Union Grove Weekly

What happens when our plans don't line up with God's?

In Hebrews 11:20, Isaac's story reminds us that God's purposes are greater than our plans, His grace is greater than our failures, and His promises are greater than our circumstances. Even through a family filled with favoritism and deception, God remained faithful to His promise, ultimately fulfilled through Jesus Christ.

Join us as we continue our Hall of Faith series and discover what it means to trust God's plan instead of insisting on our own.

What happens when God's timing doesn't match our expectations?

In this message from our Hall of Faith series, we explore the life of Sarah in Hebrews 11:11–16. After waiting 25 years for God's promise, Sarah experienced doubt, impatience, and moments of uncertainty. Yet God remained faithful.

Sarah's story reminds us that faith isn't about perfect trust, but trusting a perfectly faithful God.

We discover three truths about faith:

1. Faith trusts in the character of God.

2. Faith rests in the faithfulness of God.

3. Faith believes in the Word of God.

What does it really mean to live by faith?

In this message from our Hall of Faith series, Pastor Josh Evans walks through the life of Abraham in Hebrews 11 and shows us what it means to trust God even when we don't know where He's leading, when we're waiting on His promises, and when surrender requires everything.

Through Abraham's story, we discover four powerful truths: Faith steps out, stays steady, stands on God's Word, and surrenders everything.

Abraham's story reminds us that faith isn't about how strong we are, but how great and...

What does real faith look like when the world around you is moving in the opposite direction? In this message from our Hall of Faith series, we look at Noah in Hebrews 11:7 and see a faith that believed what God said, feared God, obeyed before understanding, stood firm when others walked away, and trusted completely in God’s rescue plan. Noah’s story is more than an account of an ark and a flood. It reminds us that God is holy, judgment is real, grace comes from God, and He has always been the One who provides the way of r...

Enoch is one of the most mysterious people in Scripture. We know very little about his life, yet Hebrews 11 places him in the Hall of Faith for one simple reason: he walked with God.

In this message from Hebrews 11:5, Pastor Josh looks at the faith of Enoch and three truths we can apply to our own lives: Faith walks with God. Faith testifies about God. Faith pleases God. Enoch did not build an ark, defeat an enemy, or lead a nation. His testimony was much simpler and much more powerful: he consistently walked with God in a...

What does it really mean to live by faith? As we begin our new series, Hall of Faith, we look at Abel in Hebrews 11:1-4 and discover that biblical faith is more than belief. Faith approaches God on His terms, trusts Him even when obedience costs us something, and rests in what God has already provided. Abel brought a sacrifice, but Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice. Abel’s blood cried out for justice, but the blood of Jesus speaks a better word: mercy, forgiveness, and redemption. Faith stops trusting in what I can bring to God and starts trusting in...

When life doesn’t make sense, you can still trust the God who is in control.

In Mark 4:35-41, the disciples obeyed Jesus and still found themselves in the middle of a terrifying storm. Their story reminds us that following God does not guarantee smooth sailing, but it does mean we never sail alone. In this message, we look at what it means to trust God’s direction, presence, power, and character even when we cannot understand what He is doing.

When confusion is loud, trust what you already know about who God is.

In a world that constantly pushes us toward more, faster, and busier, Jesus offers a different way. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to come to Him and find rest.

True rest isn’t simply doing less or escaping our responsibilities. It’s learning to walk with Jesus, allowing Him to carry what we were never meant to carry.

A steady life doesn’t wait until empty to refuel.

What do you do when life feels like too much to carry?

In Psalm 61:1-8, David writes from a place of weakness, exhaustion, and overwhelming circumstances. His answer was not to simply become stronger. Instead, he cried out to God and prayed, “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” When you feel overwhelmed, God invites you to cry out, climb higher, remember His faithfulness, and abide in His presence.

You don’t overcome an overwhelmed heart by becoming stronger. You overcome an overwhelmed heart by becoming anchored to Someone stronger than you.

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Steady: Peace Over Worry | Philippians 4:6-9 How do we remain steady when worry starts taking over? In Philippians 4:6-9, Paul gives us a practical path toward peace: pray about everything, thank God in everything, rest in the peace of God, and guard what we allow to fill our minds. The answer to worry isn’t gaining control of tomorrow - it’s trusting the God who already holds tomorrow. In this message from our STEADY series, we’ll see how prayer, gratitude, and God’s truth can help us experience peace even when life around us feels chaotic.

