July 29, 2026

6 days ago
2 min read

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PASTOR'S PEN

From the desk of Pastor Paul

On the weekend I asked the question, what would happen if each of us spent an hour in preparation—prayer and worship—before coming to the service? I was visiting with Stephanie this morning about how genuine worship plows the ground of our hearts. When there isn't a spirit of worship, it often takes a little while to get into the Word because the ground still needs to be cultivated.

A couple of weeks ago, I taught on our responsibility to prepare good soil. Heart preparation before we come would help ensure that each of us arrives with good soil, allowing both the worship and the Word to fall on hearts that are already prepared.

I also believe people would arrive spiritually awake rather than spiritually distracted. Instead of needing twenty minutes to "warm up," our hearts would already be attentive to God.

Worship would become an overflow instead of an introduction. Too often, corporate worship begins with people trying to transition from the busyness of everyday life into the presence of God. But if we had already spent an hour with Him, the service would begin with hearts that are already engaged. The songs would no longer simply invite us into worship; they would become the continuation of worship. As we fix our eyes on the character and greatness of God, the songs would give birth to greater obedience and enlarge our faith.

We would gather expecting God to speak, heal, convict, encourage, and save.

After all, faith often grows where prayer has prepared the ground.

Will you join me? See you this weekend

Saturday night - 5:30

Sunday morning - 9:30

🔗Message Notes (when available)

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The Last 100 Days—The Time is Now!

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As we work to finish this building project well, it is important to remember that this is about more than construction. We are building a place for ministry, worship, discipleship, healing, and generations yet to come. And every person has a part in that story.

Some may give substantially, others less; the amount does not matter. Others may pray faithfully. Some may serve quietly behind the scenes. Others may encourage when weariness sets in.

God has uniquely placed gifts, resources, encouragement, and purpose within each person. When we all bring our piece, the picture begins to come together in a way that reflects His glory and His faithfulness.

As we continue moving forward together, may we remember this: no role is too small, no gift is insignificant, and no act of obedience goes unnoticed by God.

Every piece matters.

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