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This Month at Connect!
This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next month. Wednesdays throughout June Our Wednesday night classes continue throughout June at 6:00 PM for kids, students, and adults. Encounter Camp | June 7-12 Our students in 5th–12th grades are at Encounter Camp this week. Would you join us in praying for them? Pray that students would grow in their relationship with Jesus, build meaningful friendships, and be encouraged in their faith. Also pray for safe travels and for the leaders investing in them throughout the week. Women on a Mission | June 16 at 6 PM Ladies, you’re invited to join us for Women on a Mission on Monday, June 16 at 6:00 PM. We’ll enjoy a meal together, hear from Karah Delgado, who serves in Spain, and learn how we can support women stepping into new beginnings through a ministry that provides dignity, purpose, and hope. You’ll also have the opportunity to shop for beautiful handmade jewelry created by women in this ministry. Every piece tells a story and helps make a difference in someone’s life. Summer Serve | June & July Again this summer, we're partnering with Russellville schools to help distribute food boxes to families through their summer food distribution program. Connect Church will be serving at Crawford Elementary on Mondays from 4:00–6:00 PM and Tuesdays from 7:30–8:30 AM. It's a simple but meaningful way to love our community and be FOR the River Valley. We'd love for you to join us.Sign Up Now Upcoming Events • VBS - June 21–24 VBS is almost here! This year’s theme takes kids on a totally tubular journey through the Book of Acts as they discover how God’s Spirit worked through the early church and how He still works through His people today. If you have children, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends who would enjoy VBS, we’d love for them to join us. VBS is June 21–24 from 5:30–7:30 PM each evening and is open to children ages 4 years old through 4th grade. We can't wait to spend four fun-filled evenings learning about Jesus together.Learn MoreNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message "The King and Kingdom | Part 7" | Pastor Blaine Rogers In the final chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses one of the most misunderstood teachings in all of Scripture: "Judge not that you be not judged." This passage has become a cultural catchphrase, often used to silence any form of accountability or correction. But what did Jesus really mean when He spoke these words? Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch OnlineSubscribe To Our Podcast Giving Generosity is an act of worship that expresses our gratitude, faith, and love for others. And yours is making an impact here in the River Valley and around the world for the Kingdom as we help people find and follow Jesus.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. Services: Sundays at 10:30 AM 1103 E L Street, Russellville, AR 72801 MDWK: Wednesdays at 6 PM See you soon ☀️
June 8, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
This Month at Connect!
This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family.
From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next month. Wednesdays throughout June Our Wednesday night classes continue throughout June at 6:00 PM for kids, students, and adults. Encounter Camp | June 7-12 Our students in 5th–12th grades are at Encounter Camp this week. Would you join us in praying for them? Pray that students would grow in their relationship with Jesus, build meaningful friendships, and be encouraged in their faith. Also pray for safe travels and for the leaders investing in them throughout the week. Women on a Mission | June 16 at 6 PM Ladies, you’re invited to join us for Women on a Mission on Monday, June 16 at 6:00 PM. We’ll enjoy a meal together, hear from Karah Delgado, who serves in Spain, and learn how we can support women stepping into new beginnings through a ministry that provides dignity, purpose, and hope. You’ll also have the opportunity to shop for beautiful handmade jewelry created by women in this ministry. Every piece tells a story and helps make a difference in someone’s life. Summer Serve | June & July Again this summer, we're partnering with Russellville schools to help distribute food boxes to families through their summer food distribution program. Connect Church will be serving at Crawford Elementary on Mondays from 4:00–6:00 PM and Tuesdays from 7:30–8:30 AM. It's a simple but meaningful way to love our community and be FOR the River Valley. We'd love for you to join us.Sign Up Now Upcoming Events • VBS - June 21–24 VBS is almost here! This year’s theme takes kids on a totally tubular journey through the Book of Acts as they discover how God’s Spirit worked through the early church and how He still works through His people today. If you have children, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends who would enjoy VBS, we’d love for them to join us. VBS is June 21–24 from 5:30–7:30 PM each evening and is open to children ages 4 years old through 4th grade. We can't wait to spend four fun-filled evenings learning about Jesus together.Learn MoreNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message "The King and Kingdom | Part 7"
| Pastor Blaine Rogers In the final chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses one of the most misunderstood teachings in all of Scripture: "Judge not that you be not judged." This passage has become a cultural catchphrase, often used to silence any form of accountability or correction. But what did Jesus really mean when He spoke these words? Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch OnlineSubscribe To Our Podcast Giving Generosity is an act of worship that expresses our gratitude, faith, and love for others. And yours is making an impact here in the River Valley and around the world for the Kingdom as we help people find and follow Jesus.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. Services: Sundays at 10:30 AM
