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From The Publisher

Christian adults carry a sacred responsibility toward children and youth—one that extends far beyond family ties or biological relationships. Scripture makes it clear that caring for the next generation is not optional or limited to parents alone; it is a calling shared by the entire body of Christ. Jesus Himself demonstrated the value of children when He welcomed them, blessed them, and warned sternly against causing them to stumble (Matthew 18:6, Mark 10:14). These passages remind us that how we treat children and young people reflects our obedience to Christ.

First and foremost, Christian adults are called to model authentic faith. Children learn far more from what they see than from what they are told. Our words, attitudes, integrity, and responses to adversity shape how young people understand God and His character. When adults live out faith with humility, consistency, and love, they provide a living example of what it means to follow Christ daily.

Christian adults also have a responsibility to teach and guide. This includes sharing biblical truth, encouraging questions, and helping youth develop a solid spiritual foundation. Whether through Sunday school, youth groups, mentoring, or simple conversations, adults are called to “impress” God’s commands on the hearts of the young (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). Teaching is not about control, but about nurturing wisdom, discernment, and a love for God’s Word.

Equally important is the responsibility to protect. Children and youth must be safeguarded physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Christian adults should create environments where young people feel safe, valued, and heard. This includes standing against abuse, neglect, bullying, and harmful influences, as well as advocating for those who cannot yet advocate for themselves.

Encouragement and affirmation are also vital. Many young people struggle with identity, self-worth, and purpose. Christian adults can speak life, reminding them that they are created in God’s image and have unique gifts and callings. A kind word, patient listening, or steady presence can leave a lasting impact.

Ultimately, Christian adults are stewards of the next generation. Whether related by blood or bound by faith, we are entrusted with helping children and youth grow into faithful, compassionate, and Christ-centered adults. By modeling faith, teaching truth, protecting diligently, and loving unconditionally, we participate in God’s ongoing work of shaping lives that will influence the world for generations to come.

Sunday, January 18 – Rooted in God’s Word

Scripture: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night.” — Psalm 1:2

A strong faith begins with a strong foundation. God’s Word nourishes our souls, anchors us in truth, and guides our daily decisions. When we intentionally spend time in Scripture, we grow spiritually and become firmly rooted, able to withstand life’s challenges. Make God’s Word a daily priority, not just a weekly habit.

Prayer:
Lord, plant my life firmly in Your Word. Help me hunger for Scripture and apply its truth to my daily walk. Amen.

Monday, January 19 – God’s Grace Is Sufficient

Scripture: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9

God’s grace meets us where we are. When we feel inadequate or overwhelmed, His grace fills the gap. Our weaknesses do not disqualify us; they invite God’s power to work more fully in our lives. Trust that His grace is enough for every challenge you face today.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your sufficient grace. Help me rely on Your strength rather than my own. Use my weakness for Your glory. Amen.

Tuesday, January 20 – A Life of Prayer

Scripture: “Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Prayer is not limited to a moment or a place—it is an ongoing conversation with God. When prayer becomes a lifestyle, we remain connected to His presence throughout the day. Through prayer, God shapes our hearts, calms our fears, and strengthens our faith.

Prayer:
Lord, teach me to live a life of prayer. Help me turn every concern and every joy into a conversation with You. Amen.

Wednesday, January 21 – Persevering in Faith

Scripture: “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9

Faithfulness is often tested in seasons of waiting. When results are slow or unseen, it can be tempting to give up. God promises that perseverance will be rewarded in His perfect timing. Continue doing good, trusting that He sees every act of obedience.

Prayer:
God, strengthen me when I feel weary. Help me persevere in faith and trust Your timing in all things. Amen.

Thursday, January 22 – Walking in Love

Scripture: “And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us.” — Ephesians 5:2

Love is the defining mark of a follower of Christ. Jesus calls us to love sacrificially, even when it is difficult. Walking in love requires patience, humility, and grace. When we love as Christ loved, we reflect His character to the world.

Prayer:
Jesus, help me walk in love today. Teach me to show patience, kindness, and grace to everyone I encounter. Amen.

