One Word from God

I've been reading a lot of books in the last year, possibly more than any 5 years in my life. Recently, I've come across a chapter that has just "stopped me." What I mean by that is this chapter has challenged my way of looking at things. It's been the catalyst for an epiphany in my life.

This chapter I'm referring to is about having courage to face current reality. So many times people walk in denial of their surroundings. Understanding current reality, and seeing it clearly, is as important as having a clear vision.

Too often people want to believe things are good. Then these people put a positive spin on the results. Finally, over a period of time, people lose sight of what is actually happening around them.

Then I read the following:

The church is a prime example. Every year denominational leaders gather at conventions to compare statistics, hand out awards, and listen to speeches. Over the course of a year, hundreds of millions of dollars are spent on programming and weekly services. All of this is done under the banner of "making disciples," or "transforming lives." But the truth is that there is very little to show for all the meetings, messages, and mothers' mornings out. The church is making far more dinners than disciples. And while there is a general awareness that things are not going well, the average church attendee is content to show up once a week, do his time, and pretend that all is fine. (excerpt from "Next Generation Leader" by Andy Stanley)

WOW!

This has just really affected ME, and the way I think. Add to this, the services that Cindy & I were in on Sunday (7/24/16) with Tim Storey, and the life-changing messages we received ... then that excerpt above takes on an even stronger meaning.

One Word from God can change your life. The Word of God is life! When that "seed" of life (God's Word) is planted within your heart, then it will produce the life of God within you.

There's more to this epiphany ... to this revelation. God is doing a work in me. I sense it. I'm experiencing it. It's mostly still on the inside yet. However, those who truly know me, can probably see something, even though it may be a small transformation, at this time. It's just the beginning. Despise not the day of small beginnings. The small beginnings have the capabilities of growing into something great. Wait on the Lord ... He knows the plans that He has for you, plans for good and not for evil, so that you might have a future and a hope!

So, I'm waiting on Him to complete the work that He has begun in me. I appreciate your prayers. I'm excited about what He has in store for Cindy & I.

May God bless you, and make you a blessing to others.

Bishop Dennis