1103 E L Street, Russellville, AR 72801 MDWK: Wednesdays at 6 PM See you soon ☀️
June 8, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sermon Blog
In the final chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses one of the most misunderstood teachings in all of Scripture: "Judge not that you be not judged." This passage has become a cultural catchphrase, often used to silence any form of accountability or correction. But what did Jesus really mean when He spoke these words? The Heart Behind Our Actions Jesus has been painting a picture throughout the Sermon on the Mount of what a transformed kingdom citizen looks like. In Matthew 5, He showed us that true righteousness begins in the heart - murder starts with anger, adultery begins with lust. In Matthew 6, He addressed our motives, asking not just what we do, but why we do it. Now in Matthew 7, Jesus tackles the natural question: What does all this heart transformation look like when we interact with other imperfect people? Where Our Spiritual Tests Really Happen Some of the biggest spiritual tests of your life won't take place in your prayer closet or during devotional time. They'll happen around your dinner table, in your cubicle, on your commute, in your marriage, or even in the hallway at church. The test of who we really are is always revealed in the ordinary friction of living with people who are just as imperfect as we are. Many of us think we're patient until we have kids, humble until someone embarrasses us in public, or forgiving until someone wounds us. Relationships have a way of showing us what we really are, not just what we imagine ourselves to be. What "Judge Not" Really Means Jesus Isn't Abolishing All Judgment When Jesus says "judge not," He's not telling us to stop making distinctions between right and wrong. In fact, later in this same chapter, He tells us to watch out for false teachers - which requires evaluation and discernment. The Greek word for "judge" here is "krino," which simply means to evaluate or assess. It's morally neutral. The Issue Is the Spirit Behind Our Judgment Jesus isn't abolishing judgment; He's purifying the process. The issue isn't whether you can make an assessment of a situation - it's the spirit you carry when you do it. Jesus is addressing our habit of moving through life with a critical eye pointed at everyone else while being remarkably easy on ourselves. The Speck and the Beam: A Ridiculous Picture To make His point, Jesus paints an absurd picture: a man with a tiny speck (the Greek word "carfos" - that barely visible irritation you sometimes get in your eye) being approached by someone wanting to help. But the helper can only get within 10 or 12 feet because he has a "docos" - a structural beam - sticking out of his own eye. Why This Illustration Matters The man with the beam may actually know it's there, but removing it would require humility, repentance, and pain. It's easier to focus on someone else's emergency than deal with your own. The beam guy gets applause for being so "selfless" in helping the speck guy, but his willingness to help reveals something deeper - he's doing it for his own glory, not God's. The Chronological Order of Correction Jesus uses the word "first" (Greek: "proton") - meaning in chronological order. He's not saying the speck doesn't need to be dealt with. He's saying beam guy must deal with his beam first, then he'll be qualified to help speck guy. When you've genuinely stood before God, allowed Him to search your life, and live in complete dependency on Him, you're not rushing to be the hero. You're caring about a brother or sister who's in trouble, asking "What can I do to help you?" rather than "Here's how you should live like me." Knowing When to Speak and When to Stay Silent Dogs and Pigs: Understanding Your Audience In verse 6, Jesus continues His teaching by saying not to give what is holy to dogs or throw pearls before pigs. This isn't Jesus starting a new topic - He's answering the question of when to speak up. First, check your heart (verses 1-5), then discern their heart (verse 6). Just because you're right about something doesn't mean it's the right timing or that you're the right person to address it. The Importance of Discernment There are times when someone is wrong, you are right, your heart is right, but the person you want to correct isn't ready to receive it. Trying to correct someone who doesn't want correcting often makes the situation ten times worse. You might push them further away from the kingdom and become the last person able to minister to them when the Holy Spirit begins to stir.Subscribe To These Posts How to Gain Wisdom for Relationships Jesus gives us the solution in verses 7-11: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you." These verbs are all in present tense - keep on asking, keep on seeking, keep on knocking. This isn't a one-time decision but a lifelong process of seeking God's wisdom for navigating relationships with imperfect people. God loves to give wisdom to those who have His glory in mind. The Golden Rule in Context Jesus concludes this section with what we call the Golden Rule: "Whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them." This wasn't original to Jesus - Rabbi Hillel had taught something similar: "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor." But Jesus moves from negative to positive, from "don't do harm" to "actively do good." If you want credibility with people so you can speak Jesus into their lives, whatever you wish were done for you, do that for other people. Building Trustworthy Community The key question is: What kind of community are you cultivating around yourself? Do you have people you can trust when they tell you that you