible to disappear from Me!”

My Lord and My God, how could I ever fear, doubt, or question you?
Everything you do is marvelously breathtaking. It simply amazes me to
think about it all!  Help my unbelief, Help me to see myself as You see me.  
In fact, “Search me, Oh God, and know my heart, lead me to the way of everlasting life.”

Mightier Than the Breakers of the Sea
Avril van der Merwe

Photo Credit: Avril van der Merwe

            Don’t you love the ocean with its rhythms and its moods?
Its constant yet shifting sounds, from peaceful susurration to thundering roar both soothe and energize; its ceaseless motion, from rippling rollers to unleashed breakers mesmerize. Each wave is somehow distinct from the last.
Don’t you love to feel its flying spray against your skin; to walk along its shores as its salt water laps gently at your feet, then surprises with a capricious surge that soaks to the knees? You experience the power of its propulsion one moment, and its drag the next.
The sea makes my whole being sing!
I once walked along the beach at Seaside, OR on a winter day when the wind was blowing so hard, that walking into it involved both a full body workout and a free skin exfoliation!  The strength of the wind blew the sand along the beach like a fast-flowing river. The tide was at its peak, and the waves were rushing at the shore, collapsing in a crash, and racing up the width of the beach. Spindrift and spray and spume were flying everywhere, like silly string at a party. Laughter bubbled up in me as I reveled in the abandoned vigor of it all.
“Watch out for logs”. The warning came from the only other person to brave the beach that day. Mighty tree trunks, too heavy for a man to lift, were being strewn about by the waves in an oceanic game of pick-up sticks.
What might there is in the wind and the waves! In fact, the Coast Guard helicopter had to pluck several embattled sailors from the sea that day, who found themselves at its mercy. Mere human strength is rendered puny against the forces of nature.
And yet… the Bible tells us that God not only created all of this by nothing more than His Word, but He also continues to sustain it by the power of that same Word! His Word contains more power than all the forces of nature combined! If wind can cause sand to race and stream along a beach, and waves can toss tree trunks around, oh what power is unleashed when the God who spoke these things into being, sends forth His Word!
On the beach that day, as I thought of the power of the Wind of the Spirit, and the power of God’s Word and God’s voice, inside of me a quiet voice made this observation: “Jesus never worried.”
Jesus, confined to human flesh, experiencing all that a human being experiences, was never anxious. Why? Because He knew He is the Living Word through whom all things were made and by whom all things continue to be sustained. He knew the Father and the Father’s power. And so rather than worrying, He released power through His word: speaking a dangerous storm on the sea to stillness; commanding healing to the centurion’s servant who lay dying at home; calling Jairus’ dead daughter to awake to restored life; summoning Lazarus to leave the tomb and LIVE!
Through Him we have been made sons and daughters of the same Father; through Him we have become co-heirs with Him, inheriting the resources of the Kingdom; through Him, the power of the Living Word is activated on this earth, in and through our lives. It is from THIS position that Jesus says, “Do not worry about anything…”
The power of the Father Creator, the power of the Living Word, is made available to us through Jesus Christ, and no force – natural or unnatural – can stand against that power! Let us declare the power of the God who loves us with unending love, the power of the Living Word, into circumstances before which we stand helpless and the storms that overwhelm – and rest in the might of the One who is:
“Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea – the Lord on high is mighty”! (Ps. 93:4).

Shifting Seasons
Avril van der Merwe

Photo credit: Avril van der Merwe 2021


     “Be glad people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for He has given you the autumn rains because He is faithful. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before.” Joel 2:23.

     A few years ago, a close missionary friend and I set aside a few days for a personal retreat. One lovely fall day, we set out on a walk to find ourselves a quiet spot each, in which to be still and hear what the Lord had to say to us individually.
     I was drawn to a sprawling tree, still heavy with golden fall leaves. Beneath it spread a carpet of leaves that had already fallen. It had rained during the previous night and the ground was wet, but the day was dry and mild, so I spread my rain jacket at the foot of the tree and sat with my back resting against its trunk. This reminded me of Jesus’ disciple Nathanael, of whom Jesus said, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you” (John 1:48). I prayed that Jesus would “see me” under my tree also, because I longed to hear His words to me personally!
     In the hour that followed, God spoke to me clearly in several ways. One of those was to do with the leafy canopy over my head, and the golden carpet of leaves I sat on. I became aware of the faint smell of plant decomposition. When I looked more closely, I saw that underneath the visible golden layer, was a further layer of leaves that had fallen earliest from the tree. These had already turned into brown fragments that would shortly become indistinguishable from the soil on which they rested.
     I am a summer, sunshine girl! The hotter the weather, the better I like it! I love the vibrant color and light of the summer months and often deplore the passing of that season. Cold weather is not my friend, and winter is my least favorite time of year! As much as I love the colors of fall, I mourn the passing of the summer.
     Yet as I sat under my tree on this fall morning, my eyes were opened to the God-given purpose in the changing season: Leaves fall when summer season is over. For a while they look beautiful, but eventually their falling and decomposition seem like a kind of death. Yet those dead leaves are not wasted. Instead, they are absorbed back into the soil to nourish it. Then, replenished with nutrients, this soil supports and nurtures the new, vigorous growth and fruitfulness of the next spring and summer.
     I was overwhelmed with a sense of God urging me not to be sad for what seems like a death from a season that has passed – that nothing has been wasted, but instead the very thing that seems to have “died” will provide nutrients in the soil of life to bring forth new, vigorous growth and even more fruit in the season to come.
     Winter is a time of rest in the natural world. Yet it is not a season of redundancy. Rather it is a necessary period during which plants and seeds are being prepared for the burgeoning life of spring. Without winter’s repose, spring’s vigor would not be possible.
      The same is true in our own lives: When a season in life or ministry has passed, there may come a period during which it seems something has withered, and “nothing is happening”. This is not a time of redundancy, but rather a period of rest and preparation for the abundant life God has purposed for us in the season to come. Instead of mourning, let’s open ourselves to His work deep within us, in the secret places, allowing the Holy Spirit to replenish, renew, reinvigorate, and prepare us for His new, coming season of fruitfulness.
     If we embrace this process and surrender to the Lord in it rather than resist it, surely there will be a time when we will again hear the voice of our Beloved calling, “Arise… and come with Me. See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land” (Song of Solomon 2:10-12).

