Obviously I love the Bible. I love to read it, teach it and watch as its truths transform lives. I hear reports every week of this happening. They never get old. I never tire of hearing how God is using the teaching of His Word to build people up. The picture above is of Billy Graham's preaching Bible that he used in many of his crusades. I think of the lives that have been reached as God's servant preached from this book! But as a pastor I recognize that there's a whole lot more to it than just the initial proclamation that brings men and women to Christ. I was reading this morning in Colossians 1 the words of Paul, "Whom (Christ) we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which works in me mightily." (Col. 1:28-29) This truth is where I spend most of my life and my time. My life's goal could be summed up in these two verses. The reason I spend hours studying and laboring over His Word is so that I can be equipped to both "preach" and "teach", winning men and women to Christ and then instructing them towards maturity. When I read these two verses this morning they rekindled in me a renewed sense of purpose. I LOVE what I get to do as a pastor!
4 comments:
Well, we definitely appreciate all that time that you labor studying the word. We know that we can get solid biblical teaching from you each week. Your messages are challenging and encouraging, and completely bible-based. Thank you for that.
Doug and Amanda,
Thanks and God bless you guys and your input. So where was that picture taken on your profile? Nice waterfall.
Skip
Skip,
As one who's known you and Lenya for many years both "up close & personal" and also from the crowd...I have to say your commitment and Lenya's commitment to being students and teachers of His Word is something I don't take for granted and I appreciate! I know how much work you put into it. Your love for all of us, your dedication to studying and exhorting/teaching us, and your vision for this church and its ministries beyond has impacted my life, and our family's life in so many ways over the years. I can't thank you & Lenya enough! Just thought I'd put my 2 cents in and say it on your blog. BTW I love reading your blog...loads of fun & interesting always! I'm not one for writing comments, but wanted to add to this particular post.
Peg
Peg,
With those pink flamingos in your picture, I'd say the Valley Heads have arrived! God bless you and I appreciate your sweet comments.
Skip
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