Vision and Purpose—Seeking God’s Vision for Our Lives

Have you ever wondered if you’re truly walking in the path that God has prepared for you? It’s a question many of us wrestle with at different stages of our lives. We sense that we’re made for something more, yet we’re unsure exactly what that more looks like. The good news is, God has a vision and purpose for each of our lives, and He delights in revealing it to us as we seek Him.

Why God’s Vision Matters

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 29:18, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Vision gives us direction, hope, and a reason to press forward when challenges arise. It anchors us to God’s promises and keeps us from drifting aimlessly through life. When we have a divine vision, every day becomes an opportunity to take a step closer to the destiny God has in store for us.

Aligning with God’s Purpose

1. Prayerful Surrender
   To discover God’s vision, we must first surrender our own. In our culture, we’re often encouraged to dream big and pursue our personal ambitions. But Jesus taught us in Matthew 6:10 to pray, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done.” Before anything else, we must place our plans at His feet, asking Him to guide and shape our desires according to His will.

2. Studying Scripture
   God speaks to us through His Word. Passages like Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” remind us that God’s thoughts toward us are hopeful, purposeful, and loving. As we spend time in the Bible, we align our hearts with God’s truth, positioning ourselves to discern His guidance more clearly.

3. Obedience in the Small Things
   Sometimes we look for grand, life-changing signs, but God often starts by asking us to be faithful in the little things. Luke 16:10 says, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” When we obey in the small steps, we cultivate a heart posture that’s ready to receive bigger assignments from the Lord.

4. Seeking Wise Counsel
   God has placed us in a community of believers for a reason. Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Surround yourself with people who love Jesus and desire to see you grow in Him—mentors, small group leaders, trusted friends. Their wisdom and prayer support can confirm God’s leading in your life.

Practical Steps to Pursue Vision

• Set Aside Quiet Time: In the noise of our busy routines, scheduling intentional moments of solitude with God can create space for Him to speak.

• Journal Your Prayers: Writing down your prayers and the impressions you sense from the Lord can help you look back and see His guiding hand over time.

• Take Incremental Steps of Faith: Once you sense God nudging you toward a particular direction, trust Him enough to take the first step—even if it feels small.

Living Out Your Calling

When we begin living out God’s vision, we experience a deeper sense of fulfillment. Each act of obedience becomes an act of worship. The overflow of this purpose pours into our relationships, our church, and our community. It’s in living out His plans that we not only bless others, but also encounter the abundance Jesus promised in John 10:10: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

Friends, remember that God’s vision and purpose for your life isn’t about perfection—it's about pursuit. It’s about daily seeking Him, daily trusting Him, and daily stepping out in faith. As you do, you’ll find Him faithful to lead you every step of the way.

With hope and anticipation,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Church
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"

Embracing God's Plan

From the Pastor’s Desk: New Year, New Beginnings—Embracing God’s Plan

Happy New Year, church family! As we turn the page on another year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and eagerly anticipating the future. Perhaps you’ve been making resolutions, setting goals, or dreaming about what the months ahead might hold. Whatever is on your heart as 2025 begins, I want to encourage you to take a moment and consider what God’s plan might be for your life in this season.

The Bible reminds us of God’s faithfulness in creating new beginnings. In Isaiah 43:19, the Lord declares, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” This promise speaks directly into our lives today. No matter what we’ve experienced in the past year—successes, failures, joys, or sorrows—God is always at work, weaving together a new and hopeful future for us.

One of the keys to embracing God’s plan is learning to let go of the past. Philippians 3:13–14 encourages us to “forget what lies behind” and “press on toward the goal.” This doesn’t mean we ignore the lessons we learned or discount our memories; rather, it means we refuse to let past disappointments or hurts define us. With our eyes fixed on Jesus, we step forward in faith.

As you set your intentions for this new year, I invite you to include a spiritual goal among them. Perhaps it’s reading through the Bible in a year, committing to regular prayer and journaling, or joining a small group where you can grow deeper in faith and fellowship. Ask God to show you where He’s calling you and what He’s asking of you in this season.

Remember, new beginnings aren’t just about fresh starts; they’re about being open and available to the new things God wants to do in and through your life. When you put Him first—trusting in His wisdom, seeking His guidance, and following His Word—you’ll find purpose and fulfillment far beyond your own plans.

Let’s step into 2025 with courage and anticipation, knowing that our Heavenly Father has already gone before us. May this year be filled with greater faith, deeper love, and unshakeable hope as we embrace God’s plan together.

With anticipation and joy,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Christian Center
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"

From the Pastor’s Desk: Closing Out 2024 and Stepping Into 2025

From the Pastor’s Desk: Closing Out 2024 and Stepping Into 2025

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it’s natural to reflect on the journey we’ve walked in 2024. This year has brought its share of joys and challenges, triumphs and trials. Through it all, one thing has remained constant: the faithfulness of God.

At Grace, we’ve seen His hand at work in incredible ways this year. From our Sunday services and midweek gatherings to new initiatives, God has been moving in and through our church family. Lives have been touched, hearts have been encouraged, and the Gospel has been shared. For all of this, we give Him glory!

As we close out 2024, I encourage you to take time to pause and reflect on what God has done in your own life. Celebrate the victories, learn from the challenges, and give thanks for His constant presence. Philippians 1:6 reminds us: “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Looking ahead to 2025, I believe God has even greater things in store for Grace Christian Center. Our vision remains strong: to be a church Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, and Growing in Christ. As we step into the new year, we’ll continue to focus on building relationships, deepening our faith, and reaching out to our community with the love of Christ.