     

" But the helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you."
John 14:26.

It is so important to hear the voice of God these days. So many other noises fight to crowd out or drown out what God is saying to us. It really takes an effort to just slow down and listen.

Psalms 46:10 tells us to "be still and know that I am God."

That is a difficult thing to do with all of our busyness. We forget that it takes silence to listen. God is still speaking. Can we hear Him? God wants to speak into our daily interactions and He wants to speak guidance and direction to each and every one of his sons and daughters.

So how do we hear God's voice? After all, the Bible tells us that "faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). Yes, God clearly speaks to us through His Holy Word. His Word is a lamp onto our feet and a light to our path. God may also speak through others or through circumstances such as "open doors" or opportunities.

Every way that God communicates with us needs to line up with Scripture. Nothing God says to us will ever refute what is said in the Bible. But sometimes we can be unsure and we don't know how to hear God's voice.

" Some people can be so disoriented to God that when He begins to work around them, they actually become annoyed at the interruption." - HB

Let us draw closer to God so that we can discern His voice in all circumstances. Now, more than ever, we need to hear the voice of God.

LISTEN... BE STILL.

Pastor Derek Forseth

"Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:58

This spring and summer I had the privilege to be part of an incredible experience. My youngest son Aksel (14) played on a team that went undefeated in the regular season. He was picked from from players on two teams in the town of Edmonds to be on the All-Star team. He played pitcher,  shortstop and centerfield.

They went on to win the county championship in a close game against Everett, which was incredibly exciting. Then they went to the state championship tournament. In the second to the last game they were losing 8 to 1 and scored eight runs in one of the last innings to win the game 9-8 and play in the championship. This win was especially sweet since this team from a rival that had eliminated them last year in the state championships in the early rounds.

They ended up losing in the championship game and came one game short of actually playing on ESPN 2. I'm not saying this to promote a baseball team or my son but I, being a pastor, made some keen observations along the way.

Observations:
1. These kids stayed humble and worked very hard on every level.
2. The team never gave up even when they were behind or things didn't look good.
3. Even when they lost certain players to injury they kept finding ways to get the job done.
4. Although they came from many different backgrounds they supported each other and chose to work as a UNITED team.
5. They also received instruction well from their manager and coaches.

Although they came up one game short they far surpassed the expectations of everyone. Anyone could see that they were proud of the second place medals that hung around their necks at the end of the tournament. No team in their age bracket from their town had ever gone that far in a state tournament.

After the tournament was over I found myself reflecting on the church. I looked at it and compared the church to what this team had just accomplished. Some interesting questions came to the forefront of my mind.

Questions:
- Is it possible for us as a church to far surpass the expectations of everyone around us?
- Is it possible for us to persevere and not give up until we see God's will accomplished?
- When some people can't complete the journey will others step up and come alongside those who are fighting "spiritual battles" on the front lines?
- Is it possible for us to stay humble and choose to be selfless rather than selfish?

It is Passion Week! A week that most of us commemorate and celebrate what Jesus did for us some 2,000 years ago.
'No one who remains in Him keeps on sinning..." (1 John 3:6). God's grace through Jesus Christ is beyond description. We are grateful for the price He paid for our salvation and our restoration.

This past Sunday was Palm Sunday. It is interesting to study the palm tree. There are over 3,000 species of palms and one of the most common observations is that in storms they are the one tree that bends but doesn't break. They are created to undergo stress under us and thrive even in difficult climates.

So it is with us. God's grace is sufficient for us to thrive in difficult times and even provide sustenance or fruit for others. My desire as a pastor is that each of us would go deeper like the roots of a palm tree, especially this week. May we determine in our hearts to become all that God has ended us to be. In Ephesians 2:10 it says that we are his workmanship or his masterpiece created to do good things. Let's become all God intended us to be.

Here is just a quick reminder of the activities at our church this week:

Wednesday
- 6:30 p.m. | Documentary on Derek's journey through the valley.

Friday
- 7:00 p.m. | Good Friday service with communion.

