Illuminate Community Church

2/9/25 - Lessons from the Ant Hill: Wisdom for Work, Finances, and Unity - Proverbs 6 - Pastor Jason Fritz

This week will we explore Proverbs 6, where the wise father addresses three key areas of life: financial wisdom, diligence versus laziness, and the importance of unity. First on his mind is the danger of co-signing unwise financial agreements, likened to a snare that entraps us. The Bible does not condemn debt outright but warns against decisions that jeopardize our financial stability or enable poor stewardship in others. 

Next, we turn to the metaphor of the ant, that little creature modeling diligence and intrinsic motivation. The ant’s unwavering effort in preparation and perseverance teaches us to work hard, seize opportunities, and reject the laziness of the sluggard, who passively reacts to life and suffers the consequences. Work is a gift from God, providing us with purpose and the ability to share with others. As a church, we are called to be like an anthill, each member fulfilling their role to build a thriving, unified community. We must reject excuses that keep us stagnant, allowing God’s transformative power to redefine our future, regardless of our past - no more excuses!

Finally, we will be reminded of the grave danger of those who sow discord within the body of Christ. Unity is central to the church's witness to the world, showing that Jesus alone unites us above all else. God detests division among His people, and we are called to guard against arrogance, deceit, and conflict. Instead, we must strive for harmony, living in alignment with God's will and purpose. As believers, our prayer should not be for comfort but to become a blessing, reflecting the love and sacrifice of Christ in all we do.

2/2/25 - Sweet and Bitter Sexuality - Proverbs 5 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Sex is like fire; in the fireplace it keeps us warm. Outside the fireplace it burns the house down.

 

The Bible is not silent or shy about sex, portraying it as a sacred gift meant to be enjoyed exclusively within the covenant of marriage. Using vivid imagery, the chapter warns against the dangers of sexual immorality, comparing it to honey that turns bitter and ultimately leads to destruction. The passage emphasizes that God's design—one man and one woman in a lifelong, faithful union—not only fosters personal and spiritual well-being but also protects against the destructive consequences of promiscuity, including emotional, physical, and spiritual harm. Wisdom calls believers to treasure intimacy within marriage and resist temptations that appear sweet but lead to ruin.

 

The wise father uses the imagery of springs and streams being "scattered abroad" representing the wastefulness of indulging in relationships outside ofGod’s design. The text also highlights the deceitfulness of sin, urging us to stay far from temptation, whether in the form of adultery, pornography, or emotional infidelity. The consequences of ignoring these warnings are severe—lost honor, wasted years, broken relationships, and spiritual emptiness. However, the passage also points to the beauty of a healthy, God-honoring marriage, where love, passion, and delight are celebrated as blessings from God. 

 

Sin’s consequences are real, but God’s grace is greater. Jesus is a friend to the sexually broken. He offers forgiveness and restoration to those who turn to Him, no matter how far they have strayed. Like the prodigal son who returns to his father, those who repent will find a God who runs to meet them with mercy and compassion. We are being called to something higher - to reject the deceit of sexual sin, embrace God’s design for sexuality, and experience the fullness of His blessing in a life aligned with His wisdom.

1/26/25 - Flourish by Guarding Your Heart - Proverbs 4 - Pastor Jason Fritz

In Proverbs 4, the focus shifts from warnings to encouragement, emphasizing actions that lead to flourishing in life. This chapter reflects the wisdom of a father passing down vital lessons to his sons, which he learned from his father. The passage highlights the importance of pursuing wisdom as the key to living a meaningful and abundant life, aligning with Jesus' promise in John 10:10. True abundance comes not from worldly pursuits but from a life lived in and for Christ. Scottish minister Thomas Chalmers insightfully noted that real change happens when we see Christ as the source of true life, outshining even the most enticing sins.

