How have you experienced God?
-thru other perspectives
-thru prayer in conversation
-thru different prayer styles
We have been in conversation with God and with one another.
We have listened
We have not been about agendas
We have not tried to fix what is broken
We are trying to listen for our direction from God, for a future that God desires
We have kept prayer journals (well most of us have).
Our reoccurring themes:
-openness, we need to be an open church- welcoming of people of all differences, backgrounds, ages, culture, lifestyles, economic status, sick etc… (mystery, not knowing what will happen)
-inclusive, we should strive to include people in all facets of our church- operation, fun, devotions, classes, socials, life, missions, joys & sorrows, give a voice to those that do not have one.
-acceptance, we should strive to be like God and accept people where they are- we should seek to be understanding and compassionate, less judgmental, accepting of change, we should try to break down barriers and gain understanding, we should do away with assumptions and accusations.
-unity of purpose, closer to God
-listening, being still, watching and observing
-close generational gaps
-reconciliation
-pray more first
-guidance (Mark 1:35), pray for believers (John 17:20-21), pray in praise (Luke 10:21), pray in thanksgiving (Mark 14:22), pray with reverent submission (Matthew 26:39).
Stressors: boredom, finances, traditions, fear of change, business, transition of leaders, generational gaps, control seekers, security/insecurity, self centeredness, lack of faith.
Dreams: prayer triplets, raising belief in faith in Gid, trust in God, mission trips, serving together, improving music ministry, attitude of appreciation, thankfulness, build trust among church body, humility-practicing it, Bible study.
Psalm 84:5
Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.
God’s main call is to a restored relationship and then to close fellowship with Him. (John 14:6)
God has a special and unique purpose and calling for your life (Jeremiah 29:11)
God places a desire and passion in our hearts to do the things He calls us to do (Phil. 2:13)
God gives spiritual gifts to equip you for your calling (list of spiritual gifts)
God’s presence & power will always be with you when He calls you (Acts 13:2, Exodus 3&4)
There are some things that God calls all Christians to do (Matthew 4:19; 28:18-20)
I think that we are all called as witnesses for Christ. That we are to witness based on our own experiences- this is what makes us experts in our own experiences and others will connect with us thorugh that and thus with God. Also he will prepare us and give us the power to be able to do these things. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth. After He said this, He was taken up before their very eyes and a cloud hid Him from their sight”. Acts 1:8-9
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