First Month Update We have had a very interesting introduction to our new ministry in Marshall. The day that we arrived, we were told that we would not be able to close on our new home for at 3-5 days. Those 3-5 days have turned into 5 weeks, and now 8 weeks more until we could expect an answer. We praise the Lord that, as of April 27th, we will close on a new place here in town. Other than that distraction, we have had a fruitful time here in Marshall thus far. We have been meeting each week on Sunday afternoon for some strategy sessions, on Tuesday (EARLY) morning for Men's Bible study and prayer, and on Wednesday nights for Bible study and prayer. On Wednesday night in particular, we have seen a sea of new faces each week, which is encouraging. We are studying 1John, looking for the evidences of our faith. It has been a great time of Biblical fellowship. Personally, I have spent a great deal of time in public trying to meet people and get known around town. I have joined the Ministerial Association, as well as the Chamber of Commerce, the golf club, and the YMCA. All have afforded great opportunities to meet people here in town, some who are in Christ, and many who are not (yet). There are also great opportunities at the local University, the jail, and the hospital here in town. I have made contacts at the local Adult Community Center, and we were invited to a great brunch there. I have found that the local schools are very open to my visits, and we have a core member on staff at the Middle School as well. Additionally, the local paper has published a couple of my articles about why we are planting the church here. All of this to say that God has provided many open doors and many God-appointments that hopefully will bear fruit. Our children are settled into school, and have made some friends. Eddie has become quite the 'Andrew'; handing out tracts and inviting kids over to the house, where I interview them to see if they are in Christ. John and Grace have not had friends over yet, but all three are involved in a local youth group which is very active, and they are making friends there. Stewart is involved in AWANA at the same church. The pastor there has opened his doors to us, and though they are a different denomination, they are supporting our plant by helping with the kids, and they have expressed a desire to pray over us; commissioning and commending us as we launch. I am thankful for this kind of support from a couple of local churches that I have seen thus far. Please continue to pray for this church plant. We are battling against hidden forces that have aligned themselves against us. We know that good things are happening because of the frequent arrows that we get from the enemy. But we know that Jesus in us is greater than Satan who is in the world and the world system. As we walk in the armor of God, nothing can penetrate or keep our eyes off of the prize. We know that as we are faithful, and as we are obedient to His direction, that God the Holy Spirit will go before us and show us 'great and mighty things, which we know not' (Jer 33:3)
Marshall Prayer Requests: *That we would glorify God in all that we do. *That the April 22nd meeting would be productive *That Christ would be seen in us. *That our present ministries would be effective.*That we would respond to daily God appointments. *That the evangelism class would produce bold disciples ready to spread the Gospel *That we would be faithful and bold in sharing our faith. *That the launch team would be in one accord. *That we would raise local financial support
Marshall Praises That we have a new home! That we have a great team! That we have been able to reach people here already! That we have been able to get involved in this community! For support of local pastors! That we are under attack (it means we are rattling Satan's cages) For great prayer warriors (all over the country!) For your support!
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