Friday, January 23 – God Is Our Refuge

Scripture: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1

Life’s storms can arrive without warning, but God remains a constant refuge. He offers strength, protection, and peace in times of trouble. When fear or uncertainty arises, run to Him and rest in His presence.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being my refuge and strength. Help me trust You fully when challenges arise. Amen.

Saturday, January 24 – Renewed for the Week Ahead

Scripture: “But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.” — Isaiah 40:31

God invites us to pause, reflect, and be renewed in Him. Waiting on the Lord is not inactivity; it is trusting Him with expectation. As the week ends, allow God to restore your strength and prepare your heart for the days ahead.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, renew my strength as I wait on You. Prepare my heart and mind for the week ahead, and help me walk faithfully in Your ways. Amen.

Food For Thought

The story of David and Goliath, found in 1 Samuel 17, is one of the most powerful examples of courage and faith in the Bible. It takes place during a time of conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines. Goliath, a massive and heavily armed warrior, stood nearly nine feet tall and issued a daily challenge to Israel, mocking God’s people and daring anyone to fight him. For forty days, fear paralyzed the Israelite army—including King Saul. No soldier believed victory was possible against such an overwhelming threat.

David entered this situation not as a trained warrior, but as a young shepherd sent by his father to bring food to his brothers. Unlike the soldiers who focused on Goliath’s size and strength, David focused on God’s faithfulness. He remembered how God had delivered him from lions and bears while tending sheep. Those past experiences built his confidence that the same God would deliver him from the Philistine giant. David’s courage was not rooted in self-confidence, but in unwavering faith that the battle belonged to the Lord.

When David stepped onto the battlefield armed only with a sling and five smooth stones, he demonstrated remarkable trust in God. He refused Saul’s armor, knowing that victory would not come from human protection or weapons, but from obedience and faith. David’s declaration—“the Lord who delivered me…will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine”—reveals the heart of a young person fully reliant on God.

Helping a young person relate to this story today means connecting Goliath to the “giants” they face—fear, bullying, anxiety, peer pressure, academic stress, or family struggles. Adults can guide youth to see that their strength comes not from popularity, physical ability, or social standing, but from trusting God. Encouraging them to remember past moments when God helped them builds confidence for present challenges.

By sharing David’s story, adults can teach young people that faith does not eliminate fear, but it empowers them to move forward despite it. Just as God used a faithful young shepherd to defeat a giant, He can use today’s youth to overcome their own challenges when they trust Him.

This week we are pleased to feature Fellowship Baptist Church of Durham, North Carolina as our Church of the Week! Under the faithful leadership of Dr. Rick Finley, Fellowship Baptist is a vibrant independent Baptist congregation dedicated to worship, discipleship, and community outreach.

Located at 450 Muldee Street in Durham, Fellowship Baptist welcomes individuals and families of all ages to grow deeper in their faith and serve others. With a heart for God's Word and for people, Pastor Finley has guided the church for decades, emphasizing biblical teaching, heartfelt worship, and compassionate ministry.

Worship and Service Times:
• Sunday Connect Groups / Sunday School – 9:30 AM
• Sunday Morning Worship – 10:30 AM
• Sunday Evening Worship – 5:30 PM
• Wednesday Bible Study – 6:30 PM
• Reformers Unanimous Addictions Program – Fridays at 7 PM
These services are also available via livestream for those unable to attend in person.

Fellowship Baptist offers a wide range of ministries designed to help people connect, grow, and serve:

• Children’s Ministry — Provides age-appropriate Bible teaching, nursery care, and fun learning environments to help children build a strong foundation in Christ.

• Youth Ministry — A Christ-centered space for middle and high school students to grow in faith, character, and community.

• Adult Ministries & Connect Groups — Bible study groups that encourage spiritual growth and meaningful relationships through Scripture and fellowship.

• Discipleship Program (“The Next Step”) — Helps new believers understand the Bible, build spiritual habits, and grow in obedience to God.

• Community Outreach & Evangelism — Weekly outreach events, service projects, and evangelistic efforts are central to Fellowship’s mission to share the hope of Jesus in Durham.