 

We will delve into the four stages of life: identity, growth, impact, and legacy, each posing unique challenges and opportunities to root oneself in Christ. Identity requires overcoming insecurities by embracing who God created us to be. Growth involves defining success through sanctification rather than worldly measures, while impact focuses on servant leadership amidst growing responsibilities. Legacy calls for finishing well, leaving a lasting testimony ofGod's faithfulness. Above all, our text urges the pursuit of wisdom, which requires humility and the abandonment of preconceived notions shaped by cultural pressures. A life guided by wisdom is likened to a bright, growing light, while rejecting wisdom leads to blindness and destruction.

 

To remain on the path of wisdom, we must protect the heart, the source of life. Practical steps include meditating on God's Word, being mindful of influences, speaking truth, fostering Godly relationships, controlling thoughts, praying for protection, and pursuing purity. The passage concludes with vivid metaphors contrasting the righteous path of light with the wicked path of darkness, underscoring the importance of vigilance in navigating life's journey.

 

We must never forget that life does not flow from the outside in, it flows from the inside out. Guard your heart!

1/19/25 - The Weight of Wealth: Trusting God and Living Generously - Proverbs 3:9–10 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Our text in Proverbs 3 invites us to consider the role of God’s wisdom in navigating the highs and lows of life. Whether in times of plenty or seasons of scarcity, we are called to trust God wholeheartedly, acknowledging Him as our ultimate provider. Solomon’s counsel to honor the Lord with our wealth and the firstfruits of our produce reminds us that money carries a significant weight in revealing our values and affections. The challenge lies in shifting the focus from glorifying ourselves to glorifying God with what we have, using our resources to highlight His greatness and meet the needs of others.

 

Generosity is at the heart of this passage. It’s not about the size of our bank accounts or gifts, but the posture of our hearts. Jesus praised the widow who gave two small coins because her offering came from a place of deep sacrifice and trust. The same is true for us today. God doesn’t need our money—He desires our hearts. And when we choose generosity over greed, we reflect His selfless love to the world. By giving our first and best to Him, we declare that He holds the highest place in our lives and that we trust Him to meet all our needs.

 

As we honor God with our wealth, He promises to bless us—not for our own indulgence, but so we can bless others. God entrusts us with resources to invest in His kingdom, sowing seeds that will bear eternal fruit. This isn’t about hoarding for ourselves here and now; it’s about partnering with Him to make an impact that outlasts us. When we align our finances with His purposes, we bring glory to His name, inspire others to give thanks, and experience the joy of being part of His eternal work. May we live as stewards who honor God with all that He’s given us, trusting Him to provide as we generously give for His glory.

 

1/12/25 - The Path to Shalom: Trusting God's Wisdom - Proverbs 3:1–8 - Pastor Jason Fritz

In this week’s sermon, we draw a contrast between Proverbs chapters 2 and 3. While chapter 2 issues a warning to avoid the path of the wicked, chapter 3 takes a positive approach, teaching how to live a life of shalom—marked by peace, success, and refreshment. Solomon's fatherly counsel begins with the words "my son" and links wisdom with tangible blessings, urging us to guard our hearts against cultural ideologies, such as the popular mantra "live your truth," which opposes the biblical foundation of truth found in Jesus Christ. Solomon emphasizes the need to reject worldly loves and instead pursue the steadfast love and faithfulness of God. This provides lasting contentment within us and visible expressions of God’s character through us.

 

True Shalom arises from aligning one’s life with God’s wisdom rather than worldly voices or self-reliance. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds believers to trust fully in the Lord and avoid leaning on personal understanding. Trusting in God is described with imagery of throwing oneself entirely into His care. This is foundational to living a life that flourishes under His guidance. The wise man challenges his listeners to examine their worldview, urging them to live out biblical truths boldly and to take risks for God, demonstrating faith in action that defies worldly logic. Such trust, coupled with reverence and acknowledgment ofGod, leads to a life of spiritual freedom and fulfillment.

 

Finally, our text highlights the consequences of ignoring God’s wisdom. King David comes to mind. His sins caused physical and emotional torment until he confessed and received God’s forgiveness. Proverbs 3:7-8 and Psalm 32 illustrate the transformative power of humility and dependence on God, which bring healing and refreshment. We are left with a simple yet profound application: fear God, turn from evil and embrace His design for your life. This response to God’s wisdom leads to a life of eternal significance and the peace believers truly desire.

