There is an undeniable truth that the pastor has ascertained fifty-four years in ministry, forty-nine of them serving as the pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. That spiritual truth is the revelation of the “Is-ness of God.” Hear the Psalmist: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1) There have been medical challenges and character defaming, among the many attacks of the evil one however, our God is faithful. Whatever happens in this life, God is our refuge even in the face of total destruction. He is not merely a temporary retreat: oh, no, he is our eternal refuge and will provide strength in any circumstance. Those times when men will rise up against you, we must remember that “God is greater than man.” (Job 33:12b) You can always call upon Him because: “Gracious is the Lord, and righteousness; yea, our God is merciful.” (Psalm 116:5) Our Heavenly Father is worthy of our praise and worship. Worship is a thankful response to a good and gracious God. The Divine Creator and sustainer of the universe is our God. Know this dear ones: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) Thank God for the “Is-ness” of God. His perpetual presence has been a guiding force for this pastor. “For our God is a consuming fire.” (Hebrew 12:29)
Finally, dear members, “This then is the message which we have heard of Him, and declare onto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5) Amen and Amen.
Pastor J. Amos Jone