have a beam in your eye? Do you have a teachable spirit or an "I know it all" spirit? Be with people who have your best interests at heart and God's glory in mind. These relationships take time to develop - you don't want strangers pointing out beams you've been cultivating for years. Life Application This week, begin each morning by praying Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!" Give God permission to invade your comfort and show you who you really are. If you recognize that you have a habit of judging people, bring that before the Father. If you're always putting yourself in the position of judge while everyone else is on trial, acknowledge this pattern. When you're constantly living in this life of prayer - "Lord, search my heart, know my thoughts" - you'll have very little time focused on criticizing others. Ask yourself these questions: Do I approach relationships looking for what's wrong with others or examining my own heart first? When I feel the urge to correct someone, am I doing it for God's glory or my own comfort? What kind of community am I building - one where people feel safe to be honest about their struggles, or one where they feel judged? How would I want someone to approach me if I had a blind spot in my life? The goal isn't to become pushovers who never address sin, but to become people so transformed by grace that when we do need to speak truth, it comes from a heart of humility and love rather than superiority and self-righteousness. What would happen if we committed to spending 20 minutes in the presence of God daily? How different would our lives look? What would our homes look like a year from now? Our community? Let's find out together! With Connect 20, you'll find a new devotion each day. Click below to get started.Connect 20
June 2, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
567 & Student Ministry Update | June2
Students & Parents, Summer is officially here!! We love the summer rhythm in student ministry because it gives students a chance to continue growing in their faith while also having more time to build friendships and create memories together. We have a lot planned for our 5th–12th grade students this summer! We look forward to hanging out with our students tomorrow night at MDWK! Encounter Camp Parent Meeting, June 3rd, 5 pm If you have a student attending Encounter Camp next week, there is a mandatory parent meeting this Wednesday, June 3 at 5:00 PM in the Youth Room. At least one parent is required to attend as we go over expectations, schedules, packing information, and everything you need to know before we leave for camp. One of our primary goals is to get payment complete and medical release forms completed. Please bring a copy of your student’s insurance card with you to the meeting. We are so excited for camp and cannot wait for an incredible week together! If for some reason you have not signed up yet and need to be a last-minute addition, please let me know ASAP by filling out the link below.Register Now Tomorrow is our first MDWK of the summer! We are so excited to spend intentional time with your students, teaching them God's word, and having so much fun! Here's our memory verse for the month of June: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:4, ESV) We don't think we are ready to move to the New Testament books since we only had two MDWK's last month to work on the Old Testament books. So, Here is the catechism for the month of June: What are the books of the Old Testament? This month, our students will be working to memorize all of the Old Testament books, so help them practice at home!Old Testament Books Summer Nights We have made it to Summer Nights! Each year, we create extra opportunities during the summer for students to spend intentional time together and build stronger friendships. This year, we will continue MDWK as usual with teaching and small groups, but we will finish our group time around 7:00 PM and give students the rest of the evening to head outside, play games, and simply enjoy time together. Just to be clear...this is not our way of ending early! In fact, we encourage students to stay a little later if they would like. It’s summer! We want to take advantage of the extra time students have without school the next morning to help them create memories and deepen relationships. We will typically start wrapping things up around 8:00 PM, so if you would like to wait until then to pick up your student, that works great! Here's our memory verse for the month of June: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:4, ESV) Parents, Church Camp holds a wonderful place in my heart! I grew up going to church camp and have wonderful memories of my time on the grounds of Camp Beaverfork in Conway, Arkansas. I bet you have great memories of summer camp too! It turns out that summer camp is actually a signfiicant contributor to your child's formation...especially in the midst of the technological age. In the book, The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt discusses how one of the greatest needs for this generation is time away from the constant noise of the digital world and more opportunities for real-world connection. One example he highlights is the value of summer camp. It is an environment where students step away from screens, build friendships face-to-face, try new things, and grow through shared experiences. As followers of Jesus, we believe camp provides something even greater: space for students to remove distractions and focus on their relationship with Christ. For one week, students are surrounded by worship, Scripture, prayer, meaningful conversations, and a community of believers encouraging them to take their next step with Jesus. This is also one of the reasons we ask students to step away from their phones during camp. We know this can be difficult (for students and parents!), but our goal is not simply to remove technology; it is to create space for something much better. For one week, students have the opportunity to be fully present with the people around them, build deeper friendships, engage in meaningful conversations, and listen for what God is teaching them without the constant distractions and interruptions of everyday life. Can you be praying for our students over the next several days as we prepare to go to camp? Pray specifically for our leaders as they sacrifice their time to serve at camp. Pray for our students to prepare their hearts for what God will be teaching them next week! I look forward to seeing you at the Parent Meeting tomorrow night! Blessings, Trevor Holden 501-593-7227 trevor@myconnectchurch.ccCulture Translator