1/5/25 - Wisdom’s Warning - Proverbs 1:22-33 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Wisdom’s Warning

Proverbs 1:22-33

 

Last Sunday’s message from Proverbs reminded us of a fundamental truth: wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. This fear isn’t about dread but reverence, a profound awe for God’s greatness, power, and grace. Proverbs 1:7 underscores this: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” To be wise is to recognize God’s design for the world and to live in harmony with it. Like a toddler ignoring a warning about playing with an electrical outlet, those who disregard God’s wisdom face inevitable consequences. The call today is clear—acknowledge God as the ultimate source of wisdom and align your life with His order.

 

Our text this Sunday highlights further dangers of living apart from God’s guidance. When we prioritize self, applause, or worldly desires over God, we experience a breakdown—psychologically, relationally, and spiritually. Proverbs 14:12 warns that “there is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Whether we are naive and willing to learn or arrogant and resistant, wisdom personified in Proverbs calls us to humility. Accepting discipline and reproof, though uncomfortable, leads to growth and blessing. Rejecting correction, however, leads to regret and missed opportunities for peace and security.

 

Yet, the message ends with hope. Wisdom continually invites us to turn to her. Proverbs 1:33 promises, “Whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.” Today, let’s choose reverence for the Lord, embrace correction from God’s Word, and respond to God’s wisdom before calamity overtakes us. When we do, we are met not with condemnation but with peace, stability, and the steadfast love of a God who desires the best for His children.

12/29/24 - Wisdom or Folly? - Proverbs 1 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Why study Proverbs? Because life is hard!

 

As we begin to open the book, we are reminded of the complexities of life—relationships, conflict, and unexpected difficulties. Proverbs offers us a timeless guide for navigating these challenges with wisdom. The book, written by Solomon, contrasts two paths: the way of the wise and the way of the fool. Its purpose is clear from the outset: to impart skills for living a meaningful and purposeful life by aligning with God’s design. Wisdom is not strictly intellectual; it is a response to how God has ordered the world. Proverbs invites us to recognize and respond to the Creator, whose design leads to the life we deeply desire.

 

The foundation of wisdom begins with “the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7). This is a reverence and awe that acknowledges God’s greatness, holiness, and goodness. This fear is not about dread but about living in the wonder of God’s majesty while embracing His nearness and grace. Such recognition humbles us and opens our hearts to instruction, making us teachable and responsive to Godly counsel. Proverbs warn us of the consequences of foolishness which leads to broken relationships, missed opportunities, and ultimately disgrace. The fool lives out of alignment with God’s order, perpetuating chaos and harm, while the wise find life, honor, and peace by walking in God’s ways.

 

Solomon’s teaching is particularly directed toward the young and those lacking guidance from a Godly father. Proverbs personifies wisdom as a woman calling out, inviting all to embrace knowledge and reject folly. The lessons extend to practical living, from choosing wise companions to taming our words and emotions. These truths are timeless and applicable to all, shaping how we live, love, and lead. As we engage with Proverbs, may we hear the call to wisdom—learning from nature, reflecting on God’s Word, and aligning our lives with His perfect design. In doing so, we will discover the beauty, safety, and blessing of a life rooted in God’s wisdom.

12/22/24 - Advent Love - John 3:16 - Pastor Jason Fritz

This week’s Advent theme is love, beautifully captured in John 3:16.

 

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” 

 

The depth of God’s love is seen in His plan of redemption, which began in theGarden of Eden after the fall of humanity. When Adam and Eve sinned, their relationship with God was broken, and sin and death entered the world. But even then, God promised a Savior in Genesis 3:15, foretelling that the offspring of the woman would crush the serpent’s head. This prophecy pointed to Jesus, who would bear the cost of sin through His death on the cross and triumph over Satan through His resurrection. This sacrificial love reflects God’s unyielding desire to restore His relationship with us.