Sunday
- 8:45 a.m. | Easter egg hunt for the children.
- 9:00 a.m. | Breakfast for everyone.
- 10:00 a.m. | Easter service with special music included.

May God bless you richly as each of you pursue His presence. Spend time with God alone and bring what you have learned to the greater body of Christ. Let's be a church like the 2nd chapter of Acts.

For the Lamb,
Pastor Derek

"No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62

Several men approached Jesus and said, "I will follow you, but first I must..." The excuses seemed legitimate and the needs they invoked were serious. In each case Jesus called them out because He knew that this was an issue of the heart.

These "followers" of Jesus expressed a desire to verbally come alongside Him. In reality, it was a thought or emotion, upon seeing Jesus, because they had no intention of following up on their claims of loyalty. We also often offer up excuses whether we are young or old.

The sad thing is that most Christians don't realize that God knows our hearts. We often express our desire to move forward and follow the calling on our lives, be it great or small. Yet when it comes down to actually following through we offer excuses which seem rational and legitimate to us.

As believers we often say things like "I can't do that until this gets done," "What about my family or what about my responsibilities?" In a sense it's we often comply or lie. If we really don't have any intention to go through with our claims of following God's Will, then we really shouldn't make the claim of loyalty at any cost.

"What would the world look like if every Christian put aside excuses and followed the Will of God?" 

Once we step into God's will for our lives we should never look back at the things that might distract us, slow us down or cause doubt. We keep our eyes on Jesus the "author and perfecter" of our faith and we move forward striving towards the prize for which He has called us. A true follower does this with a RESOLUTE heart.

If a farmer plowed the fields and looked back everything would be crooked and unpredictable, as far as the outcome. For those who mow their lawns the outcome would seem like the following two pictures. Clearly one is precise while the other is all over the place. One is without purpose the other is very intentional.

Let us follow God's will by stepping into the situations that God has put right in front of us. With each step of obedience God will grant us favor and strength to tackle even larger things.

How to obey:
- Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your conversations and interactions throughout the day.
- Be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. He will guide you and give you everything you need to carry out God's will for your life.
- Ask God for His favor and an anointing to carry out each thing He asks you to do.

1 Corinthians 15:58 "Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

For the Lamb,
Pastor Derek

I'm writing here on Christmas Eve. As a family we are making last minute preparations for our Christmas meal and then we're going to the Christmas service. It is a time of traditions...  Singing carols, lighting candles and sharing glad tidings of great joy.

2 years ago, this week I went into the hospital with a very weak heart.  I felt "off" the week prior, but I didn't realize it was that serious. Surgery followed and then I got E. coli infection. As many people know I have now spent over 140 days in the hospital and this week I just had my 54th procedure. Thankfully it's just routine and my recovery of the heart is complete.  At this point we are just trying to get rid of some fluid buildup behind the pectoral muscles.

My point in bringing this up is that there were many days where fear attacked our family.  There were times where the doctors told us to bring everybody in and possibly say goodbye to me. My sister, who is a nurse, brought a funeral dress out when she came to visit me because the prognosis looked so bleak. But thankfully I can say we all kept the faith and got stronger as a family and church through it.

It has also opened opportunities for me to share with people that would not have listened to me before having gone through the miracle of full heart recovery.  That reminds me, PRAY for the last touches on the documentary they're doing on my story through USA today.  Pray that God would be honored.

Matthew 6:33 reminds us that if we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness then all our needs will be met as well.

If we stay in fear and worry, we can lose hours of sleep. We can have our stomachs twisted in knots. We can find ourselves indecisive as our hearts and emotions take us to places, we shouldn't go.

One of the saddest things I see as a pastor (I've even been there when I was younger) is talking to people who won't make good decisions because they are afraid of changing their current situation, however bad or good it is.  Someone would rather stay "stuck" because it's familiar.

Sure, there are many things that we can't control. We can't control inflation. We can't control people leaving their walk with God or becoming distant with God. We can't control people reinterpreting scripture and theology to fit their own truths. Many times, we can't control sickness or health issues. We've definitely learned a thing or two about that in the last 2 years.

At a critical time in our nation's history FDR said something that is still often quoted. "Let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself..."  Whether you agree with everything he did or not, it was something our nation needed to hear in that moment.  We have to go from retreat to advance he would go on to say.


Fear can have a tight grip on us as individuals or in regions. Even Nations can be misdirected by fear. But shepherds were tending to their flocks by night when Angels visited them. They were afraid.

But the angel of the Lord said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news. That will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.  This will be a sign to you: You will find the baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Luke 2:10-11

My wife and I were discussing something she heard the other day at devotions at work.  Male, firstborn sheep with no mark and without unblemished were set apart to be brought to Jerusalem for temple sacrifices.  What a perfect picture of Jesus becoming our perfect sacrifice. Consecrated and set apart for the sins of all of us.

Mary heard "Fear Not" before baby Jesus was conceived in her womb. Joseph heard "Fear Not" when he was unsure what he should do after hearing the news of Mary's pregnancy. The shepherds heard "Fear Not" when the angels visited them in a mighty battalion and told them to go worship the Christ child.

Can we cast our worries at the feet of Jesus? Are we able to take every thought that sets itself against God captive like it says in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5?