June 2, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Family & Kids Ministry Update | June 2
Hey Church Family! We had an awesome time at Party in the Park! The rain didn't stop us and we handed out tons of food. Thanks for being there and for being part of our community. I encourage you to be here this Wednesday as we begin our summer Wednesday nights. Connect Kids (elementary) has some great changes in store for the summer. Make sure to get your kids here so they can participate and grow in their walk with Jesus! It all starts at 6:00. Reminder: We will NOT have a meal during the summer. Upcoming Dates June 19 — VBS Decorating Night June 21–24 — TOTALLY 80’s VBS — 5:30 PM
Sign up to serve or pre-register children HERE! Pastor Bert Thought for the Week MAYBE.
Consider the power of the word maybe.
Instead of immediately assuming the worst, remind yourself that there may be another explanation.
MAYBE it's an emergency.
MAYBE they are having a difficult day.
When someone cuts you off in traffic, instead of getting angry, ask yourself, "MAYBE they are late for work."
Giving people the benefit of the doubt helps us respond with patience, kindness, and grace. As followers of Jesus, we are called to show others the same grace He has shown us. June Memory Verse When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3 Vacation Bible School | June 21-24 Bust out your cassette player and cassettes; we are stepping back into the 80s! Mark your calendar for Vacation Bible School! It's an incredible time to invite friends and families who aren't usually part of our church. Use the link below to find out more information, register your child, or sign up to serve. We hope to see you there!Register Here Connect Kids Sunday Recap! This Sunday in Bible Study, Elementary students learned about the power of the tongue! Keep your tongue from evil. Psalm 34:13
June 1, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Men's Ministry Update
More Than a Season of Rest Summer has a way of changing our rhythms. School schedules pause, vacations fill the calendar, and life often feels a little less structured. While summer can be a great time to slow down and recharge, it's also a great opportunity to look around and ask a simple question: Who can I serve? At Connect Church, one of the ways we help people find and follow Jesus is through our Prayer & Care Ministry. When needs arise—whether within our church family or throughout the River Valley—we want to respond with the love of Christ in practical and meaningful ways. Sometimes that means helping with a project around someone's home. Sometimes it's delivering a meal, making a phone call, visiting someone who is hurting, praying with a family, helping during a crisis, or simply showing up when someone needs encouragement. The needs vary, but so do the gifts, skills, and experiences God has given each of us. As men, we often want to help, we just don't always know where to start. Prayer & Care provides opportunities to put our faith into action and be the hands and feet of Jesus right here in our community. You don't need special training. You don't need to have all the answers. You simply need a willingness to serve. This summer, consider how God might use your time, skills, and availability to make a difference in someone's life. Whether you can swing a hammer, move furniture, make a phone call, pray with someone, or offer a listening ear, there is a place for you to serve. The church is strongest when we care for one another, and our community is impacted when we show the love of Jesus through tangible acts of service.
Let's be men who don't just talk about faith...let's live it. If you'd like to learn more about serving through Prayer & Care, we'd love to help you get connected.Sign Up Here
May 30, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Women's Ministry Update
Women on a Mission Summer has a way of changing our rhythms. School schedules pause, vacations come and go, and life often looks a little different than it does during the rest of the year. While routines may shift, our need for community, encouragement, and spiritual growth remains the same. Women on a Mission is a great opportunity to slow down, connect with other women, and be reminded of how God is at work both here and around the world. On June 16th at 6 PM, we'll share a meal, hear from Karah Delgado serving in Spain, and learn how we can support women stepping into new beginnings through a ministry that provides dignity, purpose, and hope. Women from churches across our association throughout the River Valley will also be joining us, making this a wonderful opportunity to build relationships, encourage one another, and celebrate what God is doing through His Church. You'll also have the opportunity to shop for handmade jewelry created by women in this co-op. Each piece tells a story and makes a difference. Whether you've attended a Women’s Event in the past or this would be your first time attending, we'd love for you to join us for an evening of fellowship, encouragement, and a glimpse of what God is doing through His people.What's Happening this Month at Connect Church!
