From Pastor Todd

“Back to School.” What do those words stir in your heart? As August arrives, I remember hearing them as a boy—and I must admit, they didn’t always bring comfort or joy. They meant summer was fading and the school year was pressing in.

As I think about the school year now, my mind goes to Scripture. What does the Bible say about knowledge, learning, and wisdom? I am reminded that true knowledge and wisdom come from God alone.

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

This is a wonderful verse for anyone—and especially for the beginning of a school year. James makes a clear point: God will give wisdom to the one who asks, and He gives it liberally.

That word liberally carries the idea of abundance—generously, sincerely, openly, with singleness of intent. God does not give sparingly or grudgingly, but bountifully and wholeheartedly. His wisdom is never handed out in miserly portions. One writer said, “He delights to supply what His children need in order to endure trials rightly and walk in obedience.”

James also includes the word reproach. God will not insult, disgrace, or humiliate the one who comes to Him for wisdom. He desires His children to obey Him, and He gladly equips them to do so.

All this—wisdom, generosity, grace—belongs to the one who simply asks.

Another verse comes to mind:

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The greatest knowledge is to know God through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

So I challenge you today: If you have never trusted Jesus as your Savior, let today be the day. The Gospel is full of wisdom, yet it requires faith—faith to believe that Jesus came to this earth, lived a sinless life, was crucified for the sin of mankind, was buried, and on the third day rose again. He ascended to the right hand of God and lives forever to make intercession for all who put their trust in Him.

As we enter this school year, I encourage our church to pray—pray for students, faculty, staff, and families. Pray for a safe, fruitful, joyful year. And let us remember that all wisdom and knowledge come from Almighty God.

Have a blessed month, and may the Lord watch over our students this year.

In His Grace, Pastor Todd