I want to encourage you to keep up the good work as we enter the third week of "Imagine." Developing good habits and building faith takes time and effort. The old body builder's slogan is applicable to spiritual growth because, "No pain; No gain." So don't give up if you get behind in your daily devotionals. Don't get discouraged if you get stumped by a question. Don't let busyness keep you from worship and your Life Group.
All week I have heard from fellow members who are excited about how God is using this church-wide focus to help them get closer to the Lord. There was not a dry eye in the Life Group I attend when people began sharing their stories of how they came to Christ. One young lady told our group that when she was invited to Fort Caroline she was in a state of depression and had lost all hope for her life. She said that while she was feeling hopeless she thought that perhaps the church could give her kids some joy in life. So she brought the kids to AWANA. She later heard about our Celebrate Recovery program. She said that when she came to church she understood God's Word as it was preached. She realized that all this time she had a religion but not a relationship. She asked Christ to forgive her and was saved! I had the honor of baptizing her not long ago! She shared her testimony with our class and we all were reminded of why we do what we do as a church!
Here is an e-mail that I received today that is reflective of what I'm hearing. Read it below and be blessed! How is God blessing your life through "Imagine?"
Ricky,
I am very excited over Imagine. I have been praying for you, our Church & for lives to be touched & changed. Let me tell you about some of the changes I've seen.
Cheryl & I attend Rod Hill & Tony Gillette's Life Group, last Sunday we were discussing our individual stories where our life began with Christ, two people who rarely participate in discussions were the first to volunteer. It was amazing not only to hear them speak but to hear their testimony. God is definitely working on their life & through this study. What a Great stepping stone to Ch. 3.
I thank God for you, our Staff & for His spirit filled work that is being accomplished through this Church. I will continue to pray for you, Imagine & for changed lives.
In Him,
Scott Wood