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June 8, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
This Month at Connect!
This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family.
From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next month. Wednesdays throughout June Our Wednesday night classes continue throughout June at 6:00 PM for kids, students, and adults. Encounter Camp | June 7-12 Our students in 5th–12th grades are at Encounter Camp this week. Would you join us in praying for them? Pray that students would grow in their relationship with Jesus, build meaningful friendships, and be encouraged in their faith. Also pray for safe travels and for the leaders investing in them throughout the week. Women on a Mission | June 16 at 6 PM Ladies, you’re invited to join us for Women on a Mission on Monday, June 16 at 6:00 PM. We’ll enjoy a meal together, hear from Karah Delgado, who serves in Spain, and learn how we can support women stepping into new beginnings through a ministry that provides dignity, purpose, and hope. You’ll also have the opportunity to shop for beautiful handmade jewelry created by women in this ministry. Every piece tells a story and helps make a difference in someone’s life. Summer Serve | June & July Again this summer, we're partnering with Russellville schools to help distribute food boxes to families through their summer food distribution program. Connect Church will be serving at Crawford Elementary on Mondays from 4:00–6:00 PM and Tuesdays from 7:30–8:30 AM. It's a simple but meaningful way to love our community and be FOR the River Valley. We'd love for you to join us.Sign Up Now Upcoming Events • VBS - June 21–24 VBS is almost here! This year’s theme takes kids on a totally tubular journey through the Book of Acts as they discover how God’s Spirit worked through the early church and how He still works through His people today. If you have children, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends who would enjoy VBS, we’d love for them to join us. VBS is June 21–24 from 5:30–7:30 PM each evening and is open to children ages 4 years old through 4th grade. We can't wait to spend four fun-filled evenings learning about Jesus together.Learn MoreNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message "The King and Kingdom | Part 7"
| Pastor Blaine Rogers In the final chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses one of the most misunderstood teachings in all of Scripture: "Judge not that you be not judged." This passage has become a cultural catchphrase, often used to silence any form of accountability or correction. But what did Jesus really mean when He spoke these words? Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch OnlineSubscribe To Our Podcast Giving Generosity is an act of worship that expresses our gratitude, faith, and love for others. And yours is making an impact here in the River Valley and around the world for the Kingdom as we help people find and follow Jesus.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. Services: Sundays at 10:30 AM
1103 E L Street, Russellville, AR 72801 MDWK: Wednesdays at 6 PM See you soon ☀️
June 8, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sermon Blog
In the final chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses one of the most misunderstood teachings in all of Scripture: "Judge not that you be not judged." This passage has become a cultural catchphrase, often used to silence any form of accountability or correction. But what did Jesus really mean when He spoke these words? The Heart Behind Our Actions Jesus has been painting a picture throughout the Sermon on the Mount of what a transformed kingdom citizen looks like. In Matthew 5, He showed us that true righteousness begins in the heart - murder starts with anger, adultery begins with lust. In Matthew 6, He addressed our motives, asking not just what we do, but why we do it. Now in Matthew 7, Jesus tackles the natural question: What does all this heart transformation look like when we interact with other imperfect people? Where Our Spiritual Tests Really Happen Some of the biggest spiritual tests of your life won't take place in your prayer closet or during devotional time. They'll happen around your dinner table, in your cubicle, on your commute, in your marriage, or even in the hallway at church. The test of who we really are is always revealed in the ordinary friction of living with people who are just as imperfect as we are. Many of us think we're patient until we have kids, humble until someone embarrasses us in public, or forgiving until someone wounds us. Relationships have a way of showing us what we really are, not just what we imagine ourselves to be. What "Judge Not" Really Means Jesus Isn't Abolishing All Judgment When Jesus says "judge not," He's not telling us to stop making distinctions between right and wrong. In fact, later in this same chapter, He tells us to watch out for false teachers - which requires evaluation and discernment. The Greek word for "judge" here is "krino," which simply means to evaluate or assess. It's morally neutral. The Issue Is the Spirit Behind Our Judgment Jesus isn't abolishing judgment; He's purifying the process. The issue isn't whether you can make an assessment of a situation - it's the spirit you carry when you do it. Jesus is addressing our habit of moving through life with a critical eye pointed at everyone else while being remarkably easy on ourselves. The Speck and the Beam: A Ridiculous Picture To make His point, Jesus paints an absurd picture: a man with a tiny speck (the Greek word "carfos" - that barely visible irritation you sometimes get in your eye) being approached by someone wanting to help. But the helper can only get within 10 or 12 feet because he has a "docos" - a structural beam - sticking out of his own eye. Why This Illustration Matters The man with the beam may actually know it's there, but removing it would require humility, repentance, and pain. It's easier to focus on someone else's emergency than deal with your own. The beam guy gets applause for being so "selfless" in helping the speck guy, but his willingness