While none of us will be asked to do what Mary and Joseph did, God might take us out of our "comfort zone" as an act of obedience to fulfill His will in us and through us. 

Let's always remember. When God asks us to do something He never sends us alone. He walks before us. He is present with us.  He is our rear guard.  He is always with us...  Emmanuel.

We have no reason to stay in fear because of this reality! Cast all your cares upon Him and be anxious for nothing this Christmas!  Fear Not! Christmas love and blessings!!

Today is Friday.  It's the day after Thanksgiving and I'm waiting in a  room at the hospital for my weekly wash out. It is eerily quiet compared to other days. On a normal Friday it is usually a "beehive of activity."  Today most of the staff is off and most of the patients are home.
I'm finding myself lost in thought. I feel like I should be doing things.  But instead, I'm choosing to just be quiet... It's a good quiet however. The kind of silence that is somehow productive.

Yes, I know there are times to speak up,  without a doubt.  When we face injustice or see others facing injustice, it's time to speak up.  When a vulnerable person needs defending, it's time to speak up.  When it comes to explaining our beliefs as followers of Christ, it is time to speak up. But, listen to this verse.

"For God alone my soul waits in silence, from Him comes my salvation." - Psalm 62:1 ESV

There is a good quiet. It is a discipline that many have forgotten about.  With all the hustle and bustle of activity especially in our seasonal schedules and all of the technology that vies for our attention, it is hard to find moments of quality silence.  Yet finding moments of silence to meditate on the things of the Lord is crucial to the Christian walk.

There are many things to think about that are good for us and having the discipline of silence is ultimately very beneficial.  We can think about the character of God. We can think about His many blessings.  We can meditate on things we are thankful for. We can stop and think about the direction and correction that Scripture gives us.  In reality, the list is endless and it is wise for each of us to cut out time to be constructively silent.

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in your sight, oh Lord, my strength and my Redeemer."  - Psalm 19:14 KJV

Although being silent seems like a passive act, in reality it is NOT.  We are reminded that not only our words but our thoughts are important in God's sight.  So take the time to just be quiet and meditate on the important things. They matter to God and it is important to listen to God to gain proper perspective.  The Lord can speak to us or give us wisdom during our times of silence because we create the space for Him to do so.

We need to always remember the example of Jesus who went away to be alone with His Father whenever He needed instructions, wisdom  or times of refreshing. There is a silence that is good.  We need to make it a part of our  spiritual discipline.

With Thanksgiving in our rear view mirrors and all of the activities of the Christmas season now upon us, let us make time to be silent on a frequent basis. "God help us to trust You and hear from You and spend quality time with you.  For You have given us everything that we have need of and every good gift comes from You."

There is a silence that is good!

"Cast all your anxiety upon Him, for He cares for you." | 1 Peter 5:7

This is a verse that many of us have heard repeatedly. It is also a verse that probably needs to be practiced more in our Christian walk of faith.

Does God Really Care?

We read this verse and ask questions, but we often struggle to believe that God really does Care. I'm in a situation where I could be discouraged right now. When I found out that I was going back to the hospital (where I'm sitting now for a fourth stint) I found myself fighting negative thoughts. We all fight these at some point.

My first thoughts were not wanting to be isolated again. I was also thinking of the  many people who have prayed for me and we (as a family) have prayed very hard for complete healing. While we are most grateful for everybody who has prayed we did not anticipate my having to go back into the hospital again.

As a quick update, the area where I had an infection has been healing up well. I'm wearing what they call a wound vac which creates negative pressure and heals the wounds from within using suction. The wound vacs in the hospital are more industrial strength but need medical supervision. The ones I bring home are more user friendly but less powerful.

The problem with my healing  is different this time. They had to open my sternum again and sever my PEC muscles to try and remove the decommissioned LVAD/pump. The first time (last year) my PECS healed well and there were no major issues in that area. This time my chest muscles are taking longer to adhere and fluid has developed between my ribs and my muscles.

So here I am. I'm thanking God that I have no infection right now and I'm at the hospital and actually feeling really good. But I have had to learn over and over again what Paul is talking about in Philippians 4. What is it that I'm learning? To be content in all circumstances...

When we come across situations or trials that cause anxiety we need to remember that we can cast our cares upon the Lord. Being here in the hospital I find myself feeling content even though I'm away from my family and the church family.

God has already given me opportunities to share about what I do and my faith. So often "little storms"  and "big storms"  are opportunities to let our faith shine. God often speaks through our trials and our failures.

Here are some questions for each of us as believers:

• How are you handling your trials and anxious thoughts?
• Have you learned to be content in all circumstances?
• Have you learned to cast all your cares upon the Lord? 
• Have you reached the point where you fully understand that God cares for you?

God wants our light to shine before others so that He may be glorified. Too often we think that means numbers or a big movement. Yet the Bible is full of narratives where faithfulness was practiced in front of a few.

If you're struggling remember this truth:
"God can do much more with your surrender then you can do with your attempt to be in control." - unknown

Pastor Derek Forseth

We have been given the ability to do something that is absolutely amazing. We can speak life or death to others with our tongue. That might seem impossible to many but the Bible states it clearly.

