From the Pastor’s Pen
February 16, 2026
Mt. Vernon Family,
What a powerful time we had in worship on yesterday. The Spirit of the Lord met us in a mighty way as we leaned into the Word and were reminded that if you Stay Ready, you don’t have to get ready.
From Romans 6:10–18, we were challenged to understand that because Christ died to sin once and lives unto God, we too are called to live dressed, disciplined, and delivered. We cannot afford to walk casually into a spiritual battlefield. The enemy does not send calendar invites before he schemes. He does not text you before temptation. He does not knock before he attacks.
That is why we must stay ready.
The Apostle reminds us that we are no longer slaves to sin but servants of righteousness. And when you belong to Christ, you do not fight for victory. You fight from victory. But you still must be dressed for the battle.
Here are some practical ways to stay ready this week:
1. Guard Your Mind Daily
Start your day with Scripture before you start scrolling. What you feed your mind shapes your mood. Choose truth over trends.
2. Govern Your Mouth Carefully
The enemy loves careless conversations. Speak life. Refuse gossip. Pray before you respond.
3. Ground Yourself in Prayer
Do not wait until trouble shows up to start praying. A ready believer has a regular prayer life. Five focused minutes can shift your entire day.
4. Give No Place to Sin
Romans 6 reminds us not to let sin reign in our mortal bodies. That means avoiding environments, conversations, and habits that weaken your witness.
5. Get Connected to Community
Isolation makes you vulnerable. Stay linked to your church family. Check on someone. Ask for prayer. Accountability keeps you armored.
Family, the enemy will try to discourage, distract, and divide. But when you are clothed in Christ and committed to righteousness, you can stand firm. And after you have done all to stand, you will still be standing.
Let us be a church that is not caught off guard. Let us be Effective in Ministry and Powerful in Impact because we are spiritually prepared.
Stay ready this week.
With gratitude and expectation,
Pastor Richard Williams, Jr.
Mt. Vernon Missionary Baptist Church