Sunday Words of Encouragement May 25, 2014

This morning we celebrated the ministry of our associate, youth pastor and his family as they are leaving our church after twelve years. They have been faithful and loved as they ministered to our youth and children and as his wife ministered through music, playing piano and organ. Pastor D. recently completed his doctorate in theology. Although he does not yet have a new position, he feels that God has called him to move. He compared that to Abraham being willing to begin the journey even though he did not know God's full plans.

The parents thanked the congregation for the strong support, example and growth they have provided over the years. This Pastor D. likened to the Philippians and the joy they brought to Paul in his ministry. Even as Paul was in prison in Rome he remembered the support he received with joy. Phil 1:3-8. Pastor D. reminded us that this would be a change not only for his family but for our church family. He is confident that God has a great plan for both. As Paul said in verse 6: “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

I appreciated the prayer he shared from Paul's letter to the Philippians which I share below.

This song is taken from Philippians 1:6.

Philippians 1:9-11 (NIV)
9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

Thank you Lord for those who are faithful in their service to you. Please bless Pastor D and his family as they respond to your call. Please guide our congregation to abound in love and knowledge to do Your will for service to Your glory.