"The tongue has the power of life and death..."  Proverbs 18:21


Each of us has the ability to build up or tear others down with our words. We can present others in a positive light or we can make others look bad in a sentence or a paragraph. The choice is ours.

The tongue is so powerful. It has caused wars to start and it has brought other countries into peace treaties. It has caused families to fall apart and it has been the impetus for reconciliation for other families. 

We need to ask ourselves, "Would I say what I'm about to say if the person I was talking about was standing next to me? If I'm hearing something derogatory about someone else how do I need to respond?" Gossip and slander do so much to hurt relationships in the body of Christ.

At the end of James chapter one we are reminded that if we cannot keep a tight rein on our tongues then we deceive ourselves and our religion is worthless. There are many references to the power of the tongue in the Old and New testament. Many are found in the book of Proverbs which is wisdom straight from King Solomon.

Our prayer should be, "God help us to build others up, not bring them down." We have been given the incredible ability to speak Life to others. May we honor God in all that we do and may we do it with the words we speak. 

Speak Life!

For the Lamb
Pastor Derek

Has God Forgotten...

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,  His mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning,  great is His faithfulness."  Lamentations 3:22-23

Does it ever feel like God seems to have forgotten your trials and hardships? Things seem to go from bad to worse... One step forward then two steps back.

Maybe all you hear is silence when you pray. The often quoted scripture above is one that has brought me comfort over the years, especially when I have questions and I'm looking for answers.  
I find comfort in the fact that God's love for me is constant.  His mercies are new every day for each of us. We don't get what we really deserve (mercy) and we get get what we don't really deserve (grace).

This last year and a half has been trying for all of us. But God has not forgotten me and He has not forgotten you. After thirty surgeries in two years I'm reminded that God loves me and His mercies are endless to me.

Let's not be like so many who go through each day without God yet when things go wrong they blame God. God is faithful and will always be.  

Pastor Derek

This passage spoke deeply to me today:

Isaiah 43:2 NIV "When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you."

Why do we go through challenges? Maybe loss of income, maybe health issues, maybe loved ones or friends betraying us. Does God give you a deeper understanding or mature you when things are difficult? Or do we fall apart completely when things get difficult? Sure, we can have bad days or maybe even bad days in succession. But at some point we need to turn to Jesus:

- Through the Word
- Through prayer
- Through fellowship

If a loved one sent you letters, emails or social media posts daily but they were ignored, then it would be hard to blame them for being distant or uncaring. God expresses His love for us daily through answered prayers, His Word and correction...

From my hospital room, I challenge everyone who hears this to draw close to God while God draws close to you.

James 4:8 "Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

God sees the end from the beginning and because of that I choose to place my trust in Him.

- God will be with us when we are in over our heads.
- God will be with us when we feel like we are drowning.
- God will not let us be consumed by the fire of the enemy.

These are promises so keep them at the forgetting of your mind.

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth



Why do we go through challenges? Maybe loss of income, maybe health issues, maybe loved ones or friends betraying us.

Does God give you a deeper understanding or mature you when things are difficult? Or do we fall apart completely when things get difficult? Sure, we can have bad days or maybe even bad days in succession. But at some point we need to turn to Jesus:

- through the Word
- through prayer
- through fellowship

If a loved one sent you letters, emails or social media posts daily but they were ignored, then it would be hard to blame them for being distant or uncaring. God expresses His love for us daily through answered prayers, His Word and correction...

From my hospital room I challenge everyone who hears this to draw close to God while God draws close to you.

James 4:8

God sees the end from the beginning and because of that I choose to place my trust in Him.

- God will be with us when we are in over our heads.
- God will be with us when we feel like we are drowning.
- God will not let us be consumed by the fire of the enemy.

These are promises so keep them at the forgetting of your mind.

Blessings,

Pastor Derek Forseth

Well, I didn't think I would be saying this right now but I'm back in the hospital... again. I checked in Thursday morning.

I had been feeling some soreness for several weeks but it wasn't until my scar opened up (small hole the size of a bullet) and the bleeding continued that I knew something was really off.

They ended up finding an infection deep in a cavity below my heart. I had a washout and then they applied a wound VAC. I feel somewhat better already. I will have another washout Monday.

By Monday I should also know what bacteria we are fighting. It could be E.coli or something else. Monday will determine if the treatments are short or longer. 

There is a chance they might have to go in and remove the decommissioned device. We covet your prayers. 

It was difficult to hear the news regarding infection. After I processed and prayed more about it. God encouraged me with this verse in Isaiah 26:3...

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, for they trust in you."

Why am I ready for the fight? Because this time I have a stronger heart, a stronger mind and a deeper faith. God is clearly with me and my family.

It is time for us to be strong in our Faith and filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. To God be the glory get things He has done...

Derek Forseth

Most of you who know my story know that 2020 was NOT a great year for me personally. 104 days in the hospital 65 in ICU and then the pandemic directly hit our family. We've survived but even better than that God has turned things for good.
"All things work together for good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purposes."
Romans 8:28

So many followers of Christ want to see prayers answered and miracles happen in and through their lives. Often we pray for things like healing or reconciliation and pray that it would even happen on our timeline.

