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Pastor's Post for September "Five Truths In Serving"

I have been amazed at the ways I have seen God work in recent days. I would like to off er a heart felt THANK YOU for the countless people who had a part in making our Fall Out of Summer Spectacular such a big success. Those type of events let our community know we are here to lift up Christ, share the gospel and build our community. Many attended from the community and we have some great leads to follow up on. Also, as we finalize plans for our committees for next year, I am praying that everyone will seek God's direction in where He wants them to serve. Here are some great reminders for anyone who is seeking to serve God from 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24

1) RESPECT AND ENCOURAGE THOSE WHO WORK HARD AMONG AND OVER YOU

The challenge is to love and RESPECT people for WHO THEY ARE and not just what they do. God has placed great, and sometimes not so great, people around and over me. Whether I always agree or not, there still must be that RESPECT factor, pledge for prayer/support, and an openness to be taught and molded as God directs them.

2) WARN THOSE WHO ARE LAZY

Pray for the Lord to lead us to those in our pews and chairs that are comfortable to just sit, soak up the teaching and walk away unchanged. They may be the very person we will need to fight the battle with us if they get motivated. Just a reminder, our approach should be out of love for them, not hopes of what they can do for us.

3) ENCOURAGE THOSE WHO ARE TIMID

Who has God put in your life to give an encouraging "push" to attempt something for God whether it be in your family, career, or church?

4) TAKE "TENDER" CARE OF THOSE WHO ARE WEAK

We all will be weak at one time or another and we do not need someone to give us a spiritual version of "I Told You So". I envision the picture of the shepherd who carries the wayward lamb on his shoulders. There are times when we don't have the strength to walk, praise God He always brings us the right help at the right time. Who among us is weak?

5) BE PATIENT WITH "EVERYONE"

Some of the toughest spiritual battles I have encountered have been within the walls of a church. I remember someone writing about seeing a bumper sticker that said "Lord Protect Me From Your People". Unfortunately, I can identify with that as most anyone can who has spent time in any church. As I look back though, often those difficult situations always gave a platform for God to work in my life and teach me more about God's love, forgiveness and patience. Just as we are to love and forgive as Jesus did, so are we to show patience. I am so thankful that people have been patient with me.

God is ALWAYS at work. Remember today that He is faithful and has a plan for you. We are not alone! If God has called us to it, then He will see us through it. Greater things are ahead.

In Him,
Pastor James
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