In a chaotic world, how do we stay steady? In Matthew 6:1-18, Jesus points us toward spiritual disciplines that create stability in our lives: giving, prayer, and fasting. These aren’t empty religious rituals—they are intentional rhythms that keep bringing us back to what matters most. Discipline is choosing ahead of time what matters most instead of allowing the moment to decide for us. Because chaos doesn’t require intentionality. Discipline does. In this message, Pastor Josh Evans challenges us to build daily spiritual habits that strengthen our walk with God and prepare us to remain steady when life g...

In the final message of our Summer Classics series, we look at the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10. Although he was wealthy and successful, Zacchaeus was still searching for something only Jesus could provide. What Zacchaeus discovered was that while he was searching for Jesus, Jesus had already been pursuing him. Through this encounter, we see that salvation is a gift of grace - and genuine grace produces genuine transformation. No amount of success, money, popularity, or relationships can satisfy the deepest need of the human heart. Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and His grace...

When God called Moses, he responded with insecurity, fear, and excuses. He questioned his identity, his ability, and whether anyone would believe him. But God continually redirected Moses away from his weaknesses and toward His presence and power.

God does not ask us to power the mission. He asks us to make ourselves available. Our confidence is not found in believing we are enough, but in knowing that God is enough.

What do you do when you're facing a wall that seems impossible to overcome? In this week's message from our Summer Classics series, Pastor Josh looks at the story of Joshua and Jericho (Joshua 6:1–20) and reminds us that God's faithfulness doesn't change, no matter how intimidating the obstacle may seem.

Whether you're facing a broken relationship, financial pressure, fear, addiction, or an uncertain future, this message encourages us to trust God's promises, obey Him even when His plan doesn't make sense, and remain faithful while He works behind the scenes.

Scripture: Joshua 6:1–20

If this...

Jonah is more than the story of a man swallowed by a great fish. It's the story of a God who relentlessly pursues those who run from Him, extends mercy to the undeserving, and offers second chances to all who repent. In this message, we'll see how our disobedience affects those around us, why God sometimes uses storms to draw us back, and how the book of Jonah ultimately points us to Jesus Christ, our only source of deliverance.

Join us as we continue our Summer Classics series and discover the timeless truths found in one of...

This week in our Summer Classics series, we look at one of Jesus' most famous parables, The Prodigal Son. More than a story about a wayward son, this passage reveals the heart of a loving Father who pursues the lost and extends grace to the undeserving. Whether you identify with the younger brother, the older brother, or the father, this message reminds us that the Gospel is God's invitation to come home and experience His grace. #SummerClassics #TheProdigalSon #Luke15 #UGBC #Grace #Forgiveness #JesusSaves

What does it look like to live a life that truly honors God?

In this final message of our Life Hacks series from Proverbs, we explore the character traits that shape a godly life - humility, integrity, discretion, and faithfulness. While our world often celebrates shortcuts and self-promotion, God's Word points us toward a different path: surrender.

Discover practical wisdom for developing Christlike character, guarding your heart, building strong relationships, and walking faithfully with the Lord in everyday life.

📖 Scripture: Proverbs ⛪ Union Grove Baptist Church

If this message encouraged you, be sure...

Words matter more than we realize.

In this message from Proverbs 12:13-14, we look at the power of our speech - the content of our words, the tone we use, and the purpose behind what we say. Scripture reminds us that words can bring healing or destruction, encouragement or damage, life or hurt.

Once words leave our mouths, we can’t take them back. So the question becomes: what kind of wisdom is shaping the way we speak? 📖💬

Life Hacks #5 - Think Before You Speak

Bad behaviors don’t just create bad moments - they lead to bad outcomes. In this message from our Life Hacks series, we walk through Proverbs and uncover the destructive patterns that quietly sabotage relationships, spiritual growth, and everyday life.

We talk about:

+Laziness and missed opportunities

+Pride and self-righteousness

+Gossip and destructive words +Anger and conflict +Revenge and bitterness

+Gluttony and lack of self-control

+Envy and comparison

But Proverbs doesn’t just expose the problem... it gives us the remedy. God’s wisdom...

Everyone wants shortcuts that actually work - but what if real life change doesn’t come from trends, but from truth?

We’re kicking off a brand new series called Life Hacks, walking through the book of Proverbs and uncovering practical, biblical wisdom for everyday life. In week one, we focus on wisdom - what it really is and why it matters. Wisdom is not just knowledge, it is the ability to apply truth to your everyday decisions.

