Haiku-Pauwela Church Conference

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Haiku-Pauwela, a small, peaceful town nestled on the north shore of Maui, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and close-knit community spirit. With a population of just around 9,245, this town is a place where people come together, whether it’s for a friendly chat at the Pauwela store or a shared passion for outdoor activities like hiking and ziplining. Haiku-Pauwela has a way of making everyone feel included, and its friendly, safe environment is one that many residents hold dear. Recently, the community gathered at the local church for a powerful church conference, where Raya, a guest speaker from the mainland, shared her inspiring message on faith, choice, and the importance of spiritual growth in today’s world.

The conference took place in the heart of Haiku-Pauwela, where the scent of the ocean mingled with the fresh breeze from the surrounding trails. This idyllic setting set the stage for an event that would encourage everyone to deepen their relationship with God while fostering a stronger sense of community. The church, with its welcoming atmosphere, was filled with people from all walks of life—families from the area, long-time residents, and even those who had only recently settled in Haiku-Pauwela. As the attendees gathered, there was a sense of anticipation in the air.

Raya, the speaker, began by acknowledging the beautiful simplicity of life in Haiku-Pauwela. She spoke of the peace that the town exuded and how that same tranquility can be found in a life centered around God. “In the quiet moments,” Raya said, “God speaks the loudest. It’s in the stillness that we can truly hear His voice.” She encouraged everyone to take a moment each day to quiet their hearts and minds, just as the town itself provided a natural refuge from the hustle and bustle of the world.

She went on to speak about the power of choice. Drawing from the wisdom of scripture, Raya explained that God, in His infinite love, gives every individual the freedom to choose their path. “God’s healing is available to us all, but He doesn’t force it upon us. He gives us the power to choose,” Raya emphasized. “We must choose to embrace that healing, to walk in the light of His love, and to exercise our free will in ways that bring honor to Him.” This idea resonated deeply with the attendees, as many of them had experienced firsthand the importance of making the right choices, not just for themselves but for the community as well.

Raya also addressed the issue of how Christianity is sometimes represented in the media. She reflected on the damaging portrayals of Christian leaders who seek fame and fortune, tarnishing the image of the faith. “It’s crucial that we, as believers, be mindful of how we represent Christ to the world,” Raya said. “We are called to be His ambassadors, not for our personal gain but to glorify His name.” This message struck a chord with the congregation, especially in a town like Haiku-Pauwela, where simplicity and humility are highly valued.

The discussion then shifted to the idea of spiritual maturity. Raya shared her thoughts on how the church is meant to build up the body of Christ, bringing believers to a place of maturity in their faith. Drawing from Ephesians 4, she explained that the role of the church is not only to evangelize but also to help people grow spiritually so they can minister to others. “We must move beyond the basics of faith and strive for deeper, more meaningful connections with God,” she urged. “It’s not enough to simply believe; we must live out our faith in a way that transforms our hearts and lives.”

The importance of love and humility in relationships was another key theme of the conference. Raya shared her thoughts on how relationships, particularly within marriages, require mutual respect and submission. “When we choose to love selflessly, we reflect the love Christ has for us,” she said. “This is the foundation of every relationship, whether it’s between a husband and wife, friends, or even within the church community.”

As the conference continued, Raya shared stories of personal transformation, including the testimony of a man who had turned his life around after being involved in a life of crime. This man’s powerful testimony spoke of how Christ had entered his life and completely changed him from the inside out. “It’s not just about what we’ve done; it’s about what God has done in us,” Raya explained. “When we surrender our lives to Christ, we become new creations. The old has gone, and the new has come.”

The conference also highlighted the importance of discerning God’s will in our lives. Raya spoke of how the Holy Spirit guides believers in making decisions and knowing what is right. She explained that the Spirit is not only present in moments of worship but in every aspect of life. “When we listen to the Spirit, we are led to make choices that align with God’s purpose for us,” Raya said. “The Spirit empowers us to live out our faith with strength and conviction.”

In the afternoon, the community gathered outside for a time of fellowship. As the sun set over the ocean, families and friends shared meals, stories, and laughter. The Pauwela store, with its reputation for treating everyone like family, provided the ingredients for a delicious meal, bringing people together in the spirit of community. The warmth and connection shared among the attendees was a true reflection of the themes discussed throughout the day.

Raya concluded her message by reminding everyone that while Haiku-Pauwela offers a peaceful environment, true peace comes only through a relationship with God. “You may live in a safe, beautiful place, but without God’s peace in your heart, it’s impossible to experience the fullness of life,” she said. “Let us be a community that chooses to walk in His peace, His love, and His truth every day.”

The church conference in Haiku-Pauwela was not just an event but a call to action—a reminder that each person has the power to make choices that align with God’s will. It was a day of reflection, transformation, and renewal. As the community of Haiku-Pauwela left the church that evening, they did so with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that they were part of something much bigger than themselves. They were a part of a community united in faith, bound together by the love of God.

