Pastor Thoughts - November 2022

November 2022

A Thought from Pastor Bryson,

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:18 NKJV)

We recently held our servant-leaders retreat and the theme was “Pressing Our Way Beyond the Pandemic.” I shared with the leaders that were present that the pandemic cost us as a church. For two years we did not gather for corporate worship, and it cost us as a church. It cost us loss of fellowship, loss of vibrancy, loss of commitment, and loss of youth. But thankfully, we were able to continue worship through live streaming and still do ministry to others. Some churches were not as fortunate.

But since we have reopened for corporate worship, not all members are embracing being in the corporate setting. A valid question is on the table – how can we regain the momentum we had before the pandemic? There are a variety of answers and strategies we could consider. One I strongly believe in and recommend – PRAY.

I’m currently reading a book written by Lori Hatcher – “refresh your prayers.” One chapter is entitled – Pray for the Bride of Christ. In that chapter she states the following:

{The church is a force for societal transformation, but it’s also our only hope for spiritual transformation. Social programs address the symptoms of a sin-sick world, but the gospel, shared through the church changes hearts.

Today’s church is flawed, frail, and floundering, but it is still the bride of Christ, beloved of God and holy…. This is why we must pray for the church. Pray the church will be faithful and obedient to:

1. Proclaim the truth of God’s Word in love and without compromise (2 Timothy 4:2).

2. Share the gospel with boldness and power (Acts 4:12).

3. Remain deeply committed to prayer (Colossians 4:2).

4. Call godly men and women to serve the body and lead by example (Ephesians 4:11-12).

5. Remain pure and separated from the world and its evil influences (James 1:27).

6. Grow in wisdom, maturity, and influence (Colossians 1:28-29).

7. Remain faithful to Jesus, its first love (Revelation 2:4-5).

8. Rely on God and trust His timing and direction as He builds the church (Matthew 16:18).

9. Recognize and reject satan’s schemes (2 Corinthians 11:3).

10. Shine the light of Christ into our dark world (Matthew 5:14-16).}

Yes, the pandemic did a number on the world and impacted churches, causing challenges. But the pandemic did not change the responsibility of the church to keep faith in God and be about His business.

As people of faith, we will trust God to see us through as we PRAY our way through. Remember, we are to walk by faith and not by sight. God always takes care of “His” church.