HAPPY THANKSGIVING -- FAMILY!

On Sunday, I shared how much I brag about MY CHURCH and I really do mean it. I have never been around a more loving and caring group of people. That includes how they treat me, Stephanie, my family, as well as how they treat others. I AM THANKFUL FOR THEM. 

WELL, THANKSGIVING IS HERE! Stephanie is working on the Turkey, pies, etc. and I am awaiting family. This is just the PRACTICE ROUND of Thanksgiving. Our large gathering is TOMORROW. All but one (I think!) I cannot wait. 

I am overwhelmed with THANKSGIVING for STEPHANIE, MY FAMILY, and MY CHURCH FAMILY. That church family also includes those who have been in our fellowship while we served CMA, in Bluffton, our DISCIPLESHIP GROUP MEMBERS and those who are yet to come! I am PRAISING GOD for each of them today. 

I know of some facing hardship medically, financially, relationally, mentally and spiritually. I love their faithfulness and endurance. It often reminds me of the trials faced by the early church. Paul thought the same thing about the CHURCH AT THESSALONICA.

"Dear brothers and sisters, we can't help. but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing. We proudly tell God's other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering. And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his kingdom, for which you are suffering. In his justice he will pay back those who persecute you." (2 Thessalonians 1:3-6, NLT)

Challenges and hardships are inevitable, but they also provide opportunities for growth and deeper community. The Thessalonian church demonstrated resilience and faith in the face of persecution, serving as a testament to their love and commitment to Christ. In our struggles, we too can lean on our community of believers for support. Sharing our burdens and victories strengthens our faith and encourages others. Remember, you are not alone; God has placed people in your life to walk with you through every trial. 

I am so thankful that I have a church that I can lean on, that leans on each other, and will allow the community to lean upon us at the same time. Sharing life together is a cause for great joy and thanksgiving. 

PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW. PRAISE HIM ALL CREATURES HERE BELOW. PRAISE HIM ABOVE YE HEAVENLY HOSTS. PRAISE FATHER, SON, and HOLY GHOST! AMEN!

LORD, THANK YOU for a wonderful community of believers that has ALWAYS surrounded me and my family. HELP me be a source of strength and encouragement for others. AMEN!

What challenges are you facing, and how can your faith community support you in overcoming them?

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If you haven't repented of your sin, accepted what Jesus did for you on the cross, dying for your sins, or if you have not committed your life to Jesus, TODAY could be that day. give your life to the Lord. 

"because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." (Romans 10:9-10, ESV)

If you gave your life to Jesus today, text the word "faith" to (765)-896-4302 and we will follow up with material for you and join you in your walk of faith!