The Beacon
May 2025
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity.” (2 Peter 3:18)
“April showers bring May flowers.” That can happen…and maybe you have seen it take place! The saying originated in the mid-1500’s in England. The line comes from Thomas Tusser’s collection of writings called “A Hundred Good Points of Husbandry.” The quote became a popular saying, symbolizing the idea that difficult times (like a rainy April) can lead to better times (like the flowers of May).
The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 5 about a related “April showers” teaching. He began with, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:1-2) What a blessing, to have the inner peace which those who are worldly so crave. We who have Jesus as Savior know that God’s grace has saved us through faith. We have a joy that is unknown to those who lack eternal hope!
Paul went on to speak about “April showers bringing May flowers.” Actually, he said that “…we rejoice in our sufferings…” (vs. 3) How can that be? And why would believers do so? His follow-up included why – “suffering produces endurance,” ”endurance produces character,” and “character produces hope.” Hope does not disappoint or put us to shame. Paul concluded: “God’s love has been poured into our heart through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Tough times can lead to growth. You probably know about this if you have had God’s love poured into your heart through the Holy Spirit.
Are you wanting to continue to grow in Christ? This summer (June and July), we want to aid in this process by encouraging you to be in a mentoring relationship. Some are already studying God’s Word, praying, and enjoying good fellowship together. It can be a hard, stretching, challenge for some to do this. But endurance, character, and hope can accompany this effort.
Please pray about your involvement as a leader or as someone who would welcome another person coming alongside you in God’s Word. Maybe your “April showers” will bring more than physical flowers into your life this summer.
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity.” (2 Peter 3:18)