The struggles of life often knock us down. We may stagger with spiritual fatigue, inwardly wrestle with self-confidence, and question our devotion to the good fight of faith. But as the count begins, we must remember, “A righteous man may fall seven times and rise up again…” (Proverbs 24:16). We may be down, but we’re not out. We are in for the fight of our lives. Those who have fought before us are cheering us on (cf. Hebrews 12:1). Their exhortations repeat the strategy of success; “I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection…” (1 Corinthians 9:26-27). In the face of affliction and trials the Lord has promised to be with us always (cf. Matthew 28:20). Though the circumstances of the church are challenging, we are confident of the eternal victory in Jesus Christ! “O my God, I trust in you; let me not be ashamed; let not my enemies triumph over me” (Psalm 25:2).
Joshua R. Rodriguez
Minister
The church of Christ
in Fremont, California
is no longer meeting.
Please Consider Nearby Congregations
1
Uptown church of Christ
2
Pleasant View church of Christ
11300 Dublin Canyon Road
Pleasanton, CA 94588
3
Hayward church of Christ
4
Laurel Avenue church of Christ
What is the church of Christ?
The word “church” is from the compound Greek word, ekklesia, found in the Bible. The prefix ek
means “out of,” and the root kaleo
means “to call or summon.” Hence, the “church” is a called out body of people. In ancient Greece it had reference to a select civic group summoned to deliberate upon public welfare. Relative to this, Jesus calls men and women into one body to demonstrate and declare His moral excellence for the betterment of humanity (Matthew 16:18; 1 Peter 2:9).