“A wise man’s hear guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.”
(Proverbs 16:23 NIV)
Greetings in the wonderful name of our Lord and King, Jesus Christ! Certainly I’m at awe with the blessings of God that are being continually showered upon us at Bethel. We will not take for granted nor consider nonchalant the move of God in this place!
New Bethel during my pastorate has been on the cutting edge with developing ministry outside-the-box. Today we are having a ‘mini’ ministry’ fair that will allow you to check out many of the ministries we have here at Bethel. And while there are some ministries that we are yet working on developing (or re-developing), you will be able to find a ministry that you can become actively involved with. Please take time after the morning service and stop at one of the ministry tables.
Also, as we stay on the cutting edge, this year’s GYM (Grow Your Ministry) Conference is going to the next level! We are introducing a ‘webinar conference’ that utilizes today’s technology to reach a potential audience throughout the country… and the world with impacting teaching. How aptly that the theme this year is “Ministry Beyond Culture & Tradition!” And joining me with the presentations will be Dr. Valerie Crumpton of Potters House in TX, Alexandra Burrell, former Assistant Dean of Howard University, Timothy Christian, CEO of Night Fox Entertainment, and many more! I hope you’ll make plans to participate on September 1st & 2nd.
It is important that you understand where your place in purpose is and then… “Be True to Your Heart!” Many have testified that they had to make critical choices for their life by following their heart in submitting their will to God’s plan for them. So when the people of God declared to Moses, “…tell us whatever the Lord our God tells you. We will listen and obey.” (Deut. 5:27 NIV) The Lord responded, “I have heard what this people said to you. Everything was good. Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands forever…” (Deut 5:28 NIV)
God’s dream is for man to have a heart (or desire) to serve and fear Him… those who would be obedient and keep all his commands. Many will verbalize their commitment, but in reality do not follow through. David encouraged us to, “Commit thy way unto the Lord.” (Psalm 37:5). But commitment has to come from the heart, not just what is said with your mouth. That’s why the Proverb writer said it this way, “A wise man’s heart guides his mouth and his lips to promote instruction.” The real truth of ‘who you are’ is determined by one’s heart because, “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he…” (Prov. 23:7)
Be blessed and today expect a miracle! Remember what the Lord has declared, this is… “The Year of Abundance!”
Pastor A. Glenn Brady