In 1 Peter 3:15, it says to “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Has anyone ever asked you to do that? Would you be ready to share with them about your experience of coming to know Jesus Christ as your personal savior? Would you be able to tell them of your growing faith in Him? There are some who not only want to hear about how you came to know Jesus, they want to know the truth you stand on. It is the perfect opportunity to show them from God’s Word, the solid foundation you stand on. Let me encourage you to read the Word of God daily, attend a Bible Study, and get involved in a Boost Class on Wednesday nights this fall. We need to be students of God’s Word and work to apply the truths we find each and every day. There is no such thing as a growing, stagnant Christian. The maturing Christian will be passionate about their relationship with Jesus. They will be able to share with gentleness and respect as this verse goes on to say.
One way to learn God’s Word is to study it like you are going to teach it. Many of our teachers find themselves growing more and more because they are studying to teach others. Maybe this fall you may have an opportunity to help teach a class or assist someone in teaching a class. I know we always have space for more children’s workers in an ever-growing ministry.
This week has been our Vacation Bible Adventure. It has been an exciting week. We have seen over 150 children attend each night. I am observing a lot of people come together, utilizing their gifts, and seeing many children learning what it is to be a follower of Jesus Christ. We are so blessed with so many loving volunteers who have approached this week with so much spirit-filled energy. It has taken over 50 people to pull this week off. I am so grateful that Pastor Tracy gives ministry away and doesn’t try to do it on her own. She would be the first to admit that she can’t. None of us can do it alone. Together we are truly better than we are by ourselves. The task force that was put together to lead this VBA is seeing the fruit of their labor. On Sunday we will be thanking this group and many others who made this week possible.
I have been picking up a few kids on the bus this week. These kids love coming to this church. They know and experience the power of Jesus through the love and care that so many people give away at this church. Last night they didn’t want to get off the bus. One of them even said that they wanted to go home with us. I thank the Lord daily for spirit-filled people who love the Lord with all of their heart and love these children the same. Thank you for being Jesus to people who are hungry for more than what this world offers.
Following the second service on Sunday, we will transition the gym and start our indoor picnic. Take the time to get to know some new people who have been attending as well as getting to know others you may only see on Sundays. There will be plenty of activities out on the lawn for anyone to participate in. It’s going to be a great day. I’m looking forward to seeing the Lord move in a new way.
Joy in Jesus!
Pastor Mike
www.findlayfirstnaz.org
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