During his testimony video, Jacob Berry shared that his favorite Bible verse is 2 Timothy 1:7: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” RT Kendall cites this verse as being the clearest way to recognize the presence of God’s Spirit (i.e. the Holy Spirit) in our lives, ministries, churches, etc.
I see God’s power at work in how he is leading key individuals to try new things. We’ve had record numbers of new individuals step-up to go on retreats, serve in missions, share their gifts in worship, etc. A spirit-led church is not a passive church, and I believe many are waking up to this realization within our fellowship.
I see God’s love at work in how many of you do things that edify others in and around our fellowship, without it being part of a “program” or special emphasis. These actions are usually unrecognized and anonymous to the larger part of our congregation, but are one of the biggest indicators I see of God at work! I have witnessed you all bringing meals to the homebound, sharing the Gospel and your testimony with your neighbors, helping the homeless and unemployed regain their livelihood, providing spiritual leadership/direction to those searching, bearing medical/psychological burdens alongside one another, etc.
I see Spirit of self-discipline or self-control at work in the consistency and faithfulness of many of you to teach the Bible, prepare meals, work with kids, operate behind the scenes, and give of your resources.
Join me in praising the Lord for his Spirit at work in our midst, and let us work together to keep from quenching it!
Blessings,
Pastor Matt
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