This weekend, 80 women from River City Church experienced an incredible time of fellowship, worship, and encounter with God at our women's retreat!

From powerful messages to spontaneous worship, from vulnerable sharing to divine revelations, the presence of God was tangible. Women found healing, clarity, and renewed strength as they came together in 'good company.'

In this week's message, Pastor Jared challenges us to look beyond surface-level issues and engage with the spiritual realities Jesus came to address. Through the Lord's Prayer and examples from Matthew's Gospel, we see how Jesus introduced a radical new kingdom that overturns oppression, injustice, and the very power of evil itself.

Discover how submitting to prayer and embracing Christ's authority can bring true freedom and transformation - in our lives and in our city.

Jesus came to overthrow Satan, set us free, and establish His kingdom on earth. As believers, we're on the offensive - armed with prayer, authority in Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Don't let the enemy's lies hold you back. Whether it's discouragement, addiction, anxiety, or spiritual oppression - recognize the battle and fight back!

In a world that often feels divided and fractured, there's a powerful force that can bind us together and heal our deepest wounds: forgiveness. It's a concept we've all heard about, but one that can be incredibly challenging to put into practice. Yet, as we explore the depths of forgiveness, we discover it's not just a nice idea—it's the very foundation of healthy relationships and thriving communities.

Remember, forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting or excusing harmful behavior. It's about freeing yourself from the burden of bitterness and opening your heart to healing and restoration. As we learn to forgive—and to receive forgiveness—we create space for love, unity, and the kind of community that reflects the heart of God.

"Are you struggling with patience? 🤔

In today's message, we explored how true patience isn't just about waiting - it's about being present and growing in Christ.

Key takeaways: • Patience isn't passive - it's actively engaging with God's work in our lives • Humility comes before patience • Suffering can cultivate either bitterness or perseverance - the choice is ours • Hope doesn't disappoint us, even in our toughest seasons

Remember, we're called to set our minds on things above. When we clothe ourselves in Christ's love, we gain supernatural patience that transcends our circumstances.

Aaron reminds us that true gentleness isn't weakness, but strength under control. And real humility isn't self-deprecation, but seeing yourself rightly in God's eyes.

The key? Remembering who you are in Christ: • Chosen • Holy • Dearly loved

It's only when we're rooted in God's love that we can truly clothe ourselves with Christ's character. We don't have to earn it or prove ourselves worthy.

What beliefs or idols might be holding you back from fully embracing your identity in Christ? Let's encourage each other to lay those down and draw near to Jesus this week.

True compassion comes from the soul, not just the mind. It's not about being seen as compassionate or manipulating others. It's about worshiping God by seeing His image in every person we encounter.

But here's the twist: Compassionate kindness doesn't mean avoiding hard truths. Sometimes, the most loving thing we can do is speak truth, even when it's difficult.

Are we willing to both empathize deeply AND hold the line on truth, just as Jesus did? That's the challenge of Christ-like compassion.

Let's be a church that goes into the world with eyes wide open - ready to listen before we speak, but also courageous enough to speak life-changing truth in love.

We're not called to strive harder or do more. We're invited to gaze upon Jesus, letting His beauty and grace wash over us. As we do, we find ourselves slowly but surely becoming more like Him.

Remember: You're not trying to change yourself or others. You're simply pointing hearts toward Jesus. He does the transforming work.