to help reveals something deeper - he's doing it for his own glory, not God's. The Chronological Order of Correction Jesus uses the word "first" (Greek: "proton") - meaning in chronological order. He's not saying the speck doesn't need to be dealt with. He's saying beam guy must deal with his beam first, then he'll be qualified to help speck guy. When you've genuinely stood before God, allowed Him to search your life, and live in complete dependency on Him, you're not rushing to be the hero. You're caring about a brother or sister who's in trouble, asking "What can I do to help you?" rather than "Here's how you should live like me." Knowing When to Speak and When to Stay Silent Dogs and Pigs: Understanding Your Audience In verse 6, Jesus continues His teaching by saying not to give what is holy to dogs or throw pearls before pigs. This isn't Jesus starting a new topic - He's answering the question of when to speak up. First, check your heart (verses 1-5), then discern their heart (verse 6). Just because you're right about something doesn't mean it's the right timing or that you're the right person to address it. The Importance of Discernment There are times when someone is wrong, you are right, your heart is right, but the person you want to correct isn't ready to receive it. Trying to correct someone who doesn't want correcting often makes the situation ten times worse. You might push them further away from the kingdom and become the last person able to minister to them when the Holy Spirit begins to stir.Subscribe To These Posts How to Gain Wisdom for Relationships Jesus gives us the solution in verses 7-11: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you." These verbs are all in present tense - keep on asking, keep on seeking, keep on knocking. This isn't a one-time decision but a lifelong process of seeking God's wisdom for navigating relationships with imperfect people. God loves to give wisdom to those who have His glory in mind. The Golden Rule in Context Jesus concludes this section with what we call the Golden Rule: "Whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them." This wasn't original to Jesus - Rabbi Hillel had taught something similar: "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor." But Jesus moves from negative to positive, from "don't do harm" to "actively do good." If you want credibility with people so you can speak Jesus into their lives, whatever you wish were done for you, do that for other people. Building Trustworthy Community The key question is: What kind of community are you cultivating around yourself? Do you have people you can trust when they tell you that you have a beam in your eye? Do you have a teachable spirit or an "I know it all" spirit? Be with people who have your best interests at heart and God's glory in mind. These relationships take time to develop - you don't want strangers pointing out beams you've been cultivating for years. Life Application This week, begin each morning by praying Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!" Give God permission to invade your comfort and show you who you really are. If you recognize that you have a habit of judging people, bring that before the Father. If you're always putting yourself in the position of judge while everyone else is on trial, acknowledge this pattern. When you're constantly living in this life of prayer - "Lord, search my heart, know my thoughts" - you'll have very little time focused on criticizing others. Ask yourself these questions: Do I approach relationships looking for what's wrong with others or examining my own heart first? When I feel the urge to correct someone, am I doing it for God's glory or my own comfort? What kind of community am I building - one where people feel safe to be honest about their struggles, or one where they feel judged? How would I want someone to approach me if I had a blind spot in my life? The goal isn't to become pushovers who never address sin, but to become people so transformed by grace that when we do need to speak truth, it comes from a heart of humility and love rather than superiority and self-righteousness. What would happen if we committed to spending 20 minutes in the presence of God daily? How different would our lives look? What would our homes look like a year from now? Our community? Let's find out together! With Connect 20, you'll find a new devotion each day. Click below to get started.Connect 20
June 2, 2026 • 5 Minute Read
567 & Student Ministry Update | June2
Students & Parents, Summer is officially here!! We love the summer rhythm in student ministry because it gives students a chance to continue growing in their faith while also having more time to build friendships and create memories together. We have a lot planned for our 5th–12th grade students this summer! We look forward to hanging out with our students tomorrow night at MDWK! Encounter Camp Parent Meeting, June 3rd, 5 pm If you have a student attending Encounter Camp next week, there is a mandatory parent meeting this Wednesday, June 3 at 5:00 PM in the Youth Room. At least one parent is required to attend as we go over expectations, schedules, packing information, and everything you need to know before we leave for camp. One of our primary goals is to get payment complete and medical release forms completed. Please bring a copy of your student’s insurance card with you to the meeting. We are so excited for camp and cannot wait for an incredible week together! If for some reason you have not signed up yet and need to be a last-minute addition, please let me know ASAP by filling out the link below.Register Now Tomorrow is our first MDWK of the summer! We are so excited to spend intentional time with your students, teaching them God's word, and having so much fun! Here's our memory verse for the month of June: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:4, ESV) We don't think we are ready to move to the New Testament books since we only had two MDWK's last month to work on the Old Testament books. So, Here is the catechism for the month of June: What are the books of the Old Testament? This month, our students will be working to memorize