First Baptist Church Longview

Why does it feel like we keep addressing symptoms while missing the deeper problem? In 2 Chronicles 15, Reverend LaDarian Brown points to a pattern of turning away from God as the root of disorder. Restoration begins when people return to Him with both trust and obedience. Place God back at the center and let Him bring lasting change.

Could your greatest struggle actually become your greatest influence? In 2 Corinthians 12, Pastor Collin highlights how Paul’s weakness became the place where God’s power was most clearly displayed. What you have endured may become the very way you help others. Offer your story to God and let Him use it for His purposes.

Why do sincere promises to change often fall apart so quickly? Reflecting on Mark 14 and Peter’s failure, Pastor Collin points to a different path: watchfulness and prayer rather than reliance on willpower. Lasting growth comes through consistent time with God. Build habits that keep you connected to Him daily.

Have you been holding onto hurt so long it feels normal? In Matthew 5:7 and 5:9, Pastor Collin shows how mercy and peacemaking grow out of the forgiveness we have already received. Let go of what others owe you and take steps toward reconciliation. Freedom is found in releasing what you’ve been carrying.

Why is it so hard to change, even when you know what’s right? Looking at Romans 12:2 and Matthew 5:6, Pastor Collin explains that transformation comes through renewing the mind rather than relying on willpower. Real change happens as truth replaces false beliefs. Trust God to reshape your thinking and lead you forward.

What happens when hidden guilt continues to weigh you down? Focusing on Matthew 5:8 alongside Hebrews 10, Pastor Collin emphasizes that purity of heart begins with honesty before God. Freedom comes not from self-effort but from confession and drawing near. Take a step toward openness and experience the grace that follows.

Are you carrying more than you were ever meant to handle? Continuing through Matthew 5, Pastor Collin explores how mourning leads to repentance and meekness leads to surrender. Growth happens not by holding tighter, but by releasing control to God. Trust Him with your life and step forward in obedience.

What if the first step toward a flourishing life isn’t trying harder, but admitting you cannot do it on your own? Opening the *Recovery Road* series with Matthew 5:3, Pastor Collin highlights how recognizing our spiritual need positions us to receive God’s grace. True strength begins with surrender, not self-sufficiency. Come honestly before God and receive the help only He can give.

What do you do when life leaves you feeling utterly helpless — lost, imprisoned, sick, or overwhelmed? In Psalm 107, Pastor Collin traces four scenes of desperation, each ending with the same response: people cried out, and God delivered them. His steadfast love meets us not in strength, but in need. Bring your situation to Him today and discover that His love still rescues and restores.

What would matter most if everything familiar in your life suddenly disappeared overnight? Through Psalm 19:14 and a personal story of loss, Pastor Cam Reynolds emphasizes David’s prayer that both our words and inner thoughts would honor God. When everything else falls away, God alone remains our rock and redeemer. Let that reality shape what you value and align your life with what truly matters.

How do you continue to trust and worship God when life feels chaotic, painful, or uncertain? Looking at Psalm 34 alongside David’s journey through 1 Samuel 17–22, Katie Yoder highlights how he chose to seek God even in fear and hardship. A life devoted to pursuing God leads to real encounter, where He meets us in brokenness and draws near. Continue to seek Him with reverence and invite others to e...

What do you do when fear grips you and confidence feels out of reach? Reflecting on Psalm 27, Pastor Collin points to David’s response of running toward God rather than relying on self-generated courage. The greatest defense against fear is not changed circumstances, but closeness to the One who is our light and salvation. Draw near to Him, remain in His presence, and wait with courage, trusting t...

Why do those who ignore God seem to succeed while the faithful struggle? In Psalm 73, Pastor Collin follows Asaph’s honest wrestling with doubt and comparison. His perspective changes when he recognizes that God’s presence, not circumstances, is the greatest good. Bring your questions to God and allow Him to reshape how you see what truly matters.

What does it mean when even faithful men struggle in their roles at home? Reflecting on the lives of historical figures alongside biblical accounts in 2 Samuel 13 and the story of the prodigal son, Pastor Collin highlights how failure does not have the final word. God’s grace is able to restore what has been broken. Wherever you are, take a step toward the Father who continues to pursue you.

Have you ever wondered what makes a church distinct? Looking at 1 Peter 2:5–10 and Romans 6:4, Pastor Collin explains that every believer has direct access to God and that baptism publicly identifies us with Christ’s death and resurrection. Faith is personal, but it is also meant to be expressed openly. If you have trusted in Christ, consider how you will demonstrate that commitment.

What if prayer is about more than getting answers? In Matthew 6, Pastor Collin reflects on the Lord’s Prayer to reveal prayer as an invitation into relationship with the Father. Rather than changing outcomes, prayer shapes our dependence and aligns our will with His. Set aside time to approach God honestly and let surrender become the focus of your conversations with Him.

Do you ever sense a nudge from God that’s easy to ignore? Drawing from Acts 2 and John 14, Pastor Collin shows how God’s presence now dwells within His people through the Spirit. This presence is not distant but active, guiding and empowering believers. Walk in dependence on Him, listen for His voice, and take steps of obedience beyond your comfort zone.

What does it actually look like to be the church in a divided world? In 1 Corinthians 11, Ryan McDonald examines how early believers struggled with selfishness that distorted their community and worship. True community reflects Christ’s sacrificial love through unity and care for one another. Evaluate your attitudes and pursue relationships that embody that kind of love.

Have you ever held a Bible your whole life but still struggled to see how it fits together? Tracing the unity of Scripture, Pastor Collin highlights how its many authors and centuries of writing all point to one story centered in Jesus Christ. Every promise and prophecy ultimately finds fulfillment in Him. Engage Scripture daily, allowing it to deepen not just your understanding but your relations...

Have you ever wondered how to know when to talk about faith with someone? In John 4, Pastor Collin reflects on Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman, showing how He moved toward people in the middle of their circumstances. Because Jesus meets people where they are, we are called to do the same. Pay attention to moments of need and be ready to respond with prayer and care.

Have you ever experienced something so good you couldn’t keep it to yourself? Looking at John 1 and John 4, Pastor Collin follows the pattern of Jesus’ earliest followers as each person, after encountering Him, immediately invited someone else. The focus isn’t on mastering explanations but on sharing an experience. Make simple, intentional invitations a regular part of your life and watch how God...

Why is it that we're grateful someone told us about Jesus, yet hesitant to share Him ourselves? In Acts 4, Pastor Collin highlights Peter and John standing before powerful leaders with boldness rooted not in confidence, but in trust that God was at work. Their courage came from prayer and conviction, not personality. Ask God to strengthen your faith and give you boldness in the moments He has alre...

What do you do when you get the best news of your life — do you keep it to yourself? Drawing from 2 Kings 7, Pastor Collin points to four unlikely messengers who discovered abundance and realized it was meant to be shared. Following Jesus means participating in that same calling — bringing good news to others. Wherever you are, you are positioned to impact someone’s faith; ask God to use your life...