• Bus Ministry & Support Services — Free transportation to church services and supportive programs such as Reformers Unanimous for those struggling with addiction.

• Fellowship Baptist Academy & Daycare — A Christian school and daycare that partner with parents to nurture children spiritually, academically, and socially.

Fellowship Baptist Church exists to worship God, build up believers, and share the love of Christ with the Durham community and beyond. To learn more about their ministries or plan your visit, check out their website at www.fbcofdurham.org.

* If you would like to have your church spotlighted then reach out, via email, to believersbulletin004@gmail.com. 

Special Music

Bible Reading Guide

We continue our year long project of reading the entire Bible in its entirety by Thanksgiving 2026. Let's continue on.

Sunday 01/18 - Deuteronomy 32-34 and Psalm 64

Monday 01/19 - Joshua 1-4 and Psalm 65

Tuesday 01/20 - Joshua 5-8 and Psalm 66

Wednesday 01/21 - Joshua 9-12 and Psalm 67

Thursday 01/22 - Joshua 13-21 and Psalm 68

Friday 01/23 - Joshua 22-24 and Psalm 69

Saturday 01/24 - Judges 1-3 and Psalm 70

We would love to hear about your progress. Send results to believersbulletin004@gmail.com

Personal Testimony

Each week will provide an opportunity for a fellow brother or sister to share their personal testimony. This week we are honored to have Ken Ritchey of Durham, NC share with us.

"I am a 49-year-old man who has spent most of his adult life working as a pharmaceutical salesperson. For years, my job required constant travel—five days a week on the road—meeting clients, building relationships, and providing well for my family. My income allowed my wife to stay home and raise our two children, and I believed that was the best way I could love them. Financially, we lacked nothing. Spiritually and emotionally, however, I did not realize what I was losing. I missed school programs, family dinners, milestones, and quiet moments that never come back.

Six years ago, my life changed forever when my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, our son was 18 and preparing for adulthood, and our daughter was 13, full of life and promise. As treatments progressed, I tried to hold everything together, still working, still traveling, still believing that strength meant staying busy. Four years later, our son was married and living in another state, and our daughter was 17 and a high-school senior. One night, on her way home from a school event, her car was struck by a drunk driver. She did not survive.

Nothing can prepare a parent for burying a child. Three weeks after our daughter’s funeral, my wife lost her battle with cancer. In a matter of weeks, my world collapsed. Although I had been active in church most of my life, I lost my trust in God. I attended services, but my heart was angry. I carried resentment, asking how a loving God could allow so much loss.

Recently, my son found a box he had accidentally taken when he moved out years earlier. Inside was a video recorded by my wife shortly after our daughter’s death. In it, she gently reminded me to cherish the years we had together and assured me that she and our daughter would be waiting for me in Heaven. In that moment, the resentment lifted. God’s peace filled a place that had been broken for years. I knew, without doubt, that this separation was temporary.

Today, I have a closer relationship with my son than ever before. He now has a daughter of his own, and being a grandfather is one of the greatest joys of my life. Alongside my sales career, I now serve as a part-time grief counselor, helping others walk through loss with hope. I give thanks to God for His mercy, His timing, and the promise of eternal reunion." - Ken Ritchey

BIBLE TRIVIA

Answers in next week's edition

Which book of the Bible records the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls after the Babylonian exile?
_________________________

What was the sign God gave Noah that He would never again destroy the earth with a flood?

_________________________
Which New Testament writer was a physician by trade?
_________________________

Answers to last week's trivia questions:

Jethro

Galatians

Jephthah

Each week we spotlight a Christian owned business that operates under Christian principles.

This week we’re excited to highlight Durham Rescue Mission Thrift Store in Wake Forest as our Christian Business of the Week! Located at 2109 S Main Street, this thrift store operates as part of the larger ministry of Durham Rescue Mission, a Christ-centered nonprofit dedicated to restoring broken lives and meeting the needs of men, women, and children in the Triangle area.