In this message, we break down the difference between knowledge, understanding, and wisdom, and why so many peop...

We wrap up The Blueprint of Prayer by looking at “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:5-13).

Temptation is something we all face - but it doesn’t have to lead to sin. In this message, we unpack what temptation is, where it comes from, and how it works against us, from our own flesh to the influence of the enemy.

But there’s real hope - the same God who forgives past sin gives power for present victory. You don’t have to give in - you can overcome.

We al...

What man ruined in the first garden, Jesus redeemed in the second.

In this Easter message from John 19:38 - 42, we see how the empty tomb changes everything - sin forgiven, death defeated, and a way back to God made possible through Jesus.

The tomb is empty. Hope is alive.

📖 John 19:38 - 42

#Easter #JesusIsAlive #Resurrection

What does it mean to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread”?

In Week 4 of The Blueprint of Prayer, we explore how Jesus teaches us to trust God - not just for eternity, but for our everyday needs.

This prayer reminds us:

• God provides what we need, not just what we want

• We depend on Him daily, not just long-term

• We pray not only for ourselves, but for others

📖 Matthew 6:5-13 Stop worrying about tomorrow - trust God for today.

👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more 🔔 Turn...

The New Jerusalem isn’t just a place - it’s our future home. In Week 28 of The Returning King, we walk through Revelation 21:9-27 and explore the beauty, glory, and reality of the city God is preparing for His people. No darkness. No sin. No separation - just the presence of God forever.

The question is simple: Which city do you belong to?

📖 Revelation 21:9-27

📍 Union Grove Baptist Church

What does it really mean to pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done”?

In this message, we continue our series The Blueprint of Prayer by looking at one of the most powerful and challenging parts of the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus teaches us that prayer is not about getting God to align with our plans - but about surrendering our lives to His.

We explore:

The difference between a performance-based relationship with God and a family-based relationship

What the Kingdom of God truly is - both now and in eternity

W...

In this message from The Blueprint of Prayer, we explore the phrase “Hallowed be Your Name” from the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:5–13. Jesus teaches that before bringing requests to God, our prayers should begin with reverence, praise, and adoration for His holy name. Discover what it means to honor God’s name, value His glory above all things, and allow praise to shape the entire foundation of your prayer life. 📖 Matthew 6:5–13 #LordsPrayer #Prayer #BibleTeaching #Matthew6 #ChristianFaith

In this week of Revelation: The Returning King, we explore Revelation 21:1-8 and the incredible promise of a New Heaven and a New Earth. John reveals what our future home with God will be like-where God dwells with His people forever, the effects of sin are gone, and all things are made new.

This passage reminds believers of the hope ahead and challenges us to live with eternity in view as we await the return of the King.

📖 Revelation 21:1-8

#Revelation #BibleTeaching #NewHeavenAndEarth #ChristianHope #EndTimes

In this message from The Blueprint of Prayer series, we begin with the opening words of the Lord’s Prayer: “Our Father in Heaven.” Jesus teaches that prayer is not a cold transaction based on performance, but a relationship with a loving Father.

Because of Christ, believers approach God not as renters trying to earn approval, but as children who have been adopted into His family. Discover what it means that the Father knows you, has adopted you, and is changing you as you grow in relationship with Him.

📖 Matthew 6:5-13

#BibleTeaching #LordsPrayer #Prayer #C...

What happens at the final judgment? In Revelation 20:7-15, John describes one of the most sobering scenes in Scripture - the Great White Throne Judgment.

After the 1,000-year reign of Christ, Satan is released briefly and deceives the nations before being cast into the Lake of Fire forever. Then the dead stand before God, the books are opened, and another book - the Book of Life.

This passage reminds us of several important truths:

+Satan is a powerful deceiver +God is perfectly just

+Eternal judgment is real

+What matters...

We conclude our Emotions: Navigating Our Feelings with Biblical Truth series by looking at one emotion everyone longs for - joy. I

n Ecclesiastes 2, King Solomon shares his search for fulfillment. He experienced pleasure, success, wealth, relationships, and achievement, yet without God it all felt empty - “vanity.”

This message explores:

• Why pleasure and laughter cannot produce lasting joy

• How success and achievement fail to satisfy the heart

• The danger of finding identity in what we do instead of who God is

• The truth that real joy comes from a...

What does it mean to be a mission-minded church? In this message kicking off our GO! Missions Conference, we look at the Great Commission and discover why we give, send, and go in the name of Jesus.