 

Through the incarnation, God’s love became visible and relatable. Jesus, theWord made flesh, came to live among us so we could truly understand God’s heart. His birth, life, death, and resurrection reveal God's lengths to demonstrate His love and meet humanity’s deepest needs. Romans 8:32 assures us that if God did not spare His own Son but gave Him for us all, He will graciously provide everything we need. This Advent season, may we be filled with awe at the love of God and inspired to share that love with others.

12/15/24 - Advent Joy - Luke 2:8–15 - Pastor Jason Fritz

This Sunday’s Advent theme explores the concept of joy as presented in the great birth announcement given by angels. Joy, unlike happiness, is not based on favorable life events but rooted in a relationship with Jesus. Biblical joy persists through all circumstances, anchored in the character and promises ofGod. This is why the angels’ announcement of Jesus’ birth in Luke 2 was such a momentous declaration of "great joy" for all people—introducing a joy that comes through Christ’s presence and God’s redemptive plan rather than worldly pleasures or success.

 

The announcement reveals God’s profound presence through Jesus, as proclaimed to humble shepherds, demonstrating that this joy is accessible to all, not just the esteemed or powerful. This choice reflects God’s tendency to reach out to the overlooked and marginalized, who respond with attentiveness and faith. Jesus, described as Savior, Christ, and Lord, fulfills centuries-old promises of salvation, establishing Him as the foundation of a lasting joy that transcends temporary sorrows. This joy, embodied in Christ, transforms hardship into a pathway for spiritual growth, as seen in Romans 5:3-5, where suffering builds character and hope.

 

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

 

To experience this enduring joy, Jesus instructs His followers to obey His word and remain in His love (John 15:9-11). Obedience is not restrictive but brings believers closer to God, enabling them to experience His guiding presence. Remaining in His love, as Henri Nouwen suggests, means knowing oneself to be unconditionally loved by God. This realization brings a joy that surpasses life's challenges, offering Christians a steady assurance that their worth and ultimate fulfillment are found in God’s love and salvation.

12/8/24 - Advent Peace - Luke 2:14 - Pastor Jason Fritz

We may recognize peace symbols and awards like the Nobel Peace Prize, yet the world remains full of conflict, with major wars raging. The Bible's concept of peace, shalom, is deeper than just the absence of conflict; it’s the restoration of our relationship with God. C.S. Lewis argued that the true meaning of Christmas is often buried under sentimentality, but at its heart, Christmas is about reconciliation between humanity and God. As the angels proclaimed at Jesus’ birth, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased.” This peace is available not through human efforts but through Christ's forgiveness, bridging the gap between us and God.

 

Jesus is our peace with God. Romans 5:1 reminds us that, “since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” It is not a matter of being “good enough” but trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Our biggest problem—separation from God—has been solved through Christ’s death and resurrection. This peace then frees us to pursue harmony in our relationships with others. In the first century, Christianity united Jews and Gentiles, breaking down walls of hostility and forming a new community in Christ. Paul encouraged the early church to live at peace with one another, reminding them that all are welcome in God’s family.

 

Like others, soon you will gather with your family. It’s not always what you dream it would be. We need help! Knowing we are on good terms with God allows us to become like Jesus. We can model His attitude of humility that brought us peace with our Creator. Consider approaching your loved ones with kindness, patience, and a willingness to forgive. You can’t control others, but you can change the room temperature by setting aside differences, overlooking offenses, and showing compassion. 

 

"If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18 This is made possible when you approach people with the mindset of Jesus. 

 

We have peace with God and peace with others, and through Christ, we can also be at peace with ourselves. When Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you,” He offered us a lasting peace not dependent on external circumstances. This peace helps us face life’s challenges with the security of knowing we are loved by God. It’s not the absence of hardship, but the presence of God with us that enables us to experience peace amid life’s storms. By grounding our hope in Him, we gain a peace the world cannot give, a peace that endures all things.