This Sunday we are kicking off a new series called The Days of Elijah. Over the next several weeks we will get to know Elijah, whose name means “The Lord is my God.” We are going to see that Elijah lived up to his name as he courageously stood firm in his faith while navigating through dark and challenging times. I hope you plan to join us for the next several weeks, and I pray that we all learn from Elijah’s example of courage and humility.
This week we are conducting our annual staff retreat. Our staff has taken some time to be sharpened and encouraged by one another. I am so thankful that God has blessed our church with such a dynamic team of gifted and passionate servants. I’m personally blessed by our staff, and I know our entire church is as well. I encourage you to do two things this week that will return that blessing back to them.
First, take some time to encourage the staff. Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” A good word can go a long way in a staff member’s heart. Thank them for what they do and affirm the Godly character and gifts that you see in them. Don’t just celebrate what they do, celebrate who they are.
Second, find ways to partner with them in ministry. Ephesians 4:11-12 says, “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” God did not give leadership to the church to do all the work themselves, but rather to equip the church to do the work of ministry more effectively.
Where are you serving right now at ABC? The reality is our church is growing, especially in the children’s area. We have joined over 100 new members in the last 7 months, and we need more members of this faith family to step up and find their place to serve. You will never truly grow in your faith until you learn to exercise your faith through service to others. Contact a staff member and ask how you can help. Your availability will be a blessing to them, but I also know you will end up being blessed through your service to the church.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday at. 8:45 or 11:15am. Bring a friend and come ready to worship with us.
Onward and upward,
Jonathan Spencer
www.jonathanspencer.org 