From Matthew 28:16-20, we’re reminded that Jesus’ authority empowers us to reach people and make disciples across the street and around the world. Our responsibility is to go - God is responsible for saving. The goal is not just conversion, but discipleship: learning from Jesus and living in obedience to Him.

As we go, teach, and baptize, we m...

Emotions - Week 4:

Guilt Psalm 51:1-14

Today we continue our series Emotions: Navigating Our Feelings with Biblical Truth by looking at the weight of guilt.

Guilt is the internal acknowledgment that we have done wrong. When we bury or excuse sin, guilt does not disappear - it grows, affecting our relationships, fueling anxiety, and leading to anger, bitterness, and depression.

In Psalm 51, David responds to his sin with Bathsheba. Though a king and a man after God’s own heart, he fell into sin, reminding us that no one is above gu...

This week we continue our series “Emotions: Navigating Feelings with Biblical Truth” by examining the topic of anger through Ephesians 4:26-32. While anger is something every person experiences, Scripture teaches that anger itself is not sin-but when left unchecked, it can take root in our hearts, damage relationships, and pull us away from the life Christ has called us to live.

In this message, we explore how the Gospel transforms the way we respond to anger. Paul reminds us that spiritual maturity is revealed not only in what we believe, but in how we handle our emotions-especially when...

Bitterness has a way of taking root quietly, shaping our hearts, our reactions, and our relationships without us realizing it.

In this episode, we talk about why unforgiveness becomes a prison and how the forgiveness we’ve received through Jesus is meant to change the way we live with others. Many of us carry wounds from broken marriages, betrayal by friends, painful words from parents, disappointment from leaders, or moments when people didn’t show up the way we hoped.

Jesus teaches that forgiveness is not about keeping score, but about reflecting His heart. When forg...

Jesus is coming again - not as a suffering servant, but as the victorious King.

In this message from Revelation 19:11-21, we see a powerful picture of Christ’s return: Heaven opened, the King of Kings revealed, and evil finally defeated. Jesus returns in righteousness, bringing justice, judgment, and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

This passage reminds us that history is not random and evil does not win. Christ’s return is certain, His victory is final, and every person will one day stand before Him. The question isn’t if He’s coming - i...

In our new series EMOTIONS, we’re having an honest conversation about the feelings we all experience... and what the Bible actually says about them.

This week, we focus on depression. Depression is real, complex, and Christians are not exempt from it. From 1 Kings 19:1–15, we look at the story of Elijah and see that even a faithful prophet struggled with fear, exhaustion, and discouragement. Through his life, we learn that depression can affect us emotionally, spiritually, and physically - and that God meets us in all three.

In this message, we explore:

+How fear...

Revelation: The Returning King - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb

In Revelation 19, we shift from the wrath of God to one of the most hopeful and powerful scenes in all of Scripture - the return of Christ and the celebration known as the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

In this message, we explore the difference between the Rapture and the Second Coming of Christ and why understanding that distinction matters. We also look at the “sounds in heaven” as John hears worship, rejoicing, and repeated cries of Alleluia as the church is united with Chri...

Joy is not found in circumstances, possessions, or comfort. Joy is found in supporting the mission of God. 🙌

In this message concluding our Giving > Receiving series, we look at Philippians 4 and discover why generosity is such a powerful source of joy in the life of a believer. Writing from a prison cell, the Apostle Paul thanks the church at Philippi for their faithful support and reminds them that giving to God’s work is never wasted.

This message walks through four reasons Scripture shows us that joy is found in giving to the mission of God...

In Revelation 18:1–24, Scripture reveals the fall of Babylon, a powerful and wealthy system built in opposition to God. Though it appears strong, beautiful, and untouchable, its collapse is sudden and complete. What the world trusts in is brought to nothing in a moment.

This message examines the deception of wealth, power, and self-glory, and God’s clear call to His people to separate from a corrupt world system. As Babylon falls, Revelation reminds us that every man-made kingdom will fail, but the Kingdom of Christ will stand forever.

Knowing how the story ends shapes how we l...

Giving / Receiving | The Heart of Giving

In this message, we continue our Giving / Receiving series by focusing on the heart behind our giving. Scripture reminds us that generosity is not about the amount we give, but the heart in which we give. God does not need our money - He wants our hearts.

Jesus illustrates this truth through the widow who gave two small coins, showing that sacrificial, faith-filled giving matters more than impressive amounts. The Apostle Paul builds on this in 2 Corinthians 9, teaching that cheerful giving flows from a heart transformed by the Gospel...