all of the Old Testament books, so help them practice at home!Old Testament Books Summer Nights We have made it to Summer Nights! Each year, we create extra opportunities during the summer for students to spend intentional time together and build stronger friendships. This year, we will continue MDWK as usual with teaching and small groups, but we will finish our group time around 7:00 PM and give students the rest of the evening to head outside, play games, and simply enjoy time together. Just to be clear...this is not our way of ending early! In fact, we encourage students to stay a little later if they would like. It’s summer! We want to take advantage of the extra time students have without school the next morning to help them create memories and deepen relationships. We will typically start wrapping things up around 8:00 PM, so if you would like to wait until then to pick up your student, that works great! Here's our memory verse for the month of June: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:4, ESV) Parents, Church Camp holds a wonderful place in my heart! I grew up going to church camp and have wonderful memories of my time on the grounds of Camp Beaverfork in Conway, Arkansas. I bet you have great memories of summer camp too! It turns out that summer camp is actually a signfiicant contributor to your child's formation...especially in the midst of the technological age. In the book, The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt discusses how one of the greatest needs for this generation is time away from the constant noise of the digital world and more opportunities for real-world connection. One example he highlights is the value of summer camp. It is an environment where students step away from screens, build friendships face-to-face, try new things, and grow through shared experiences. As followers of Jesus, we believe camp provides something even greater: space for students to remove distractions and focus on their relationship with Christ. For one week, students are surrounded by worship, Scripture, prayer, meaningful conversations, and a community of believers encouraging them to take their next step with Jesus. This is also one of the reasons we ask students to step away from their phones during camp. We know this can be difficult (for students and parents!), but our goal is not simply to remove technology; it is to create space for something much better. For one week, students have the opportunity to be fully present with the people around them, build deeper friendships, engage in meaningful conversations, and listen for what God is teaching them without the constant distractions and interruptions of everyday life. Can you be praying for our students over the next several days as we prepare to go to camp? Pray specifically for our leaders as they sacrifice their time to serve at camp. Pray for our students to prepare their hearts for what God will be teaching them next week! I look forward to seeing you at the Parent Meeting tomorrow night! Blessings, Trevor Holden 501-593-7227 trevor@myconnectchurch.ccCulture Translator
May 26, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
567 & Student Ministry Update
Encounter Camp, June 7-12 Encounter Camp is now just over a week away! On Friday, we sent out an email containing important information regarding camp expectations, required forms, schedules, and other details. If your student is attending camp, please make sure to read through that email carefully so that you are fully prepared for the week ahead. If for some reason you haven't signed your child up, it is not too late.Register Now Summer MDWK As we move into the summer season, we want to remind families that MDWK continues all summer long! We know that summer schedules can get busy with vacations, sports, and family activities, but when students are in town, we hope they will continue being faithful to gather with their church family each week. Consistency matters in the spiritual formation of your students! We don't consider summer to be a pause from discipleship. It is another opportunity for students to continue building a strong foundation for their faith through Scripture, worship, relationships, and community. We are excited for all that God has ahead this summer and cannot wait to continue growing together! Summer Hangs In Connect Students, our team has intentionally designed our summer MDWK schedule to move more quickly into the lesson and small groups so that we can create space for a “Summer Hang” at the end of each night. Around 7:00 PM, we’ll transition outside for activities like pickleball, ultimate frisbee, kickball, and more. Some weeks, we may have sweet treats and activities for our non-sports crowd. Our goal is to give students additional time to build friendships and enjoy community together during the summer months when they do not have school the next morning. Many students will likely choose to stay and hang out through 8:00 PM, and we absolutely encourage that! We also hope this creates a great opportunity for parents to connect and spend time together while students are outside playing and having fun. We are excited for a summer full of discipleship, laughter, relationships, and memories together! Parents, Below is the link to this week's edition of the Culture Translator! Blessings, Trevor Holden 501-593-7227 trevor@myconnectchurch.ccCulture Translator
June 2, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Family & Kids Ministry Update | June 2
Hey Church Family! We had an awesome time at Party in the Park! The rain didn't stop us and we handed out tons of food. Thanks for being there and for being part of our community. I encourage you to be here this Wednesday as we begin our summer Wednesday nights. Connect Kids (elementary) has some great changes in store for the summer. Make sure to get your kids here so they can participate and grow in their walk with Jesus! It all starts at 6:00. Reminder: We will NOT have a meal during the summer. Upcoming Dates June 19 — VBS Decorating Night June 21–24 — TOTALLY 80’s VBS — 5:30 PM
Sign up to serve or pre-register children HERE! Pastor Bert Thought for the Week MAYBE.