Church Newsletter in Honolulu

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Dear Church Family,

As we continue to grow in faith and community, it’s important to reflect on the place God has placed us and how we can make the most of it. Today, I want to take a moment to consider the unique setting in which we live—the vibrant and diverse city of Honolulu.

There’s something to say about urban living, even in a Pacific tropical paradise like ours. Honolulu is a perfect fit for families who have grown accustomed to the hustle and bustle of urban life and want to experience all that the Hawaiian Islands have to offer. With a population of 343,437, Honolulu is Hawaii’s largest city by far. It serves as the central hub for not only the Hawaiian Islands but also a connection to the rest of the country and the world. In this dynamic, fast-paced environment, we have the privilege of living in a place where diverse cultures, ideas, and experiences meet.

A Safe Harbor in the Urban Tide

When we think of the challenges of living in an urban center, safety is often at the forefront of our minds. But Honolulu stands out in this area. Compared to many other cities of its size, Honolulu is relatively safe, with a crime rate nearly 5 points lower than the national average. In fact, its crime rate is considered meager for a city of its size, which offers a sense of peace and security to families living here. It’s a reminder to be thankful for the safety God has provided, while also being vigilant in prayer for our neighbors and our community.

For those seeking a home, Honolulu offers a variety of options. The median home price is $818,700, which, while still a significant investment, may be within reach for many families—especially when compared to the steep prices in some of Hawaii’s smaller towns or beachside locations. Whether you’re renting or buying, this city provides a solid foundation for those who wish to settle here and raise their families.

Blessed with Amenities and Resources

Many of us have friends or family who visit Honolulu as vacationers, and it’s easy to see why they fall in love with this city. From top-notch shopping and dining to rich cultural experiences, there’s no shortage of activities that make Honolulu such a special place. But as residents, we also have a lot to be proud of when it comes to the practical aspects of daily life here.

Healthcare is readily available, and the city boasts a variety of public and private schools that meet the needs of all families. Additionally, Honolulu is known for having one of the best public transit systems in the world, making it easier for us to get around and explore all that our island home has to offer. With all these blessings at our disposal, we are reminded to be good stewards of the resources God has provided, making use of the amenities available to us while always keeping our hearts focused on His purposes.

Honolulu as a Mission Field

But there’s more to our urban living than just conveniences and comforts. As believers, we are called to be a light in the world, and Honolulu, with its diverse population and bustling energy, provides us with a unique opportunity to fulfill that mission. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus calls us to be the light of the world, shining brightly for all to see. And in a city as vibrant and diverse as Honolulu, there are countless opportunities to share His love with others.

In the workplace, at school, or even in the neighborhood, we have the chance to be witnesses to God’s grace and truth. Just as Jesus interacted with those from all walks of life—reaching out to the lost, the broken, and the marginalized—we too are called to engage with our community, showing compassion and extending the love of Christ to everyone we meet. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness or engaging in deeper conversations about faith, we can make a difference in the lives of those around us.

The city’s diverse population provides a rich tapestry of opportunities for ministry. People from all over the world call Honolulu home, and we, as a church, are called to reflect that diversity. We must continue to open our hearts to our neighbors, no matter their background, and seek ways to serve them in love.

Living with Purpose in the City

Urban living often means a busy, fast-paced lifestyle, and it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work, school, and daily responsibilities. But in the midst of this, we are reminded of our higher calling in Christ. Colossians 3:23 reminds us that whatever we do, we should work at it with all our heart, as working for the Lord and not for human masters. Whether we’re raising children, working in our careers, or serving in the community, we are called to do everything with a heart that honors God.

As we experience the joys and challenges of urban living, we are reminded that we do not live for ourselves but for God and His glory. Our time in Honolulu is an opportunity to grow in our relationship with Him, to strengthen our community, and to spread His love throughout the city. We are also called to be good stewards of the blessings we have received, using our resources and talents to serve God’s purposes here on Earth.

Looking Ahead with Hope

As we continue to call Honolulu our home, let us remember that this is more than just a place to live—it’s a mission field, a community, and a city that God has strategically placed us in for His purposes. As we live out our faith here, we can be confident that God is with us every step of the way, guiding us, strengthening us, and giving us the wisdom to navigate the complexities of urban life.

Let’s continue to embrace the unique opportunities that come with urban living in Honolulu. Let us be intentional about making a difference in the lives of those around us, sharing the love of Christ through our actions and words. And as we do so, may we always keep our eyes on the ultimate goal: to glorify God and make His name known in our city and beyond.