But, we must remember that God isn't as interested in our circumstances as much as He is in our character. In other words, God doesn't just want to have a relationship where He is just answering or responding to our many requests. None of us would want that type of relationship in our interactions with others either.

Matthew 5:8 tells us that we will SEE God if our hearts are pure. Meaning we have to become more and more like Christ. When we become more like Christ in our character I believe we will see the natural outflow of miracles and answers to our prayers.

To be like Christ we have to do everything out of love. Christ came not to be served but to serve. He did everything out of love.

"This is my commandment, that you love one another just as I have loved you."
John 15:12

In a time where purity has lost its popularity let us go against the tide and strive for purity, righteousness and learning how to Love like Jesus did. People are looking for answers and Jesus is the answer.

Colossians 1:27 is a great reminder to all who profess faith in Jesus.

"To them God has chosen to make known among the gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is CHRIST IN YOU, the HOPE OF GLORY." 

Let us become more and more like Christ and may we build His kingdom by showing love in all we do while becoming more and more like Christ. Let us strive to have pure hearts rather than just getting our prayers answered, and in doing so we will know the mind of God and see Him and His power in all its fullness.

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth

"My heart and my flesh may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Psalm 73:26

I just checked in to the hospital again a little over a year after I was discharged. Psalm 73:26 was one of my theme verses when I went into the "storm" last year. Currently, I'm seeing old friends and catching up with those who still work here (Swedish Cherry Hill) who treated me last year during my 104 day stay. 

It's different this time. I know what's happening going into the procedure and this is exciting for me and the staff here. While my doctor has done many decommissionings of the heart pump (LVAD) in other locations this is only the second one in Seattle that he has done. 

Needless to say I'm in a small percentage of people who have this outcome. I attribute much of my recovery to the prayers of God's people all around the world that have gone up for me and my family. I'm also grateful for the excellent medical personnel who have treated me and walked me through this. 

I needed a surgeon and I got a good one here in Seattle. More importantly God showed me that He is my strength and my portion always and forever. He went deeper with me while I learned to rely on him even more. I can rely on God in my tribulations and in my triumphs. I can look to Him in good times and bad times. God is my great physician. 

Your situation might not be the same as mine but I encourage you to turn to the One who is faithful and true.  He is our source for all things good. 

As the old song goes, "He will make a way where there seems to be no way. He works in ways we cannot see. He will make a way for me. He will be my guide and hold me closely to his side. He will make a way."

I'm reminded of a chorus that the churches in Kenya sang when we were last there. The song ended with these words.

"Jehovah has the final say!!!"

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth

"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourself fully to the work of the lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

The times we are are capable of shaking a person to the core. Things that many assumed they would never see in their lifetime have come to pass in the last few years. There has been an increase of violence and a decrease in moral standards. 

Many try to make our differences a source of division rather than our strength. Being different from one another is actually an asset rather than a liability if we are unified just like body parts being different yet working together. 

What our families, friends and coworkers need to see is people who are consistent, dedicated and firm in their faith. The above scripture reminds us that we are to let nothing move us. Only the Holy Spirit should move us and that is for the glory of God. 

The most important things we will do here on this Earth are eternal things. Everything invested in temporal gains will come to an end. But the things we did for eternity will last for eternity. So we labor for the Lord with devotion and commitment knowing that eternity is the goal. Whatever we do for the Lord is never wasted. 

This coming week I will enter the hospital again for what I'm praying is my last procedure. God has answered the prayers of many people and I am excited to be only the second person in the Seattle area that my surgeon has decommissioned the lvad pump for. Dr Youssef (see Krista Forseth FB) has done this many times at Duke University and over in England. 

It has been a challenging and remarkable year for all of us and our family went through my hospitalization for 104 days and several of us came down with covid in the fall. But God is faithful and He is the Great Physician. 

This past week I visited with my surgeon and had some pre-op tests run which were required for the upcoming procedure. During one of my tests a technician named Victoria said to herself "God is good." I immediately said yes He is and told her that I was a pastor and begin to tell her the short version of my story. She began to cry and started praising Jesus and then a Holy Spirit inspired prayer meeting broke out in that hospital room. She prayed for me to be healed from head to toe and for joy and peace to be over my family through the blood of Jesus. She prayed that I would be able to speak to multitudes of people about the goodness of God. I prayed for her mother who was hit by a drunk driver and suffered internal organ damage. We also prayed for peace and joy for her family. God places people in our lives at just the right time to encourage us and strengthen us along the journey. 

It is my prayer that God will continue to use the testimony of my healing and near death experience for His glory and honor. May God use your story for His glory and honor. Stay committed to prayer, to His word and to fellowship as scripture says in Hebrews 10:25. 

May God use you to encourage others in their faith. May God use you to encourage others to come to Faith in Jesus Christ as their savior and Lord.



God has the final say!!
Pastor Derek Forseth

That Your Joy May Be Full

In John 15:9-11 we hear the words of Jesus, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete."

Here we are given the the basis or foundation for walking in TRUE joy:
- Remain in Jesus' love.
- Obey Jesus' commands.

Jesus asked us to do exactly as He had done with His Father. It seems simple enough theoretically, but as humans we have a hard time walking this out on a daily basis. Why is it so hard to do what we know is right when we are promised complete JOY as a result of heeding these words? 

