October 1, 2023

Dear Grace Family and Friends,

I’m writing well in advance of today because we’ve been at the Jubilee Conference with our “Prime Timers.”  I look forward to this week every year.  It’s a time to enjoy good singing and preaching, and I love both.  But the best part is getting to spend quality time outside of Church with my Grace Baptist family.  Fellowship is so important.  I’m grateful that many of you recognize that importance as is evidenced by so many who get to Church early and stay late just to “hang out” with your Church family.  We really are in this thing together.  And we’re stronger together. God’s Word even acknowledges a greater dimension of His Presence when we come together.  Matthew 18:20 says, ^“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”  That doesn’t contradict Matthew 28:20, which says, “…I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”  He will never forsake us.  Yet we sense His nearness to a greater degree when we gather with fellow Believers.  I can’t speak for you, but I want all of Him I can get.  That’s why I place such great emphasis on Church attendance.  I want to be here at every opportunity.  I expect God to do great things every time we come together.  He surely is at Grace Baptist in Evans.  Praise God for the lives that are being changed and the miracles we’re hearing about.  God is willing and able to meet our every need.  All He asks is that we trust Him.  Yet the proof of that trust is our obedience to His plan and purpose.  It’s not easy.  But its “do-able” by the power of God working within us.  We need simply supply the “will to.”  Are you?  If so, keep praying and believing.  God is hearing and answering your prayers.  If not, you’re missing out on a blessing.  Don’t cheat yourself.  Trust in God!  I love you and am honored to be your Pastor. God bless you!

Pastor Bill Hilley