With love and blessings,
Tilly
Newsletter Writer

Sermon Preached in Holualoa

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Good evening, everyone! What a blessing it is to be gathered here in the beautiful town of Holualoa, a place known for its peace, its rich coffee culture, and its thriving arts scene. Tonight, I want to talk about something far more precious than coffee or art. I want to talk about the authority of Jesus Christ and what that means for us as believers.

Let’s turn to Mark 1:21. It says that Jesus went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and taught, and the people were astonished. Now, astonished is a strong word. It means they were absolutely amazed, awestruck by His doctrine. But why? Was it because He used complex words? Because He quoted the greatest rabbis? No! It was because of how He taught—with authority!

Unlike the religious leaders of the time who debated theories and left people confused, Jesus spoke with certainty. He didn’t say, “Well, some scholars believe this, while others say that, so you decide for yourself.” No! He said, “This is what God says, and this is what it is!” And the people marveled because they had never heard anyone teach like that before.

Holualoa, a town built on volcanic history, reminds us of the power that shapes landscapes. But there is no greater power than the authority of Jesus Christ! And I want you to grasp tonight that His authority wasn’t just something He used in His teachings—it was evident in everything He did, in His miracles, and in how He dealt with the enemy.

Mark 1:23 tells us that while Jesus was teaching, a man with an unclean spirit cried out. The demon said, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us?” The devil himself recognized the authority of Jesus! And how did Jesus respond? Did He panic? Did He gather people to intercede for hours? No! He simply said, “Be quiet, and come out of him.” And the demon had no choice but to obey.

Church, listen to me. The devil thrives in an environment of fear, but Jesus never operated in fear—He operated in authority! And that same authority is given to us as believers. But too many Christians live in defeat because they don’t understand their authority in Christ.

When trouble comes, do you stand firm and say, “In Jesus’ name, this has to go,” or do you panic and cry, “Oh Lord, what am I going to do?” The enemy feeds off fear, but when you resist him in faith, he has no choice but to flee. James 4:7 tells us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” It doesn’t say he might flee. It says he will!

Some of you here tonight need to stop letting the devil run your life. You need to rise up in your God-given authority and tell the enemy, “Enough is enough!” Whether it’s sickness, depression, fear, or oppression—whatever the devil is using to try and keep you bound—you have the authority in Jesus’ name to command it to leave.

Let me tell you something: The power of God is not just in His hand or in His arm—it’s in His very finger! In Luke 11:20, Jesus said, “If I cast out devils by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” The devil isn’t some mighty force equal to God—he’s a defeated foe who trembles at the presence of God’s power! If just the finger of God can cast out demons, how much more powerful is His entire hand upon your life?

Now, some might say, “Well, that was Jesus. We can’t expect to operate like Him.” But that’s not what the Bible teaches. Jesus operated as a man anointed by the Holy Spirit. Acts 10:38 says, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed of the devil.” If Jesus did this as the Son of God alone, we wouldn’t have a chance. But He showed us how to live as Spirit-filled believers.

So why do we hesitate? Why do we struggle with fear and doubt? It’s because the enemy wants to keep us in ignorance. He knows that a believer who understands their authority is a believer who cannot be stopped!

I’ll share a testimony with you. There was a man named Kenneth E. Hagin, a great minister of God, who had a vision of Jesus. During that vision, a little demon-like creature began making noise and trying to block his view of Jesus. Brother Hagin thought, “Why doesn’t Jesus make him stop?” But Jesus kept talking as if He didn’t even notice the demon. Finally, out of frustration, Brother Hagin commanded the creature to be silent in the name of Jesus, and instantly, it fell and the disturbance ceased.

Afterward, Jesus told him something powerful: “If you hadn’t done something about that, I couldn’t have.” Brother Hagin was shocked! He thought, “Surely You meant You wouldn’t.” But Jesus replied, “No, I meant I couldn’t.” And He showed him scriptures proving that the authority to resist the devil has been given to us, not something God does for us.

Ephesians 4:27 says, “Neither give place to the devil.” That means it’s up to us not to allow him to operate in our lives. Too many people pray, “Oh God, please make the devil stop,” when God has already given us the authority to stop him!

Holualoa, just like this town is known for its history of movement—sledding down the volcanoes—we are called to move with power and authority in Christ. It’s time to stop living in fear, stop tolerating the enemy’s lies, and start walking in the victory that Jesus purchased for us.

Tonight, I challenge you to take hold of the authority that has been given to you. Speak to the mountains in your life and tell them to move. Speak to the sickness and tell it to leave. Speak to the darkness and command it to flee. And know that when you stand in the authority of Jesus Christ, the enemy has no choice but to obey!

Let’s pray: Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, we declare victory over every attack of the enemy. We take hold of the authority You have given us, and we choose to walk in it daily. Strengthen our faith, open our eyes to Your truth, and help us to live boldly in the power of Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

God bless you, Holualoa! Walk in your authority!