Staying Safe in a Snowstorm

Presented at Curwensville Alliance on 1/25/26 by Pastor Steve Shields.

Listen as Pastor Steve goes through Philippians 3:7-14.

Snowdrifts that can get you stuck. A contempt for the familiar. A sense that God Himself is not enough. An avoidance of Biblical teachings that are difficult. An arrogance that closes your mind to teaching and closes your heart.

How does it feel to be stuck in one of these “snowdrifts”? You may be bored. Always wanting something else. A sense that I can fix this myself. A stagnancy in your spiritual life.

Help from the tow truck. Find things to appreciate in your walk with God. Repent of even wondering if God himself is enough. Let God’s Word be your sole authority. Humble yourself.

Sharing Wisdom – A Tricky Task

Presented at Curwensville Alliance on 1/18/26 by Pastor Steve Shields.

Sharing wisdom can be a challenge. It is hard for people to receive wisdom. It’s important to think before we speak. There is something about humankind that resists being given wisdom. Even though it’s challenging, it’s our job to share.

The “Be’s” of sharing wisdom. Be prepared. Be sure you have found Christ. Take time to pray. Look for needs and opportunities. Have a thankful heart. Be clear. Be wise in how we behave, how we respond and in the words we choose.

The four “bases” of sharing . First, God loves us and has plans for us. Second, we’ve done things we are ashamed of. Third, Christ took our guilt and shame to the cross. Home plate, turn away from evil and trust Christ to forgive your sins.

God and God alone creates the opening. Speaks to the heart. Gives you the words. Transforms life.

Suffering Well

Presented at Curwensville Alliance on 1/11/26 by Pastor Steve Shields.

Listen as Pastor Steve speaks on 1 Peter 3:8-17.

How are you doing in the midst of life?

What are the qualities that prepare us for suffering? Friendships that really matter. Caring deeply for others. Brotherly love. Tenderness of heart. Humility.

God sees you. He sees your suffering. He hears your prayers. He confronts the evil.

Doing well in suffering means not letting fear rule the day. Make Christ the centerpiece of your life. Treat people with respect.