God's Blessings Require Action On Our Part

Last night in our Life Group we discussed the Biblical promise of God's provision that probably most of us have quoted at one time or another, "and my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches and glory..." (Phil. 4:19). The problem is, as with most promises we quote from scripture, is that we take that verse out of context. Paul wrote that letter from prison to a group of believers that had been actively engaged in supporting him and meeting his needs. Paul's response to their generosity was a prayer and promise that as they took care of his needs God would take care of theirs.

There is a lesson there for us. If we want God to take care of our needs; personally, for our families, for our country, and for our church then we have to continue to minister, reach out, and take care of others. God's "promise" of provision follows our providing for the needs of others. God is faithful in response to our faithfulness as believers.

As we pray for needs to be met and for our church to prosper let's not forget our role in all of this... meeting the needs of others. We love Pastor Ray and Vicki and the kids, but now it is our responsibility to step up and stand in the gap. Let's not stockpile a list of "to-do's" for our new pastor. Rather, let's welcome a new pastor with everything in order, ministries continuing strong, new souls being added to the Kingdom, and a strong and vibrant church.

Yes, God will supply all our needs, individually and corporately. The question is, what are we doing to supply the needs of others?

Something to think about...

Lead Strong,
Shawn

Life Groups are more important than ever now...

Wow, I don't know about you but we're sad to see Ray and Vicki and the kids move on but truly believe God is in their move and with us at FNC. I am excited to see what God has in store for us as a congregation and I know that we will continue to see the fruit of Ray's ministry over the coming years. However, now is a crucial time for Life Groups to hold our members steady. I have already heard people express fear that people will vacate the church while we wait on the Lord to bring us a new pastor. None of us want that to happen and as Life Groups we can help maintain balance and normalcy for FNC.

If you do not currently attend a Life Group I encourage you to find one. There is a complete listing on the Life Group bulletin board at church with times and locations. And we have the Life Support Sunday School class that meets each Sunday morning. Find a Life Group and get plugged in.

Life Group leaders, don't let your Life Group members start missing, stay in touch with them, be their pastor. Now is a prime time to reach out to people not involved in Life Groups and offer them spiritual stability and better prepare all of us for the transition.

Remember to keep sending your attendance reports, prayer and praise reports, etc. to Rochelle at rochellefouts@yahoo.com. Also, don't forget our new SS class Life Support if you do not already have a class. I appreciate all of you.

Lead Strong...
Shawn