Consider the power of the word maybe.
Instead of immediately assuming the worst, remind yourself that there may be another explanation.
MAYBE it's an emergency.
MAYBE they are having a difficult day.
When someone cuts you off in traffic, instead of getting angry, ask yourself, "MAYBE they are late for work."
Giving people the benefit of the doubt helps us respond with patience, kindness, and grace. As followers of Jesus, we are called to show others the same grace He has shown us. June Memory Verse When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3 Vacation Bible School | June 21-24 Bust out your cassette player and cassettes; we are stepping back into the 80s! Mark your calendar for Vacation Bible School! It's an incredible time to invite friends and families who aren't usually part of our church. Use the link below to find out more information, register your child, or sign up to serve. We hope to see you there!Register Here Connect Kids Sunday Recap! This Sunday in Bible Study, Elementary students learned about the power of the tongue! Keep your tongue from evil. Psalm 34:13
May 25, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Family & Kids Ministry Update
Hey Church Family! Sunday was a great day! We are always excited to see you and love welcoming new families as well! Upcoming Dates June 19 — VBS Decorating Night June 21–24 — TOTALLY 80’s VBS — 5:30 PM
Sign up to serve or pre-register children HERE! Pastor Bert Thought for the Week You have time for what you choose to make time for. May Memory Verse 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. Amen. - 2 Peter 3:18 Vacation Bible School | June 21-24 Bust out your cassette player and cassettes; we are stepping back into the 80s! Mark your calendar for Vacation Bible School! It's an incredible time to invite friends and families who aren't usually part of our church. Use the link below to find out more information, register your child, or sign up to serve. We hope to see you there!Register Here Connect Kids Sunday Recap! Connect Kids continued our study of Paul’s letter to Timothy this week. Paul warned Timothy not to be tricked by false teachers. This is such an important lesson for our kids to hear because there are many false messages in the world today. Often, the world teaches things like, “Do what makes you happy,” or “Do what feels good.” But God calls us to follow His truth instead of our feelings. One of the best ways we can know what is true is by spending time in God’s Word. The Bible helps guide us, teaches us right from wrong, and points us to Jesus. Here are a few great questions to ask your children this week to continue the conversation at home: • How can learning Scripture help you follow and serve God?
• What are some ways you have used Scripture to help you make right choices or keep from being influenced in wrong ways?
May 30, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Women's Ministry Update
Women on a Mission Summer has a way of changing our rhythms. School schedules pause, vacations come and go, and life often looks a little different than it does during the rest of the year. While routines may shift, our need for community, encouragement, and spiritual growth remains the same. Women on a Mission is a great opportunity to slow down, connect with other women, and be reminded of how God is at work both here and around the world. On June 16th at 6 PM, we'll share a meal, hear from Karah Delgado serving in Spain, and learn how we can support women stepping into new beginnings through a ministry that provides dignity, purpose, and hope. Women from churches across our association throughout the River Valley will also be joining us, making this a wonderful opportunity to build relationships, encourage one another, and celebrate what God is doing through His Church. You'll also have the opportunity to shop for handmade jewelry created by women in this co-op. Each piece tells a story and makes a difference. Whether you've attended a Women’s Event in the past or this would be your first time attending, we'd love for you to join us for an evening of fellowship, encouragement, and a glimpse of what God is doing through His people.What's Happening this Month at Connect Church!
