The power of influence
The impact that people have had on my life spiritually has been a huge blessing. The first person that I am thankful for is my Father. He is a pastor and has faithfully served the Lord in ministry for over thirty years. He spent time with us as a family each day by leading us to pray and talk about spiritual things. I remember many times that we had Bible studies and we did not necessarily want to and he was patient and never let up. The impact that he has had on my life is because he was authentic. He displayed a life of sacrifice for ministry and the family. Through his example I learned how to walk with God. The second person is my Mom who was patient and encouraging to my brothers and me to grow in God. She has a great heart to serve people and many times our house was full of people that needed encouragement. She has continually encouraged me to serve Christ with my life. I am truly blessed beyond what I deserve and pray that my life can be a blessing upon others.
My brothers have had an impact on my life in great ways. Jordan, my younger brother has left the biggest influence on my life. He went to be with Jesus on August 2008 through a battle with cancer. He was a warrior for Christ and continues to show me that “to live is Christ and die is gain.” His funeral was a day before his 21st birthday and although I miss him terribly, he always told me that if it was his time to go, then He was ready to be in the presence of Jesus. I pray that my life can reflect his perseverance and peace.
Fourth, my mentor Tod Tanner had a large impact on my growth as a person. He spent time as my professor in college to listen and challenge me to grow in the Lord. Through his many tough questions and encouragement, I was able to find ways to work through the tough areas of my life. He continues to be a committed voice by speaking into my life by offering wisdom and the right questions to lead me to know what is most important.
Fifth, my friend and mentor in ministry is Adam Hammond. He married me and Cassidy in Belleview, Florida. Adam is a great example of someone that helps encourage others. He always makes time to talk with me and give me wise advice on life and choices. He is godly man and father and is not swayed by all of the new fads but is consistent. I pray that I can emulate Him in his desire to lead students and families to love Christ.
Lastly, my wife has been the bedrock of a foundation for me. We have been married for over two years and as time goes by, she continually shows me what true grace and mercy looks like, especially because she has to put up with me! She gives of her time to mentor girls in her small group and I can see a true burden for their lives. Looking at the people in my life that have influenced me for Christ has shown me that I am blessed beyond what I ever deserve.
The Need for Small Group ministry
The importance of small groups is vital for the church to become fully devoted followers of Christ. The need for small groups is vital to people learning how to grow in their walk with God and each other. The Bible gives us the foundation of spiritual growth within the Christian community.In the Old Testament we see the importance of the unity between God and man in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1:27). God set up an important relationship between Adam and Eve. The sin that separated them from God was relational. The need for community was in place after the fall of Adam and Eve. Small groups are the foundation to build people into mature disciples. In the New Testament, Jesus set the example of pouring His life into the disciples. He spent a majority of his time explaining and living out the truth of God’s Word. Jesus did not spend his time mainly with the multitudes, but with a small group of world changers (Matt. 13:36). Jesus set the example that the early church continued when He ascended into Heaven. The early church was built upon small groups of people caring for each other and growing as disciples. In Acts 2:46-47 it says, “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” The early church is a great example of people that loved each other and spent their time and efforts on building relationships (Acts 2:46, 12:12, 20:8, 20:20; Rom. 16:4-5; I Cor. 16:19; Col. 4:5; Philemon 2). In James 5:16 it says, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” One main issue is to support one another to become producers of action packed faith. Small groups are one of the best ways for people to learn and grow in their faith. God’s Word reveals the redemptive history of mankind’s need for a Saviour. The essence of small groups is creating an environment where people can open up to one another and grow spiritually. Healthy small groups are essential for any church to lead people into a growing relationships with Christ.
Monday Minute
"Monday Minutes" are weekly blog updates on what is going on in my life. Here are just a few random thoughts for today. Hope you enjoy!
- God is working in many lives in the church lately. Thankful to see students and adults seek God
- I'm heading to Birmingham today, I have a procedure on Tuesday morning. To be honest, I'm not looking forward to it, but hopefully it will reveal what is happening and how to treat it.
- Thankful for my wonderful wife. She was out of town visiting her sister and Mom this past weekend. Although it was only a few days, I missed her a lot.
- I get to see my parents today in Birmingham, although it is not the best circumstances to meet them, I'm grateful.
- I begin my last two seminary classes this week from Liberty. Almost finished with the MRE degree. whew!
- Praying through some thoughts to continue in seminary, not sure if I'm crazy or what!
- I must say the Texas Rangers beating the Yankees the other night was awesome to see. Josh Hamilton gave the glory to God and is truly a picture of God's grace.
- Can you believe it is almost November?
- Out of curiosity, if you actually read my blog, send me a comment sometime and let me know. At times, I think I'm just writing and only a few ever read!