We’d love to see you this week at America’s Keswick. Dr. Roger Willmore is speaking Sunday night through Thursday night, and Dr. Dino Perdrone is speaking Monday – Thursday morning. You can also watch live at: www.americaskeswick.org. We’d love to see you. Check out our website or call 800-453-7942 for more information.

The Journey

“And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. No, but behold, after me one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.” John the Baptist

As I continue to walk with God, I am beginning to understand that everyone is ata different stage in their walks: beginning with the new believers, to a growing disciples, to mature Christians, and finally Church leaders. I believe that if we can locate and operate in our positions, this journey with Lord would look a lot different.

This journey in grace is in fact that, a journey. As a new believer or newcomer, there are some essentials that establish our foundation, like baptism and joining a beginner’s bible study. These help us sort through fundamental truths that for many are difficult to comprehend even as we mature. How much thencan we really expect from new believers? However, as we grow, there should be some bearing fruit or leveling upward, provided we develop habits and disciplines that help us grow.

One way is to stay active by attending Sunday morning worship service. The level of teaching and learning during this activity should cultivate to a deeper comprehension of God and His Word. For me, accountability partners were huge in my walk, they consulted with each other to assist me, and poured life in me. This is where my active service started, and I began to share my faith. Ultimately, as we develop in our walks, believers ought to persevere to become leadersand mature Christians. That is the goal, I believe.  Mature believers should have some type of leadership role in the body, yet others disagree. How does a mature believer, become a leader in the church? By faithfulness!True leaders are faithful, and believe in the ministry.

The ministry leaders are the individuals who are on the first line of defense. Pastors, elders, youth leaders, deacons, worship leaders, etc… However, this group of folks can vary between different denominational structures. In general, every church leader should regard the great commission for not only lost souls, but also that it is a command from the Lord Jesus Christ. Christian leaders are usually equipped to teach advanced workshops and attend them for further training.

And let us not forget prayer. Every leader is required to have deep prayer life.  This is the connection to victory.

This journey in grace looks different for all, but we are all somewhere within these realms. John the Baptist knew his role in the kingdom work. If we each can recognize where we are in the journey and focus on getting to the next level, it allows the body of Christ to function harmoniously. Where are you? Juan Mendez is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and serves full-time at America’s Keswick

Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 120-132

Think About This: On this side of the cross misery persists, but the scales are tipped in favor of joy. —Ed Welch

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: Oh, what joy for those who disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty! Psalm 32:1-2