This coming year, we’re excited to launch new programs and strengthen existing ones. From expanding our family-focused events to enhancing discipleship opportunities and outreach, we are committed to growing together as a church family and making a difference for God’s Kingdom.

As we step into 2025, I encourage you to set your heart on the promises of God. Isaiah 43:19 says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Whatever the year ahead holds, we can trust that God is already at work, preparing the way before us.

Let’s step into this new year with bold faith, renewed hope, and hearts ready to serve. Together, let’s make 2025 a year where we grow closer to God, each other, and our community.

Happy New Year! May God bless you and your family abundantly as we embark on this journey together.

With love and anticipation,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Church
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"

The Presence of the Gift

As we draw closer to Christmas, I find myself reflecting not only on the meaning of the gift of Christ but also on the profound presence that gift brings into our lives. The presence of Jesus is more than just a historical fact; it is an ever-present reality that transforms our lives today.

When God gave us His Son, He gave us more than a solution to sin—He gave us Himself. The name Emmanuel, which means “God with us,” reminds us that the gift of Jesus is a constant reminder of God’s desire to dwell with His people. In Matthew 1:23, we read, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel.” This truth is the heart of Christmas: God is not distant. He is near.

The presence of the gift is a source of peace. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the assurance that God is with us gives us strength to face each day. The same God who came as a baby in a manger walks with us through every moment of life, offering comfort and guiding us with His love.

The presence of the gift is also personal. God didn’t send Jesus for a select few—He sent Him for you. He knows your name, your struggles, and your joys, and He longs to have a personal relationship with you. His presence in your life is the ultimate expression of His love and care.

Finally, the presence of the gift is eternal. Jesus didn’t come to be with us temporarily; He came to secure our place with Him forever. His birth marked the beginning of a journey that would lead to the cross and the empty tomb, where death was defeated, and eternal life was made possible for all who believe in Him.

This Christmas, let’s not only celebrate the gift of Jesus but also embrace His presence in our lives. Take time to pause and experience the peace, love, and joy that come from knowing Emmanuel—God with us.

May the presence of the gift fill your heart and home this season and remind you of the unshakable hope we have in Christ.

With joy and gratitude,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Church - Loris
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"

The Purpose of the Gift

From the Pastor’s Desk: The Purpose of the Gift

As we journey through this Christmas season, I’ve found myself reflecting on the gifts we exchange and what they truly represent. Gifts are expressions of love, thoughtfulness, and sometimes sacrifice. But more importantly, gifts remind us of the ultimate act of love—the gift of Jesus Christ, given by God to the world.

In John 3:16, we read these familiar words: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse captures the heart of Christmas. The purpose of God’s gift wasn’t to impress or overwhelm—it was to save, restore, and bring us into an eternal relationship with Him.

The purpose of the gift of Jesus is rooted in love. God didn’t send His Son out of obligation or necessity. He sent Jesus because of His immeasurable love for you and me. The birth of Christ in a humble stable reveals that God’s love reaches into the ordinary places of our lives, transforming them into something extraordinary.

The purpose of the gift is also reconciliation. Sin created a barrier between humanity and God, but through Jesus, that barrier was torn down. His birth, life, death, and resurrection bridged the gap and made a way for us to walk in fellowship with our Creator.

Finally, the purpose of the gift is hope. In a world often marked by uncertainty and pain, Jesus brings the promise of a future filled with His peace and presence. The angels proclaimed it best on the night of His birth: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14).

As you unwrap presents this year, I encourage you to pause and reflect on the gift that was unwrapped in a manger over 2,000 years ago. That gift, wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger, is the greatest gift you could ever receive.

May the purpose of God’s gift fill your heart with gratitude, inspire you to share His love with others, and remind you of the hope we have in Him.

Merry Christmas,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Christian Center
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"

From The Pastor's Desk: The Season of Celebration and Joy

From the Pastor’s Desk: The Season of Celebration and Joy

As we enter the Christmas season, I am reminded of the beautiful truth that this time of year is more than just a celebration of gifts, decorations, and gatherings. It is a season of hope, joy, and the ultimate gift—Jesus Christ, our Savior.

At Grace Church, we are preparing our hearts to embrace the fullness of what Christmas means. In the weeks leading up to December 25th, I encourage you to take time to reflect on the incredible love of God that was revealed through the birth of His Son. Christmas is a story of God coming near to us, not as a distant king, but as a humble child born in a manger. This simple yet profound moment changed everything.

Christmas is a time to celebrate Emmanuel, "God with us." It is also a time to remember that His presence brings peace, joy, and hope into every area of our lives. No matter what challenges or uncertainties we may face, the message of Christmas reminds us that we are never alone. God's love is constant and unchanging.

This year, as we gather for our “Christmas at Grace” program on December 22, I invite you to bring your family and friends to experience this celebration of Christ’s birth together. It will be a time of worship, fellowship, and the sharing of God’s Word.

In this busy season, let's not lose sight of what truly matters. Let’s keep Christ at the center of our hearts and our homes. As you exchange gifts and enjoy time with loved ones, remember that the greatest gift of all was given over 2,000 years ago—a gift that continues to transform lives today.

Merry Christmas to you and your family. May your hearts be filled with the peace and joy that only Jesus can bring.

In His grace,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Church
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"