Too often we look for Joy through our circumstances or from things that are only temporal. We seek joy in relationships. We seek joy in position or power. We seek Joy in material goods. But complete Joy can only be found by remaining in Jesus' love and obeying His commands. 

We need to fully trust the Lord and come to the realization that Joy is not based on external matters or things. Joy can be experienced in the good times and even the difficult times. Sometimes even the most difficult times of our lives end up bringing us the most Joy. We often realize through trials and testing how faithful God really is. 

The whole world watches as we handle the challenges that come our way. They wonder if our faith is genuine. They wonder if we have something they do not have. They look for answers. "Jesus is the answer for the world today. Beyond Him there's no other. Jesus is the way." - Andre Crouch

If you haven't already; discover His faithfulness, discover His grace, discover His compassion, discover all that God has for you and you will find that your joy will be complete. 

Remain in Jesus' love.
Obey all of His commands. 
That your joy might be full. 

The world needs TRUE Joy. May we find it in Jesus and show others The Way.

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth

These words are found in Luke 24 when the women go to bring spices to the tomb of Jesus. They are shocked to see the tomb empty and then they get the special message that Jesus is alive.

This great moment happened almost 2000 years ago. Things would happen in the following days that would bolster the faith of the true believers that had remained with Jesus. He visited the 12 apostles, the other disciples and 500 believers.

During this time His followers were not only encouraged in their faith but he told them (the 120) to wait in the upper room for a special miracle. They waited for days and somehow they got to the place where they were of One Accord and the Holy Spirit fell upon them and baptized them.

All these events led to the beginning of the Christian church. This week we celebrate everything that Jesus did on our behalf. He endured the cross and it's shame. He became our intermediary and the veil of the Temple was torn in two so that we could enter into the Lord's presence. He became our perfect, once and forever sacrifice; most importantly He rose from the dead.

Now, Jesus sits at the right hand of the father interceding for us. He is not dead! He is very alive! One day He is returning and many of us strongly believe it will be soon.

The many events of the last year (2020-2021) have caused division and strife even within churches. People are arguing over anything and everything. People, even Christians, boldly point their fingers at others and hurl accusations and criticisms. Some have walked away from faith itself which is so troubling at this time. Those scripture says many will fall away from the faith
"The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons." (1 Timothy 4:1 NIV)

This must all break the heart of our Father God who desires that we dwell together in unity and that we not forsake fellowship even as the day of Jesus' return approaches.

My heart's cry is that we all remember that Jesus is alive. None of I should live as if He truly died some 2000 years ago. He's coming for His church. A glorious Church without "spot or wrinkle."

Only the blood shed on the cross makes us righteous. Nothing we do in our own strength or wisdom qualifies us to be in good standing when we stand before our creator. This passion week take time to reflect on everything Jesus has done for you. Let's look at our own lives and with sober judgment and make sure that we are living lives that acknowledge that HE IS ALIVE!!

He is Risen!!

Pastor Derek Forseth

Scared or Prepared?

Our culture has, by and large, turned its back on the Lord. Even the name of Jesus elicits one of two typical reactions... genuine curiosity or outright animosity. Much of today's society has lost a sense of respect and reverence for God.

Many people who once seemingly had a strong relationship with the Lord have departed from their "first love." In Revelation 2:1-7 the message to the church at Ephesus was mostly a commendation. But the message turns somber when these words are spoken in verse 4. 

            "Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love."

In this world, which is experiencing the shaking which is talked about in Hebrews 12:26-29, it's easy to find many people who are running scared. The Bible says in the last day "men's hearts will fail them from fear and expectation of the things coming on the Earth, for the powers of heaven will be shaken." Luke 21:26

As followers of Christ we need not be scared of the things that are coming. These are signs of Jesus' imminent return (birth pangs). Things will get worse but the present trials and tribulations are nothing compared to the eternity that we will spend with our Lord and Savior.

The scriptures often refer to The importance of being prepared. Luke 21:36 remind us to "Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man." 

John 16:13 reminds us also that we need to heed the promptings of the holy Spirit "... for He will tell us the things that are about to come." Discernment is so important in these chaotic and confusing times. The Holy Spirit gives us counsel and guidance to know what is of God and what is not. 

When we are prepared and attentive to the signs that indicate His soon return (Matthew 24) we don't have to walk in fear. Instead we are able to have the assurance that "... we can look up for our redemption draws nigh." Luke 21:28

So as a follower of Christ let's always remind ourselves that being prepared is always better than being scared. One calls us to action while  the other paralyzes us. 

So lift up your heads redemption draws nigh!

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth

Dear friends and family,

We are definitely in uncertain times. Things are being shaken and it appears that tumultuous times are still ahead. We are told in Hebrews 12:26-29 that ALL things will be shaken. But we are also told that things that cannot be shaken will remain.

What the world needs now is Christians that are unshakable in their faith. That doesn't mean that we cannot experience failure. We all fall short of the glory of God, but we need to be followers of Christ who are strengthened and restored by God and God alone. When we do fall short of His glory we need to turn to Him for forgiveness and comfort and mercy.  

