Last year in a conversation a statment was made that continued to plague me, 'If I didn't know so and so I wouldn't even know y'all's church was there.' This statement was not reflective on the people, just more on our location. Providence is situated about a mile to a mile and a half off two well traveled roads.
After that statement was made I continued to pray about it not real sure what needed to be done or even how to do anything...then a couple months later I attended The Gathering in Jacksonville Fl. It was there things began to go into motion. Now I have attended many meetings only to leave very cynical (not sure I spelled it right) but there was something different about this one. God began confirming things He had laid upon my heart over the last couple of years.
How does this fit together? I left there with one thought, how to turn imagination into reality that included how Providence could make a greater impact on our community...then God began answering questions. One night I was sitting on the couch and received a text from a friend wanting to know if we'd be interesting in being a potential site for Laurel University in High Point to launch a Rockingham County Campus. I text back I'd love to talk about it...God was sending me into shock...I approached the Deacons they became very excited about the possiblities. I approached the local church they too were excited about the possibilities...what better way to get the word out about Providence Baptist Church...there is the potential for all kinds of advertisment at minimal cost to the church...this opportunity will be one that is unique to our community. In the process I have already met many people I otherwise wouldn't have and who knows where God will take us from here.
What this did besides send me into shock was grow my amazement about God. While creating a solution to a question that plagued me it has also given me the confidence to continue dreaming. I even began taking a a writing pad with me just in case I have a thought. I even have a page I call my 'Crazy Dreams' page. These are things that seem outrageous but I am willing to see what God can do.
My message is for all people but for ministers who find themselves in small pastorates...continue dreaming...continue listening to God. No matter how small the congregation God can do big things. Just as we have been created by God for a purpose...your church has been created by God for a purpose...a church in motion can't be stopped...in those times when things seem difficult don't turn and run looking for greener pastures keep watering the pasture you are in with the Truth that knows no impossibilites.
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