Devotions by Barb -- October 5, 2026

In this space, I am sharing devotions written by our dear Barbara Meade.

Barbara grew up a Quaker and is a regular attendee at Spiceland Friends Church. Her faith and Quaker roots go deep as her uncle was a Quaker pastor, evangelist, and artist. Barb's writings about her many life experiences reveal her faith in Christ and highlight the memories of a great family, her years in the banking industry, and her time as a local small business owner. Barb's desire is to serve those around her through her encouraging devotionals and writings from her life. Barb has recognized that our relationship with Christ grows throughout our lives, both in good times and through life's challenges.

HALLOWEEN THOUGHTS

As October rolls around it is time we think of goblins, ghosts, and fear. Neighborhoods fill up with things that make us jump. It is all in good fun, but we live in a frightening world.

Fear lingers in our thoughts; the Bible refers to this as a “spirit of fear”. God has not given us that spirit. He has given us his own spirit. Timothy 1: 7 For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but power and love and a sound mind.

In Matthew the disciples find themselves caught in a terrible storm at sea. They looked out across the water and thought they were seeing a ghost. Matthew 14: 27 Jesus spoke out and said “It is I, do not be afraid”. Fear makes us blind to what is actually happening.

The next time you are in a scary situation and feel like you are seeing a ghost, take a deep breath, it may be our Savior bringing you peace.

Amen

Eric is our associate pastor, working with outreach and youth ministry as well as adult discipleship and growth. Eric retired from a 28-year career in public education as a high school band director in 2019 and is now living his lifelong dream as a pastor. Eric and his wife, Diana, continue to live in Henry County where they have been lifetime residents. They "raised" three children and are now making their best attempt at "raising" themselves.