David failed miserably (2 Samuel 11-12) but when confronted with his sins by the prophet Nathan he was quick to repent and mourned that he had grieved God who had been so faithful to him.  

David asked God for forgiveness but he didn't stop there. He penned these beautiful words
 "Create in me a pure heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. ¹¹Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. ¹²Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. ¹³Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you." (Psalm 51:10-13 NIV)

We ask the Lord for these things as well:

- Create in me a clean heart
- Renew a right spirit within me
- Cast me not away from your presence
- Restore unto me the joy of your salvation
- Help me to teach transgressors your ways that they may turn to their hearts to God

When we fully understand the importance of being in right relationship with God on a continual basis we will become more effective for God's kingdom. The following quote is so true. 

Quote:
"The funny thing about a heart is a SOFT heart is a STRONG heart, and a HARD heart is a WEAK heart."

One of the greatest joys in my life is to help others find their way back to God. God has restored me when I have fallen short of His glory. He has healed me and He has given me strength to sustain me.

May we be strengthened because we are in right standing with God. May we desire to keep short accounts with God and others. May we pursue forgiveness and restoration in all of our relationships, especially in our relationship with the Lord. 

God help us to be unshakable in our faith so that we can show others your ways and that they may turn to You. Let it be so! 

Pastor Derek

The steps of a man are established by the Lord, And He delights in his way.
Psalm 37:23

It is often that we find ourselves doing things that we never thought we would do. I can recount many moments when I found myself in places that I never thought I would be, doing things I never imagined I would ever do. Those moments of ill-mindedness that, but for the grace of God, would have been my peril.

It is easy, of course, to allow weak moments to stymie our growth and render us empty. One of the great sources of criticism in our own lives can often be our own thinking and analysis. While we should not have a higher estimation of ourselves than we ought, in the same way, we should avoid thinking ourselves into oblivion by obsessing over things that do not add value to us and can be destructive.

“We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ…”
2 Corinthians 10:5

How is it then, that we may come to live a balanced life? What will it take to bring about the kind of thinking that will propel us forward and not leave us lingering in a perpetual ditch of murky water or sinking into quicksand? We indeed must remain continually focus on Christ in our lives and not succumb to the desires of the flesh or our own dispositions.  

Paul reminds us in his letter to the church in Colossae:
"Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."
Colossians 3:1-3

To keep moving forward we must be looking forward and taking steps. There will no doubt be dilemmas and struggles that come up throughout life. Overcoming the quandaries of the mind is not especially easy at the onset, but the more we take thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ and fix our eyes on Christ, the more natural it will become to walk victoriously through Christ. Keep focused on Christ, the things that are above and not the stuff that is temporary here on earth. We have a rich hope in Christ, and He is our living hope as the scriptures remind us (1 Peter 1:3).

Not only do we walk in a new way because of what Christ did for us, but we must also recount that when we decided to follow Christ, we became dead to our old life and now our life is hidden in Christ. Though we face difficulties of various kinds we have reason for hope and courage because we have been raised to life in Christ. We cannot sulk in the shame of our sin, though we must be repentant; we walk with abandon to those things that once gripped us so that we don’t become captives to sin again.

So, does this mean we should just move on and never reflect on the past? No. Moving forward does not mean that we never reflect, in fact, reflection helps us measure how far God has brought us! The Children of Israel were instructed to setup memorials and to celebrate feasts of remembrance to reminisce what God had done for them and to remind them to remain in His ways. It is negative self-reflection that stifles us, it negates the grace that God has shown us and causes us to remain in the prison cell, all the while, Christ has unlocked the door to set us free. We must always remember to: “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 NASB). Let us always keep moving forward, taking new ground! “Let’s not become discouraged in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not become weary” (Galatians 6:9 NASB). 

Does God need us to be great in order for us to be used by Him? While many people have attempted to do great things for God He often chooses those who are "looked over" by society to do great deeds.

The short answer is NO. God doesn't need greatness in order to do great things. He often chooses ordinary people and even people that might appear unqualified to the human eye. But God sees things differently. 1 Samuel 16:7b says "...man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." Good looks inward when our focus is so often on the outward appearance.

When Jesus chose the 12 disciples he chose ordinary  men that most others would deem unfit. But it also says Jesus prayed and sought God before He chose the apostles. God often chose people with flawed character throughout the Old testament and New testament to do miraculous things. God does want our best and we should use our abilities and intellect always to further advance His kingdom. But God can use anyone who is available and has a pure heart.

"For consider your calling, brothers and sisters, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; ²⁷ but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, ²⁸ and the insignificant things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, ²⁹ so that no human may boast before God."
1 Corinthians 1:26-29
 
We are reminded that even though we might not be influential in life or wise by human standards God can you use us to change the world.

Many people pursue fame and acclaim and attempt to do the work of God using human strength and wisdom. In the end we must remember that unless God builds the church we labor in vain.

Let's continually remind ourselves that God uses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise and God chooses the weak things of the world to shame the strong.

I really appreciate the following quote.



"God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called." - unknown

May we all be enthusiastic and deeply committed to carrying out God's will in us and through us. Let us not seek greatness rather let us seek to see Jesus high and lifted up.

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth
Joshua 1:9