Again I want to commend all of you for what you are doing...

 ...for Missions 2023. Psalm 133:1 (NKJV) “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” 

1. Unity. I see something here that is definitely relevant to Life Church, to our vision, our passion, and our mission. All of you hear me speak of Holy Spirit and missions all the time. Unity magnifies this. Acts 2:1 (NKJV) ^“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.” They were in unity in their obedience to God. Jesus had told them to go to Jerusalem and to wait there until they were endued with power from on high. They were in unity with their gathering together where Jesus told them to go and wait. None of the 120 said we can pray just as well at home. They were in unity in their obedience, in their gathering where Jesus told them (church), and they were also in unity in what they were doing. Worship. I hope you see it before I say it…where there is good and pleasant unity God pours out His Spirit in abundance. There the Lord commands blessings!

2. Faithfulness. To be faithful is to be reliable, steadfast and unwavering. Loyal consistent practice no matter what is going on in our lives. Just a warning from a pastor who loves you very much. If you give in to the temptation backing away with attendance, giving, or loyalty is a slippery slope leading always to the bottom…the pit. Matthew 25:21 (NLT2) “The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’ We see celebration! What a blessing! We see commitment! Faithfulness leads to praise from Jesus! Faithfulness leads to commendation by Jesus. Again, when we are faithful with our obedience, calling, tithe, and with our missions (FP) God is very pleased! Jesus says, I will give you many more responsibilities.

3. Generosity. I had a pastor ask me…why do I believe Life Church is so blessed and so generous. Lots of wealthy people? Nope, just generous people. Number 4 in our Distinctives as a church is creating an atmosphere of generous giving. Why? We have learned God will bless us individually and corporately when we are generous. Here’s the best reason: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NKJV) ^“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Isaiah 32:8 (NLT2) ⁸ But generous people plan to do what is generous, and they stand firm in their generosity.” As we are in good and pleasant unity, as we are a church filled with faithful loving people, filled with Holy Spirit. God will command His blessings over us! It works! A Kingdom Builder!