Faith Community Health Ministry - Grace Lutheran Church

02/04/2026

The Power of God’s Word and a Relationship With Jesus

There is something life-changing about spending time in Scripture—not out of religion, but out of relationship. When we open the Bible, we aren’t just reading words. We are being shaped, strengthened, and transformed by the living Word of God.

Research from the Center for Bible Engagement (often referred to as the “Power of 4”) found that people who engage with Scripture four or more days per week experience significant differences in life outcomes, while those who engage one to three days per week showed minimal measurable change.

Results often cited for those engaging Scripture 4+ days per week include:
30% lower loneliness
32% lower anger issues
40% less bitterness in relationships
57% less alcoholism
60% less spiritual stagnation
61% less exposure to po*******hy
200–230% increases in faith-sharing and discipleship
407% more likely to memorize Scripture

This isn’t about checking a box. This is about the truth that a personal relationship with Jesus changes everything. When you spend time with Him consistently, your heart changes, your mind renews, your desires shift, and your life begins to reflect His presence.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105

If you’re looking for a fresh start, deeper peace, or spiritual strength, start small. Even five minutes. Even one chapter. Even one Psalm. Just show up, and let Jesus meet you there.

02/04/2026

What an honor and privilege it was to stand before such an incredible group of clergy—men who serve God and His people with humility, strength, and unwavering faith. 🙌🏾 I’m truly grateful for your leadership, your sacrifice, your prayers, and the way you continue to show up for others day after day.

Today I shared a Faith Community Nurse reminder that your health matters too—body, mind, and soul. Because the work you do is sacred, and you deserve to be cared for as you care for so many.

A few small daily practices that can make a big difference:
🟡 Stand and stretch between meetings or visits
🟡 Take 3 slow breaths and relax your shoulders when stress rises
🟡 Add 1-minute movement “snacks” (marching, sit-to-stands, squats) throughout the day
🟡 Pray while you walk (“Lord, order my steps”)
🟡 Drink water before caffeine and choose one nourishing meal
🟡 Protect rest and give yourself permission to recover—rest is holy

Thank you to every pastor who serves faithfully. God sees you. ❤️

01/25/2026

Grace Lutheran Church - another warming center!!!

01/24/2026

Great class Michelle Briggs and myself are leading. Hope you sign-up!

01/22/2026

01/22/2026

Thanks to Ursula Barrier for sharing!!!

BEFORE THE STORM (24–48 HOURS AHEAD)

❄️1. Charge all phones, power banks, tablets, and rechargeable lanterns.

❄️2. Fill vehicle gas tanks in case stations lose power.

❄️3. Get cash in small bills in case card systems go down.

❄️4. Pick up prescriptions and essential medications early.

❄️5. Download movies, books, and maps for offline use.

❄️6. Identify one warm room in the house to “camp out” if power fails.

❄️7. Locate water shut-off valve and breaker box now, not later.

❄️8. Set fridge and freezer to colder settings to hold temperature longer.

WATER AND PIPE PROTECTION

❄️9. Drip faucets on exterior walls when temps drop below freezing.

❄️10. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.

❄️11. Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots.

❄️12. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated caps or towels.

❄️13. Know how to shut off water quickly if a pipe bursts.

❄️14. Fill jugs, buckets, or bathtub with water for flushing and washing.

FOOD AND KITCHEN PREP

❄️15. Keep 3–5 days of NO-COOK food like peanut butter, tuna, bread, crackers, canned meat, fruit cups, cereal.

❄️16. Have manual can opener available.

❄️17. Buy shelf-stable milk or powdered milk if needed.

❄️18. Freeze a few water bottles to act as freezer “ice packs.”

❄️19. Keep a cooler ready to move fridge food outside if power is out and temps are below freezing.

❄️20. Avoid stocking large amounts of perishables right before the storm.

HEAT AND HOME SAFETY

❄️21. Gather extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm layers.

❄️22. If using a fireplace, confirm chimney is clear and have dry wood.

❄️23. Never run generators or grills inside garages or homes.

❄️24. Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.

❄️25. Have at least one flashlight per person plus spare batteries.

❄️26. Use battery lanterns instead of candles when possible.

VEHICLE AND TRAVEL

❄️27. Plan to avoid driving once freezing rain begins.

❄️28. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads freeze first.

❄️29. Keep in the car: blanket, water, snacks, phone charger, gloves.

❄️30. Replace old wiper blades and top off washer fluid.

❄️31. Park away from large tree limbs when possible.

❄️32. Assume flights and travel may be disrupted.

POWER OUTAGE PLAN

❄️33. Unplug sensitive electronics to avoid surge damage.

❄️34. Keep one battery radio or weather app for updates.

❄️35. Use surge protectors for TVs and computers.

❄️36. Know where warming centers may be in your area.

❄️37. Have extension cords ready if using a generator outside.

❄️38. Keep refrigerator closed to preserve cold air.

PETS AND LIVESTOCK

❄️39. Bring pets indoors with extra food and water.

❄️40. Provide outdoor animals with unfrozen water sources.

❄️41. Add straw or blankets to outdoor shelters.

❄️42. Keep leashes and carriers accessible in case of evacuation.

MEDICAL AND SPECIAL NEEDS

❄️43. Keep a written list of medications and dosages.

❄️44. Store a small first-aid kit with thermometer and basic meds.

❄️45. Have backup batteries for medical devices.

❄️46. Identify a place with power you could relocate to if needed.

PROPERTY PROTECTION

❄️47. Move vehicles away from trees or power lines.

❄️48. Secure outdoor furniture and lightweight items.

❄️49. Avoid trimming trees during the storm, do it beforehand.

❄️50. Photograph property for insurance before conditions worsen.

DURING THE STORM

❄️51. Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.

❄️52. Assume downed lines are live and dangerous.

❄️53. Use only safe indoor heating methods.

❄️54. Check on neighbors, especially elderly, by phone if possible.

❄️55. Report outages to utility companies rather than 911 unless it’s an emergency.

AFTER THE STORM

❄️56. Walk carefully, ice may refreeze overnight.

❄️57. Check pipes for leaks as temperatures rise.

❄️58. Throw out refrigerated food if above 40°F for more than 4 hours.

❄️59. Avoid DIY electrical repairs around downed lines.

❄️60. Be patient, restoring power after ice can take several days.

KEY REALITY FOR ICE EVENTS

❄️A quarter inch of ice can bring scattered outages.

❄️Half an inch can cripple travel and power for days.

❄️Ice is more dangerous than snow for the Deep South.

FEEL FREE TO ADD OTHER TIPS AND TRICKS...

01/21/2026

Grace Lutheran Church

01/20/2026

Let's donate for Human Trafficking Month and support our local hospital as they care for folks who leave awful situations with nothing but the clothes on their backs sometimes!!! Grace Lutheran Church