Why?
Why will God bless the ministry of Covenant Church? Why in the midst of national/international crises can we trust for a season of revival and growth?
Do we expect blessings because of our being the Elder Brother of the Prodigal Son? Do we think our righteousness makes us better?
No. We are not wrapping ourselves in self-righteousness. We are resolving to be obedient to Our Lord because of His grace in our lives. We are following Jesus because we have been saved by His marvelous grace. We desire with humility to find our younger brother who has erred and welcome him back to the family.
1. We have not followed fads and fashions.
2. We have remained true to teach and preach the Word of God.
3. We have cared for the poor and less fortunate (Isaiah 58:10).
4. We have been faithful in fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19,20).
5. We have been faithful in tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:10).
6. We have been hands extended to the larger community.
7. We have sought to be servants.
8. We have exalted Christ.
9. We have not ceased to preach the gospel of the cross.
King Hezekiah came to the throne age 25. King Ahaz had polluted the House of the Lord. Hezekiah repaired the doors, had trash carried out, had holy vessels sanctified, and prepared for worship. The king tithed and gave offerings. The people tithed and gave offerings. They removed from among themselves altars and incense to idols. "And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, in the law and in the commandment, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart. So he prospered (II Chronicles 31:21)."
In the last two Sundays we have baptized in water nine persons. At the present time about 30 persons are in orientation for membership. I remember no time in my life that so many people have come to ask to become members. It is an indication of spiritual hunger and a desire to be part of the Body of Christ. While the world is seeking independency and does not want to be held accountable, there is a hunger among God's people to draw closer together to the Body (Hebrews 10:25).
I am delighted to share that Deacons in New Testament character are stepping forward to lead different cultures. We are seeing break-through with excellent leaders who are becoming responsible to evangelize and minister among their own people. This is very encouraging.
We have extended invitations to a number of persons to consider becoming deacons. We trust for excellent response and new ordinations.
Yesterday, the Elders met for almost three hours. We committed to a month of fasting and praying (Matthew 17:21). Join with us as we seek God with our whole heart. Let us learn from Hezekiah as he repaired the doors to the house of the Lord, cleaned out the trash, sanctified holy vessels, offered burnt offerings for repentance, and brought tithes and freewill offerings to God.
Will you join with us in a season of turning our hearts to God?
Fast and pray with us.
God honors those who honor him. We do not serve our Lord asking for material blessings as the first order. Our hearts are yearning to see souls saved (Proverbs 11:30b), families healed, churches brought together in unity, disciples formed, and revival aflame.
This is God's will. We hunger for God's will. Obedience in a loving relationship with God and others yields divine favor.
Much love
Pastor Bare
Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also