The Wake Forest store is much more than a place to shop for great deals — it’s a community resource that supports the Mission’s work to provide spiritual, emotional, and practical help to those in need. Customers and donors alike play a vital role in this effort: gently used clothing, furniture, household goods, and other items are accepted and sold, with proceeds helping to fuel programs that impact lives across the region.

At the helm of the Wake Forest location is Manager Norman Bussey. Norman brings not only leadership and retail experience but also a personal testimony of transformation through faith and community support. His journey reflects the Mission’s commitment to renewal through Christ: recognizing his own struggles, he found encouragement and spiritual growth through Bible study, care, and faith-based counseling — experiences that have shaped his heart for service and hospitality in the thrift store environment.

The Wake Forest thrift store is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and closed on Sundays, making it easy for community members to shop, donate, or volunteer.

Whether you’re looking for affordable finds, hoping to donate items for a good cause, or seeking ways to serve alongside others, this store exemplifies Christian stewardship and compassion in the marketplace. To learn more about their mission, donation process, and other locations, visit their website at www.drmthriftstore.org/thrift-store-locations/wake-forest/

If you have a business that you know operates under Christian principles then feel free to nominate them by emailing us at believersbulletin004@gmail.com

Prayer Request

Please keep the following brothers and sisters in your prayers. If you or someone you know is in need of prayer, please submit the names to believersbulletin004@gmail.com.

Phillip Adams

Delma and Joyce Austin

Cathy Baker

Julia Barrett

Molly Barrett

Lucas Bennett

Samuel Briggs

Nathan Brooks

Helen Bunn

Megan Caldwell

Emily Carter

Ryan Chandler

Sarah Collins

Blake Dalton

Sue Dupree

Meredith Ellis

Paige Ellison

Dylan Fletcher

Antoinette Griffin

Abbie Guthrie

Rachel Hammond

Joshua Harding

Olivia Harrington

Zoe Harper

Cole Jennings

Brandon Kent

Matthew Langford

Derek Lawson

Gavin Maddox

Billy Maynard

Meghan Maynard

Tyler Monroe

Glen Morgan

Brandy Osario

Hannah Porter

Claire Preston

Daniel Rivers

Trevor Sinclair

Victoria Sloan

Sue Smith

Natalie Thornton

Abigail Turner

Jenna Wallace

Jason West

Grace Whitfield

Chris Williams

We Are Growing

We are looking to expand the Believer's Bulletin and will be growing the following sections:

Upcoming Events

Family and Faith Resources

Volunteer and Service Opportunities

Classified Marketplace to share information between churches and people in the area.

If you have anything that you would like to list, please forward to believersbulletin004@gmail.com the Wednesday prior to the Sunday that the edition is scheduled to go out.

Final Thoughts

Many Christians attend church faithfully, pray regularly, and read their Bibles, yet never stop to ask themselves a crucial question: Am I merely observing God’s kingdom, or am I actively participating in it? Observers watch from the sidelines—they hear sermons, admire acts of service, and acknowledge God’s work in others’ lives, but they rarely take an active role themselves. Participation, on the other hand, requires engagement, commitment, and a willingness to serve.

God calls every believer to be more than a spectator. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commanded, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” This is not a suggestion for a few; it is a mandate for all who claim Christ. Participating in God’s kingdom can look different for each person. It might mean teaching Sunday School, volunteering at a local shelter, mentoring a young believer, or even sharing your faith in everyday conversations. It might also involve giving of your time, talents, and resources to support ministry and missions. The key is intentional action.

Being an active participant also means cultivating a personal relationship with God that produces spiritual fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us that love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are evidence of a life engaged in God’s work. Observers may admire these qualities in others, but participants embody them in everyday life.

For a believer, participation comes with risk, sacrifice, and effort—but it also brings deep fulfillment. Observers may feel safe, but they miss the joy of seeing lives transformed, families strengthened, and communities blessed. Kingdom work transforms not only those we serve but ourselves.

Ask yourself today: Am I simply watching God at work, or am I joining Him in the work He has called me to do? The invitation is open, the mission is clear, and the rewards—eternal and present—are abundant. Step off the sidelines and become an active participant in God’s kingdom, making a difference for His glory.